Why do dogs eat poop? And how to stop it
Eating poop (coprophagia) is a normal behaviour for mother dogs and common in puppies, who often grow out of it. In adult dogs it can be habit, boredom, stress or attention-seeking, but parasites, poor nutrient absorption and conditions that increase appetite should be ruled out by a vet.
How common is it?
Very. In one large survey cited by VCA, about 16% of dogs were serious poop eaters and 23% had done it at least once. The same research found the habit more common in multi-dog homes, and most poop eaters went for fresh stool — one or two days old at most.
Why dogs do it
- It’s natural at some ages. Mother dogs eat their puppies’ waste for the first weeks to keep the den clean, and puppies explore everything with their mouths.
- Ancestral instinct. Researchers suggest wild canids ate fresh droppings near the den before parasite eggs could hatch.
- Boredom, isolation and confinement. Dogs kept alone in kennels or small spaces are more likely to do it.
- Anxiety and punishment. Harsh house-training can teach a dog to “hide the evidence”.
- Attention. Chasing and yelling can turn it into a game.
- Taste. Cat poop and some herbivore droppings are particularly attractive to many dogs.
Medical causes to rule out
If an adult dog suddenly starts eating poop, see your vet. Possible causes include intestinal parasites, poor digestion or absorption (such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency), underfeeding or an unbalanced diet, diabetes, Cushing’s disease, thyroid disease and medicines like steroids that increase appetite. In senior dogs, a new habit can be linked to cognitive decline.
Is it dangerous?
Eating poop can spread intestinal parasites, bacteria and viruses — including parvovirus in unvaccinated dogs. Cat litter can also cause a blockage if swallowed in quantity.
How to stop it
- Clean up straight away — in the yard and on walks. No access, no habit.
- Use a leash and call your dog away right after they go, then reward with a treat.
- Teach “leave it” and “drop it” with high-value rewards.
- Never punish accidents or poop-eating — it makes the problem worse.
- Put the litter box out of reach with a baby gate or a top-entry box.
- Add exercise and enrichment to tackle boredom.
- Taste-deterrent products help only a small percentage of dogs, so don’t rely on them alone.
Frequently asked questions
Will my puppy grow out of eating poop?
Most puppies do as they mature, especially with good nutrition, supervision and prompt clean-up.
Why does my dog eat cat poop?
Cat food is high in protein and fat, so cat poop smells like food to many dogs. Put the litter box where your dog can’t reach it.
Does pineapple stop dogs eating poop?
There’s no good evidence that pineapple or other home remedies work reliably. Clean-up and training are more effective.
Sources
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Every pet is different — for questions about your own pet’s health, talk to your veterinarian.
