This article was approved by Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
Bringing a puppy into your life is filled with some head-scratching dog behaviors—like when your adorable furball decides to snack on something less than appetizing, poop.
Known scientifically as coprophagia, dogs eating poop—including their own poop—is more common than you might think.
Let’s dive into why dogs engage in this behavior, and more importantly, how you stop your pup from eating poo between giving you kisses.
Why do dogs eat poop?
There are several reasons that dogs eat poop. Here are some of the most common causes:
Mimicking mother dogs
One of the possible reasons puppies eat their own poop is because they are mimicking their mother dog, who in the wild would eat their puppies’ feces to keep the den clean and avoid attracting predators. This instinctual behavior may linger in young puppies, leading them to snack on droppings.
Poor digestion
Sometimes, the problem lies within. Poor digestion—caused by issues like issues like enzyme deficiencies or malabsorption—can leave undigested food in the stool, making it attractive to dogs. If your puppy’s diet isn’t formulated correctly, it might prompt them to turn to poop as a source of missing nutrients.
Nutritional deficiencies
A puppy might explore different snacks, including poo, if they’re not receiving adequate nutrients from their dog food. A dietary deficiency can make them instinctively seek out sources of missing elements, sometimes leading them to their own or others’ waste.
Boredom and stress
For puppies, boredom can lead to destructive behaviors, including eating feces. Stress or anxiety, such as separation anxiety when left at home alone, can also be factors.
Attention-seeking behavior
Puppies love attention, and some have learned that eating poop gets a reaction from their owners. Even if it’s negative attention, it’s still attention. This attention-seeking behavior can reinforce the act, especially if your puppy is looking to get a rise out of you.
Avoiding punishment
Past experiences of being scolded during potty training might lead puppies to eat their own poop to avoid getting into trouble. They may think getting rid of the evidence will keep them safe from punishment.
Medical issues
Besides poor digestion, health conditions such as intestinal parasites, diabetes, or thyroid issues could drive dogs to eat poop as they try to satisfy a craving caused by these underlying issues.
How do I stop my dog from eating poop?
Luckily for us, most dogs outgrow this behavior as they mature. But there are still some ways to help prevent coprophagia in puppies, including:
- Consult your veterinarian: Your first step should be a visit to your vet to rule out any potential health concerns. A vet can detect issues like intestinal parasites or malabsorption, offering medical solutions or dietary changes to address the problem.
- Increase supervision and hygiene: Keeping a close eye on your puppy and maintaining cleanliness can decrease opportunities for snacking on droppings. Regularly clean up after your dog and secure the cat litter box if your puppy is snacking on cat poop.
- Training and positive reinforcement: Engage in dog training to teach commands like “leave it” or “come.” Positive reinforcement with treats and praise helps redirect their attention and encourages better behavior. Avoid using punishment, which can exacerbate anxiety and worsen the issue.
- Exercise and mental stimulation: Provide ample exercise and mental stimulation through toys, games, and interaction. Enrichment activities reduce boredom and help curtail poop-eating tendencies by keeping your puppy engaged and satisfied.
- Use deterrents: There are safe commercial products available that make feces taste unpleasant to dogs— like For-Bid or NaturVet Coprophagia Deterrent. Using these deterrents, in combination with veterinary guidance, can discourage the behavior over time.
When to visit the vet
If it seems that your puppy is experiencing behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety or restlessness, and their poo-eating habits persist despite trying various strategies like distraction or alternative training methods, it’s important to consider seeking professional help. Additionally, if you notice any signs of a health issue—such as changes in appetite, lethargy, or unusual stool appearance—consulting with a veterinarian can provide valuable insights and ensure your furry friend receives the appropriate care and guidance.
Before we go…
Navigating the quirks of puppyhood can be challenging, but understanding and addressing behaviors like coprophagia can help you build a stronger bond with your furry friend. Remember, patience and consistency are key.
Meanwhile, getting pet insurance is a proactive move to ensure your puppy receives the best care possible throughout their life, without breaking the bank. Pet insurance can help cover a variety of your pup’s medical expenses, from routine vet visits to unexpected emergencies, giving you peace of mind.
Did you know that at Lemonade pet insurance you can cover your pup from the time they’re two months old?
Click below to start your free quote.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
