Feb 16, 2025

Why Do Puppies Eat Poop? Causes and Solutions for Coprophagia

Puppies, in their curious and often mischievous ways, are known to eat some pretty strange things. One of the most repulsive behaviors they may engage in is eating poop—either their own or that of other animals. While this can be distressing for dog owners, the good news is that many puppies eventually grow out of this phase. However, it's essential to understand the underlying reasons for coprophagia (the medical term for poop-eating) and how to stop it from becoming a persistent habit.

Why Do Puppies Eat Poop?

There are several reasons why your puppy might be eating poop, ranging from instinctual behavior to medical issues. Understanding the root cause of the behavior can help you effectively address it.

1. Imitating Their Mother

For very young puppies, eating feces may be a normal behavior. Mother dogs often eat the feces of their puppies to keep the den clean and avoid attracting predators. While this practice typically ends around weaning, some puppies may continue to eat poop beyond this phase.

2. Boredom and Play

Sometimes, puppies may eat poop simply because they are bored. If they’re left alone in the yard with nothing to do, they might view poop as something to interact with. The attention they receive from you—whether it's chasing them or shouting—can even turn this behavior into a game, encouraging them to engage in it more frequently.

3. Attractive Taste or Smell

Certain types of feces are particularly appealing to dogs. For example, cat feces may contain high-protein content, making it a tasty treat for puppies. Manure from cows or horses can also contain undigested grains or foods that attract puppies. The smell and taste of these droppings may seem irresistible to your pup.

4. Seeking Attention

Puppies crave attention, and even negative attention can be seen as a reward. If you react strongly to the poop-eating behavior—shouting, chasing, or scolding—your puppy may see it as a way to get your focus. Puppies don’t always understand that they’re being punished, so punishment can sometimes make the behavior worse.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

Poor diet or nutrient deficiencies can lead a puppy to eat its own feces. If a puppy isn’t getting enough nutrients from its food or has digestive issues, it may turn to its stool as a way to "recycle" nutrients. Additionally, a puppy with intestinal worms might eat poop to compensate for the nutrients being absorbed by the parasites.

6. Health Issues

Certain medical conditions, such as malabsorption disorders, diabetes, or hypothyroidism, can increase a puppy's appetite and cause them to resort to eating feces. If your puppy shows signs of illness or is not thriving on a balanced diet, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

7. Stress and Anxiety

Puppies can experience stress from various factors, such as moving to a new home, separation anxiety, or harsh punishment for undesirable behaviors. Stress can lead to poop-eating, especially if the puppy associates it with a way to cope with anxiety or fear.

How to Stop a Puppy from Eating Poop

If your puppy has developed the habit of eating feces, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to avoid health risks like parasites and bacteria transmission. Here are several strategies to help stop your puppy from eating poop:

1. Clean Up Immediately

The easiest way to prevent your puppy from eating poop is to limit their access to it. Clean up your puppy's stool as soon as they relieve themselves, and check the yard regularly for any leftover feces, including from other animals. Be sure to dispose of the waste in a trash can with a tightly fitted lid.

2. Restrict Access to Cat Litter

If you have a cat, ensure the litter box is out of your puppy’s reach. You can use a covered litter box or install a baby gate to keep your dog from getting into the litter box. If possible, place the gate just high enough that the cat can crawl under but the dog can’t.

3. Use a Leash During Walks

When you're walking your puppy outside, keep them on a leash to prevent them from eating poop they may find on the sidewalk or in the park. Remain vigilant while walking, as puppies can act quickly when they spot something tempting. Reward your pup with treats when they leave the feces alone.

Sambboho leash bundle

4. Training Techniques

Training is essential for curbing poop-eating. Teach your puppy basic commands like "come," "sit," and "stay" so you can control their behavior after they poop. Reward them with treats when they leave their stool alone. Using the "leave it" command can also help prevent them from picking up inappropriate items from the ground.

5. Increase Exercise and Playtime

A bored puppy is more likely to engage in undesirable behaviors, like eating poop. Increase your puppy’s activity levels by scheduling multiple play sessions throughout the day. Regular exercise not only helps reduce boredom but also strengthens the bond between you and your puppy.

6. Address Stress

If stress is a contributing factor, try to identify the cause of your puppy’s anxiety. Common stressors include moving to a new home, changes in household dynamics, or separation anxiety. Consult with your veterinarian to explore calming aids, like pheromone diffusers or medications, to help reduce your puppy's stress levels.

7. Add Bad-Tasting Supplements to Their Diet

Some pet owners have successfully discouraged poop-eating by adding supplements to their puppy’s food that cause their stool to taste bad. Ingredients like pineapple or bromelain make stool bitter, which can help create a negative association with eating poop. Always consult your veterinarian before using any supplements to ensure they’re safe for your puppy.

8. Switch to a Higher-Quality Diet

If you suspect nutritional deficiencies, consider switching your puppy to a higher-quality food that offers better digestibility and more balanced nutrients. Talk to your veterinarian about the best food options for your puppy’s breed, age, and health needs.

9. Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried various methods and the behavior persists, it may be time to consult a professional. A veterinarian or a dog behaviorist can offer valuable advice and guide you through the process of modifying your puppy’s behavior.

Conclusion

Puppies eating poop can be a distressing and unpleasant behavior, but with the right approach, it’s possible to stop it. By identifying the cause of coprophagia, whether it's boredom, health issues, or stress, you can take steps to prevent it. From cleaning up after your pup to incorporating training and increasing exercise, you can help your puppy break the poop-eating habit and ensure they stay healthy and happy.