Why does my dog eat poop? (And how to stop it)

Many dog owners are shocked and confused when they witness their beloved pet eating feces—a behavior known as coprophagia. While it may seem disgusting to us, it’s actually more common in dogs than people realize.

There are several possible reasons for this behavior, and understanding the cause is the first step toward addressing it effectively.

From a biological standpoint, coprophagia may have evolved as a survival behavior. In the wild, dogs might eat feces to keep their den clean or to hide the scent from predators.

Mothers often lick their puppies to stimulate urination and defecation and may consume the waste to maintain hygiene. However, when this behavior continues or develops in adult dogs, it often points to an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

One common cause is dietary deficiency. If a dog’s food lacks certain nutrients or is poorly absorbed, the stool may still contain undigested elements that smell appealing to the dog. Malabsorption syndromes, pancreatic insufficiency, or diets low in vitamin B1 (thiamine) or other essential nutrients can contribute to coprophagia.

Dogs might also engage in this behavior out of boredom or anxiety—especially those left alone for long periods, under-stimulated, or punished harshly for indoor accidents. In some cases, it becomes a compulsive habit, reinforced over time.

Environmental factors also play a role. Dogs confined in small spaces, such as shelters or kennels, are more likely to eat feces, especially if it becomes a learned behavior from watching other dogs do the same. Some dogs might also be imitating their mothers or responding to human cues, such as overreaction from the owner, which inadvertently reinforces the act.

To stop this behavior, it's essential to address both medical and behavioral causes. A veterinary check-up is crucial to rule out health issues like intestinal parasites, enzyme deficiencies, or poor digestion.

Improving the dog’s diet, providing more mental stimulation, and consistent supervision during walks and in the yard can significantly help. Picking up feces immediately, using taste deterrents, and reinforcing alternative behaviors like playing or responding to commands also prove effective in many cases. Ultimately, patience and consistency are key, and with the right approach, most dogs can unlearn this habit.

References

Booth, C. E. (2003). Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses.

Blackwell Publishing.Landsberg, G., Hunthausen, W., & Ackerman, L. (2012). Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat (3rd ed.). Saunders.