Effective Ways to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop
Coprophagia, or stool eating, is a surprisingly common behavioral issue in dogs. While unpleasant, this behavior can stem from a variety of normal and abnormal reasons—ranging from developmental stages to medical conditions or stress. Fortunately, pet owners can take several science-backed steps to discourage this unwanted habit.
Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?
Understanding the root cause of coprophagia is the first step toward stopping it. Some of the most common explanations include:
- Puppy behavior and maternal instincts: Puppies may mimic their mother’s behavior or explore stool out of curiosity. Most grow out of it.
- Instinctual behavior from ancestral roots: Dogs’ wild ancestors, like wolves, may have eaten feces to keep their dens clean and avoid parasites.
- Nutrition and hunger: Dogs lacking proper nutrition or those on poor diets may look for alternative nutrient sources like stool.
- Medical conditions: Diseases like diabetes, Cushing’s, thyroid issues, GI problems, and parasites can increase this behavior.
- Stress and anxiety: Dogs facing stress, confinement, or negative training may engage in this as a coping activity.
- Boredom or neglect: A dog left alone too long or lacking stimulation might eat poop simply because there's nothing else to do.
- Attention-seeking: Any reaction from an owner—even negative—can encourage repetition if the dog connects it to receiving attention.
Health Risks of Eating Poop
Though it may not seem dangerous initially, ingesting feces can lead to health issues such as:
- Internal parasite infections (e.g., hookworms, roundworms)
- Bacterial or viral illnesses from contaminated feces
- Exposure to toxins if stool contains medications like in horse manure
- Human health concerns via zoonotic disease transmission
How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop
Tackling this behavior involves a mix of rule-outs, training, and lifestyle adjustments. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Visit Your Vet: Rule out medical conditions, parasites, and dietary deficiencies. Treat any underlying health problems early.
- Feed a High-Quality Diet: Ensure your dog receives well-balanced, properly portioned nutrition. Avoid irregular feeding patterns.
- Clean Up Promptly: Scoop feces immediately in your yard and during walks. This removes the temptation.
- Limit Access to Other Animals’ Waste: Keep litter boxes away and inaccessible. Use pet gates, lidded boxes, or elevated setups.
- Supervise Outdoors: Always supervise potty time, especially with habitual eaters. Use commands like “leave it.”
- Reward Good Behavior: Praise and use high-value treats when your dog ignores feces or obeys redirection commands.
- Provide Enrichment: Add toys, puzzles, exercise, and stimulation to a dog’s routine to reduce boredom and stress.
- Avoid Punishment: Punishment reinforces stress and can worsen the problem. Use calm, consistent training instead.
- Try Special Products: Some supplements—designed to make poop taste unpleasant—are available, but speak to your vet before trying them. Probiotics may help digestive health but don’t always prevent stool eating.
- Manage Special Cases: If living with sick or incontinent pets, use separation barriers and prompt cleanups to minimize exposure.
Guidance for Puppies
- Stick to a regular schedule for potty breaks
- Clean accidents immediately to prevent access
- Use appropriately sized crates to discourage defecating inside
- Reward outdoor elimination with praise and treats
- Avoid punishment during house-training—it can cause anxiety
Dealing with Litter Box-Lovers
- Use baby gates or barriers to restrict access to litter boxes
- Clean cat boxes frequently, ideally after each use
- Train your dog to stay away using consistent commands
When to Seek Expert Help
If all approaches fail, or if the problem persists despite interventions, consult a veterinary behaviorist. Behavioral modification programs tailored to your dog’s needs can yield lasting change. Basket muzzles may also be advised during training, but only with professional guidance.
Final Advice for Pet Owners
Managing coprophagia requires patience and consistency. Avoid overreacting and focus on prevention and redirection. If your dog suddenly starts eating stool and shows signs like weight loss, fatigue, or vomiting, contact your veterinarian immediately.
With commitment and a comprehensive approach, most dogs can be taught to leave this habit behind and lead healthy, happy lives.
