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If you find your dog eating poop, don’t fret! Although it may seem bizarre, this is something many pet parents encounter in both puppies and adult dogs. This puzzling behavior makes folks wonder, “why is my dog eating poop?”
Coprophagia, or dogs eating feces, is a very common behavior that can be corrected. There are a variety of both behavioral and physiological reasons that can cause this habit.
1. Learned Behavior
Mother dogs will often eat their puppies’ feces to keep the “den” clean, and this is also a survival instinct to get rid of smells that could attract predators. Puppies observe this behavior and often copy it. When the puppies are old enough to find their own food and leave the nest, mothers will often stop eating their puppies' poop.
2. Issues with Digestion
Sometimes, dogs dine on a poo poo platter because they are having digestion issues. If a food is low in digestible nutrients, it will come out tasting pretty much the same as when your dog initially consumed it. A food that assists with digestion, like Top That Tummy Meal Enhancer, can help prevent this. It’s crucial to give your dog the right food as early as possible to curb this behavior and ensure proper digestion. Our "Food Finder" can help determine what type of food is best for them.
3. Boredom or Stress
If dogs or puppies are left alone for long periods or are under stress in a new environment, they will sometimes play with or consume their feces. Dogs should not be reprimanded for this behavior, as it will only cause further stress. Try to create a calming environment for your pup, and if you’re leaving for the day, provide them with toys to play with or activities to keep them occupied.
4. Health Problems
If this is new behavior for your dog, you should consult with your vet to rule out physiological problems like:
Although this behavior may be disturbing to you, keep in mind this is very common in both puppies and adult dogs. While eating their poop is harmless, consuming that of other animals may cause health problems if the stool is contaminated with parasites, viruses, or toxins.
In most cases, this crappy behavior will fade before the puppy is about nine months old. With patience and the proper training and distractions, you can stop this habit! Check out our list of other items that your dog shouldn’t be eating.