"Why does my dog eat poop?" It's not an unusual question for pet parents.
If your dog sees his waste as a meal, it's natural to be confused—and a little grossed out as you wonder what sparked his interest. As strange as this behavior may seem to you, however, it's actually quite normal. "Coprophagia" is the act of eating feces, and it's a common behavior for many animals, particularly dogs. Here are a few explanations:
Growing Dogs Are Curious
Although we don't know exactly why your pooch wants to try dining on another animal's excrement, it could just be a matter of discovery. Your poop-eating-pup could be attracted to the strong scent. Maybe he can smell the food previously ingested. There may be no specific reason your dog is feeding on feces other than sheer curiosity, and dogs explore the world around them with their noses and mouths.
Mother Pups Clean Their Babies
A dog who has just given birth to a new litter of puppies will lick her offspring to clean and nurture them as they adjust to their environment. While licking, the mother will inevitably ingest her pups' feces. This behavior is normal and should correct itself once the puppies begin caring for themselves.
Diet Deficiencies
"He isn't especially curious nor is he a parent, so why does my dog eat poop then?" Depending on the circumstances, it may be because of malnutrition. It's believed that dogs who have inadequate diets, deficient of vitamins and minerals, eat the feces of another animal to compensate. But if your dog is eating a well-balanced dog food like Hill's Science Diet, and his veterinarian has given him a clear bill of health, malnutrition is probably not the cause of your dog's interest in poop. It's still a good idea to keep your vet in the loop with what's going on with your pup, so if it's a new behavior, it's worth a call to your vet to check in.
Fear May Cause Your Dog to Do Strange Things
Have you punished your dog many times for pooping in a place he wasn't supposed to, such as your bedroom? If your dog is fearful of the consequences after going number-two, he may begin to eat his poop to hide the evidence. In fact, if this happens regularly, your dog may develop a compulsion to continue seeking feces to ingest. The best way to curb this behavior is proper potty training. Also, dogs who have accidents in the home due to illness or bad weather should have the feces removed before he has a chance to eat it.
Tasty Tips
How to Stop It
The simplest way to be sure your dog stops eating feces is to ensure any poop is discarded immediately. If you have a cat, place the litter box where your canine can't get to it. If you have a (human) baby in the house, all used diapers should be disposed of in a sealed trash can that he can't get to. Does your dog have accidents in the house? Restrict his access to certain areas of your home so you know where it might happen and you can observe him more closely.
Of course he's more likely to try to eat feces when you take him for walks; just make sure he's leashed at all times. If you notice him smelling the feces of other animals left behind, keep him close to you. When your dog eliminates, pick up his poop immediately.
Remember, just like many other unwanted behaviors it is important to never punish your dog for this behavior, as they do not always associate the bad behavior with the punishment. Instead using command training saying things such as "leave it" will help him better understand this behavior is unacceptable and learn not to do it in the future. However, if you are still in the middle of training him to avoid this behavior it is worth having breath-freshening treats available--especially if your dog is one of those that loves to give slobbery kisses. You wouldn't think training your dog would include teachings to stop eating poop, but this relationship is full of all sorts of adventure!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Rice Stew
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small & Mini Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws 7+ dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Related articles
Dental Disease in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatment
Discover what dental disease means for dogs, and how you can be treating oral health issues by simply feeding your dog food with proper nutrition.
Small Dog Breeds: What You Need to Know
Thinking of getting a small dog? Learn the pros & cons of small dog breeds, such as food & living space specifics, to decide if they're a good fit for you.
Gastroenteritis in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn the types of gastroenteritis in dogs, the various ways symptoms that can show up, treatment options and when it's serious enough for a vet visit.
How Often Should I Feed My Dog?
Learn the importance of feeding your puppy or adult dog the right amount of food at proper intervals and find out what feeding method is best for your dog.
Common Causes of Dog Skin Conditions
Understand the common irritants that cause various dog skin conditions, whether they be due to parasites, infections, food, or the environment.
Is Pineapple Safe for Dogs?
It's a tasty treat, but is pineapple safe for dogs? Discover the pros and cons of feeding your dog pineapple and how to do it safely.
Your Dog in Pain: Recognizing & Relieving
Learn how to recognize the signs & symptoms if your dog is in pain, whether you should give him medication, and if you need to call a veterinarian.
Dealing With Ear & Skin Yeast Infections in Dogs
Learn helpful information about yeast infections in dogs (in both ears & skin), including signs of the condition, causes, treatments and prevention tips.
Service Dogs Helping Other Dogs: Two Real-Life Stories of Pups Helping One Another
While service dogs play a huge role in helping people, they can also help other dogs with special needs. Read two true stories of these remarkable dogs.
Your Dog Ate Deodorant: What You Need to Know
Your Dog Ate Deodorant! What You Need to Know
Reducing Holiday Party Stress for Your Dog
Learn the best way to keep your dog comfortable & stress-free during a holiday party, including introducing him to guests & giving him a quiet place to res
4 Puppy Training Hacks
When you first thought of adopting a dog, you expected puppy training to be a ton of fun. Here are some training tips to make sure it stays that way.
Dog Warts: What are They & What Causes Them?
Learn whether dogs can actually get warts and their similarities to other skin growths, as well as whether they can be harmful for your dog.
Managing Kidney Failure in Dogs
Learn from a Veterinarian: All about kidney & renal failure in dogs, from what symptoms are for both acute & chronic conditions, to treatment & management.
When Does My Puppy Become an Adult Dog?
Learn how to recognize the signs that your puppy is becoming an adult dog, as well as how you can help meet their developmental & nutritional needs.
How Proper Dog Oral Care Leads to Healthy Dog Teeth
Are you paying enough attention to dog oral care? Learn some great ways to keep your dog's teeth & gums healthy, including a guide for brushing his teeth.
Recognizing and Managing Dog Dementia
Learn the common signs of dog dementia & canine cognitive dysfunction, how it is diagnosed and possible treatments that can be taken to manage the disease.
Why Your Puppy Barks
Learn the reasons why puppies bark and whine, and how you can train them to stop the unnecessary barking.
Tips for the First Few Weeks with Your New Puppy
Ensure that you're meeting all of your new puppy's needs by learning typical puppy behaviors in the home.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
Learn whether cheese is a snack that's safe for your dog, including specific types of cheese, ingredients to watch for and how much is ideal.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.