If you’ve ever caught your dog eating their own poop, you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of the most common — and most frustrating — behaviors dog owners deal with. But why does it happen? And what can you do to stop it?
Let’s break it down.
1. It’s More Common Than You Think
The technical term for poop-eating is coprophagia (pronounced koh-pro-fay-jee-uh). Studies show that about 1 in 6 dogs do it regularly. Puppies are more likely to try it, but adult dogs can do it too.
2. Possible Reasons Dogs Eat Poop
There are a few main causes — some behavioral, some medical:
🦴 Nutritional Deficiency
Sometimes dogs eat poop if their diet lacks certain nutrients or digestive enzymes. If food isn’t being fully digested, their stool may still contain appealing smells or nutrients.
💩 Clean-Up Instinct
Mother dogs often eat their puppies’ poop to keep the den clean and hide scents from predators. Some dogs keep this habit, especially if they were raised in cramped or dirty environments.
🧠 Boredom or Anxiety
Dogs left alone for long periods, or those under stress, might eat poop out of boredom or nervousness — similar to how some people bite their nails.
🐕 Attention-Seeking
If your dog notices you react strongly (even negatively), they might repeat the behavior just to get your attention.
🚽 House-Training Mistakes
Puppies sometimes eat poop to “hide the evidence” after an accident, especially if they’ve been scolded for it before.
⚕️ Medical Causes
Certain health problems like diabetes, parasites, or poor absorption can increase appetite or change stool composition. It’s worth checking with a vet if it happens often.
3. How to Stop It
✅ Pick up poop quickly — don’t give them the chance.
🥦 Feed a balanced diet with good-quality food and possibly enzyme supplements (ask your vet).
🚶 Increase exercise and play to reduce boredom.
🙅 Avoid punishment — it can make the behavior worse.
🦴 Try deterrent products — some sprays or food additives make poop taste bad to dogs (even worse than usual!).
4. When to See a Vet
If your dog suddenly starts eating poop, or does it excessively, get a vet check. It could be linked to digestive issues, nutrient deficiency, or an underlying health condition.
🐾 Final Thoughts
As gross as it seems, poop-eating is a natural but fixable behavior. With a little patience, good diet, and consistent training, most dogs grow out of it — or stop doing it altogether.