There's nothing more unsettling than watching your beloved dog snack on something they definitely shouldn't—especially when that "something" is poop. Whether it's their own waste, another animal's droppings, or even (gasp!) cat litter box treasures, this gross habit leaves many dog owners baffled and desperate for answers.
The scientific term for this behavior—coprophagia—is more common than you might think. While it's natural to feel disgusted, it's important to understand that dogs don't see poop the way we do. For them, this behavior can stem from instinct, nutritional needs, or even boredom.
In this article, we'll dig into the real reasons behind this unpleasant habit (no pun intended) and give you practical, vet-approved solutions to stop it—including a specially formulated supplement that makes poop far less appetizing. Whether your pup is an occasional offender or a full-time poop connoisseur, we've got the answers you need to break this nasty habit for good.
So take a deep breath (preferably not near the "crime scene"), and let's explore why dogs do this and how you can put an end to it—because no one should have to endure those awkward "poop breath" kisses!
Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Dogs may eat poop if their diet lacks essential nutrients. Low-quality food or poor digestion can drive them to seek minerals and enzymes in feces.
2. Instinctual Behavior
Mother dogs naturally clean up after their puppies by eating their waste. Some adult dogs retain this habit.
3. Boredom or Anxiety
Dogs left alone for long periods may eat poop out of boredom or stress.
4. Attention-Seeking
If scolding your dog for poop-eating gets a reaction, they might repeat the behavior for attention.
5. Medical Issues
Conditions like malabsorption, parasites, or thyroid problems can trigger coprophagia.
How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop
✅ Improve Their Diet – Switch to high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food.
✅ Keep Their Environment Clean – Remove stool immediately after they go.
✅ Provide Mental Stimulation – Use puzzle toys and engage in regular playtime.
✅ Train with Positive Reinforcement – Reward them for ignoring poop.
✅ Try a Coprophagia Deterrent – Some supplements make poop taste unappealing.
Recommended Solution: NaturVet Scoopables Coprophagia Deterrent
If your dog won’t stop eating poop, NaturVet Scoopables Coprophagia Deterrent can help.
Why It Works:
✔️ Contains yucca schidigera and probiotics to discourage stool-eating
✔️ Makes poop taste unpleasant to dogs
✔️ Supports digestive health
✔️ Easy-to-administer soft chews
Credits: Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash
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