Have you ever seen your dog eating his poop and wondered, “Why on earth ??” Rest assured, you are not alone.
“The act of dogs eating feces, also known as coprophagia, is a common behavior among dogs. Dogs consume feces for a range of reasons, and while certain explanations are considered typical, others may indicate an underlying problem,” said Cathy Madson in “Why Dogs Eat Poop and How to Stop It” in the Preventive Vet website.
Here are four explanations why dogs engage in this behavior:
1. Seeking Attention
Some dogs might start eating feces during their early stages of life because they view it as a playful activity. For instance, puppies tend to explore their environment by picking up feces with their mouths. In response, if you rush towards them and call out for them to drop it, it can be seen as an interaction. Some puppies may interpret the shouting as an enthusiastic invitation to play. These puppies learn that this behavior gets them attention from their human caregivers. As they grow into adults, this learned behavior persists as a way to gain attention.
2. Health Issues
If your dog is eating feces, it could be an indication that they are not feeling well. When you have a puppy or dog that consumes feces, whether their own or that of other dogs, it is advisable to have your pet examined by a veterinarian.
“Coprophagia can sometimes be linked to ailments affecting the gastrointestinal tract and, in some cases, other areas of the body like the liver or brain,” said Madson.
“If your adult dog, who has never displayed this behavior before, suddenly starts doing so alongside other signs of illness such as weight loss, lethargy, discomfort, behavioral changes, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s important to visit a veterinarian,” Madson added.
3. Anxiety
In certain cases, dogs may consume feces as a coping mechanism when they are feeling anxious. An anxious dog, when confined, might defecate and then eat their own feces. Various sources of anxiety that can trigger coprophagia include:
– General anxiety
– Concerns about confinement
– Separation anxiety when you are away from them
– Insufficient mental and physical stimulation during confinement
4. Fear of Repercussions
For some dogs, the habit of consuming feces may develop during their puppyhood if they have frequently faced reprimands from their owners for defecating indoors.
Possible Solutions:
To deter your puppy or dog from consuming feces, the most effective approach is to implement preventive measures that discourage this behavior. Once you have identified the root, consider applying the following solutions tailored to that specific reason.
Puppies with a Propensity for Eating Feces:
To address the issue, it is essential to control their access. During the housetraining phase, establish a regular schedule for taking your puppy outside. Once your puppy has finished defecating, express approval and offer a delectable treat. While your puppy is enjoying the treat, swiftly clean up the feces. By doing this, you not only prevent your puppy from having access to the feces but also positively reinforce their housetraining.
Dogs in Confinement or Experiencing Anxiety, Including Separation Anxiety:
“For dogs that are confined and exhibits anxiety, it’s crucial to assess their confinement conditions and make adjustments,” Madson said.
Some dogs may require a larger space, a quieter environment, or a greater variety of puzzle toys to keep them occupied.
Divert Your Dog’s Focus:
When dealing with an adult dog that has persistently engaged in coprophagia, it becomes vital to accompany your dog whenever they need to relieve themselves. Once they’ve completed this, summon your dog over for rewards. You can either guide them back indoors or toss a toy for them to chase while you handle the feces cleanup.
In the event that your dog promptly turns to consume their feces and does not respond to your commands, it is necessary to keep them on a leash and lead them away right after they’ve defecated.
“To effectively discourage your dog from eating feces, it’s essential to maintain ongoing management and restrict access to feces to prevent any relapses. Some individuals have found success in teaching their dogs commands like ‘leave it,’ followed by ‘come’ or an automatic ‘sit,’ all reinforced with positive rewards. The key here is to consistently offer praise and treats when your dog chooses not to immediately approach their feces,” Madson noted.
About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.
