My Dog Eats Poop – Why They Do It and How to Stop Coprophagia
Coprophagia—eating feces—is one of the most disgusting habits a dog can develop. It makes you cringe, it’s a health risk, and it’s surprisingly common. About 23% of dogs have been caught in the act at least once.
The good news is that coprophagia is usually fixable once you understand the cause. Let’s dig in.
Medical Reasons for Poop Eating
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), intestinal parasites, malabsorption syndromes, and nutrient deficiencies can all drive coprophagia. A vet check is step one.
Some dogs eat poop simply because their diet is too low in fiber, or their food isn’t being fully absorbed. Adding fiber or switching to a more digestible food can help.
Behavioral Causes
Puppies often eat poop as part of exploring their environment—most outgrow it. Adult dogs may eat poop out of boredom, stress, or because they learned it from their mother (who cleans up puppies’ waste by eating it).
Dogs who are punished for house-training accidents may eat their own feces to hide the evidence. This is one more reason punishment-based house training backfires.
Practical Solutions That Work
Pick up immediately. If there’s no poop to eat, the habit can’t be reinforced.
dd a coprophagia deterrent to your dog’s food (products like For-Bid or natural deterrents like pumpkin). These make the feces taste worse.
Increase exercise and mental enrichment. Bored dogs are poop eaters.
Teach a reliable "leave it" cue. Practice with treats first, then apply it to poop on walks.
When to See the Vet
If coprophagia started suddenly, is accompanied by weight loss, vomiting, or diarrhea, or if your dog seems obsessed with eating feces, schedule a vet visit. Bloodwork and a fecal exam can rule out medical causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is coprophagia dangerous?
Yes. Feces can contain parasites (giardia, roundworms, hookworms), bacteria (salmonella, E. coli), and viruses (parvovirus). Dogs who eat other animals’ feces are at even higher risk.
Do poop-eating products actually work?
Results vary. Some dogs are deterred by the taste additives; others don’t care. They work best when combined with immediate cleanup and training.
Will my dog grow out of coprophagia?
Puppies often do, but adult dogs rarely stop without intervention. If you don’t address the underlying cause, the habit tends to persist.
Veterinary Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for health concerns regarding your pet.