It’s gross to us but common and usually normal in dogs. Coprophagia can be instinct, curiosity, boredom, or learned habit — and only sometimes points to a diet or health issue.
Eating poop, known as coprophagia, is surprisingly common, especially in puppies and some adult dogs. Mother dogs clean up after their litters by eating their puppies’ waste, and pups explore the world with their mouths, so a phase of poop-eating is a normal part of canine development. For most dogs it is an unpleasant habit rather than a sign that something is wrong.
Dogs may eat poop out of boredom or to get attention (even a horrified reaction is attention), out of hunger or because they find it tasty (cat poop and other animals’ droppings are a particular temptation), or out of stress and anxiety. Occasionally it can reflect a diet that leaves them feeling under-nourished, or a medical issue affecting absorption. Dogs left alone in a yard for long periods sometimes start the habit simply because there is little else to do.
While usually harmless, a sudden new interest in eating poop can occasionally signal a digestive or nutritional problem worth ruling out. It is also worth a vet check if your dog is losing weight, seems extra hungry, or the behaviour appears alongside other changes. Eating other animals’ faeces can also expose your dog to parasites, so keep up with worming.
The most effective approach is management: pick up after your dog promptly, keep the cat’s litter tray out of reach, and make walks and play more enriching so boredom is not a factor. Teach a solid “leave it” cue and reward your dog for coming away from droppings. Avoid punishment, which can make anxious dogs worse; calm redirection and a clean environment work far better.
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Most quirks are perfectly normal. If a behaviour changes suddenly or comes with other signs of illness, check with your vet. Full disclaimer.