Is it normal for dogs to eat their own poop?

Why This Happens

Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and their sense of smell is vastly different from ours. There are several reasons why a dog might engage in this behavior:

• Instinctual Behavior: Some dogs, particularly puppies, may do this out of curiosity or as an imitation of their mothers, who instinctively clean their young to keep the environment tidy.
• Dietary or Nutritional Gaps: If a dog is not absorbing nutrients efficiently or is missing certain vitamins, they may seek them out in their own waste, which may still contain undigested food.
• Boredom or Anxiety: Dogs that are under-stimulated or stressed may develop oral fixations or “compulsive” habits, including eating poop, as a way to pass the time or self-soothe.
• Negative Reinforcement: If a dog has been punished in the past for having an accident in the house, they might eat the evidence to avoid getting into trouble.

What It Might Mean in Your Situation

To understand why your specific dog is doing this, look at the broader patterns and the context of the behavior. Consider the following factors:

The Age of the Dog: Puppies are much more likely to explore this way. If the behavior persists into adulthood, it may be more of a learned habit or a health-related drive. If a senior dog suddenly starts doing this, it is more likely to be related to a change in health or cognition.

Timing and Consistency: Does it happen only when they are alone? If so, it may be boredom. Does it happen immediately after eating? This could suggest a digestive issue where they aren’t feeling full or satisfied. Does it only happen in the yard but not on walks? This might suggest a territorial or environmental trigger.

Dietary Quality: If you have recently changed their food or if they are on a restricted diet, they may be seeking more calories or specific nutrients. Pay attention to whether the behavior correlates with changes in their feeding schedule.

What To Do About It

Stopping coprophagia requires a combination of management, training, and environmental changes. Avoid shaming or punishing the dog, as this can often make the behavior worse.

1. Immediate Cleanup: The most effective way to stop the habit is to remove the temptation. Pick up waste immediately after your dog finishes their business. If you eliminate the opportunity, the habit is more likely to fade.
2. Increase Mental and Physical Stimulation: Provide more “jobs” for your dog. Use puzzle feeders, longer walks, and interactive play sessions. A tired dog with a stimulated mind is less likely to engage in boredom-based behaviors.
3. Implement Positive Reinforcement: Use a “leave it” command. When your dog finishes pooping, immediately call them away with a high-value treat. Reward them for walking away from the waste, effectively teaching them that ignoring the poop leads to a better reward.

Real-Life Example

Consider a puppy owner, Sarah, who notices her Golden Retriever pup eating poop in the backyard. Instead of scolding the pup—which might lead the pup to “hide” the evidence by eating it faster—Sarah begins carrying a treat pouch during every potty break. As soon as the puppy finishes, she says “Leave it!” and offers a piece of cooked chicken. By consistently rewarding the act of walking away, the puppy learns that the treat is more valuable than the waste, and the behavior eventually stops.

Related Questions

• Is it safe for dogs to eat poop?
• How do I stop my dog from eating poop?
• Why do puppies eat poop specifically?
• What if my dog eats other dogs’ poop?

When To Seek Outside Help

While coprophagia is often behavioral, you should consult a veterinarian if the behavior is accompanied by weight loss, lethargy, diarrhea, or a sudden change in appetite. Outside professional help (a vet or a certified dog behaviorist) is recommended if the behavior is obsessive, cannot be managed through basic training, or if you suspect the dog has a nutritional deficiency or parasitic infection that requires medical treatment.