If you’ve ever caught your dog snacking on their own poo – yep, we said it – you’re not alone. As gross as it seems to us, it’s a surprisingly common behaviour in dogs. But why on earth do they do it?
Let’s dig into the reasons behind this unappetising habit, from instinct and diet to boredom and health concerns, and explore ways to address it.
Why do dogs do it?
First things first: your dog isn’t just being weird (well, maybe a little). Poo-eating – otherwise known as coprophagia – is normal, especially in puppies and nursing mums who instinctively clean up their den. Most pups grow out of it, but some dogs keep the habit.
A study by researchers from the University of California-Davis, found that one in four dogs (24%) has dabbled in poo-eating at some point. So, if you thought your dog was the only one, rest assured they’re in questionable company.
Your dog’s diet can play a big role in this habit. If your dog isn’t getting the right nutrients, they might turn to their own faeces, or the faeces of other animals. Hungry dogs are more likely to eat poo. Choose a premium balanced diet and make sure it’s suited to your dog’s breed, age and weight. Puppies in particular need a nutrient-dense diet. Your vet will be able to recommend a suitable diet for your dog.
Medical causes
Medical problems that result in a decrease in the absorption of nutrients, cause a gastrointestinal upset or increase the appeal of a dog’s poo could be behind the behaviour. Some possible medical causes Include:
- Enzyme deficiencies
- Diabetes, Cushing’s disease or Thyroid disease
- Some medications, particularly steroids
Behavioural causes
Boredom and stress are other big culprits. A dog left alone too long, or one without enough mental stimulation, might resort to eating their own poo just to pass the time (gross, but understandable). Plenty of exercise and interactive toys can help keep their minds and mouths occupied.
Why does my dog eat cat poo?
Have you noticed that your dog eats the poo of cats and other animals? Dogs may eat the poo of other animals as scavenging behaviour. It’s not uncommon for dogs to steal food from humans, eat out of garbage bins or eat non-food items that we consider strange and unsanitary. Often, dogs are attracted to the smell, texture and taste of foods – regardless of whether we consider them to be appropriate or not.
Is eating poo harmful?
The short answer? Sometime yes, sometimes no.
If your dog is just recycling their own poo, the main risk is your dignity and their breath. But if they’re dining on other animals’ droppings, they could be exposing themselves to parasites or viruses. Worms, bacteria and even serious illnesses can be transmitted this way. So, while the behaviour itself isn’t always dangerous, it’s worth keeping an eye on what’s going in your dog’s mouth.
How do I stop my dog from eating poo?
Once you have identified the probable cause – diet, illness, boredom – you can focus on preventing the behaviour.
- Cut off access. The easiest fix? Clean up poo immediately so they don’t get the chance to eat it. Keep cat litter trays out of reach and watch them closely on walks.
- Interrupt and distract. If your dog starts showing interest in poo, redirect them with a treat, a toy or a command. A firm “leave it” can work wonders.
- Tackle boredom and stress. More exercise, engaging toys and puzzle feeders can help. If stress is a trigger, speak to your vet about possible solutions.
- Check their diet. If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, adjust their food or add supplements. Your vet can help determine what’s missing.
Veterinarian Dr Nick Emerton share his advice:
“To help break the habit, try adding a small amount of Tabasco or chilli flakes to a strategically placed poo, this can make it far less tempting. You can also add pumpkin (boiled skin or canned) to your dog’s evening meal to make their poo taste bitter and unappealing. There are also commercial powders available that are designed to make poo taste unappealing and help curb this behaviour.”
The wrap-up
Eating poo might be a dog’s idea of fine dining, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Whether it’s boredom, diet or just a quirk, there are ways to manage and reduce the habit. Keep their environment clean, give them plenty of stimulation, and when in doubt, get your vet’s advice.
