Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?! (And What Can I Do About It)

The Gag-Worthy Truth

Let’s just say it—there are few things more horrifying than watching your adorable pup treat a pile of poop like an all-you-can-eat buffet. If you’ve ever shouted “NO! DON’T EAT THAT!” across the yard while sprinting like you're in the Olympics, you are not alone.

Coprophagia (yep, that’s the fancy term for poop-eating) is surprisingly common—and yes, incredibly gross. Beyond the gag reflex it triggers in humans, it can pose real health risks for your dog. We’re talking parasites, bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, and even toxins from another animal’s diet. Not to mention… those puppy kisses become a lot less cute.

Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?

There are actually a few reasons, and no—they’re not doing it just to ruin your day.

Puppy Behavior & Instinct

For young pups, eating poop can be part of natural exploration—like babies putting everything in their mouths—only, ewww! Some puppies learn it from their moms, who clean up the den instinctively. While some grow out of it, early training  and prevention is highly recommended!

Adult Dog Motivations

In adult dogs, it can be caused by boredom, anxiety, stress, confinement, or even attention-seeking. Medical issues can also be to blame, so it’s wise to rule those out with your vet, especially if it’s a new behavior for your dog.

Environmental & Habitual Factors

Dogs who’ve spent time in puppy mills, shelters, or confined spaces may associate poop with food due to poor living conditions or feeding routines. Others just… like the taste. (Yep, it’s a thing.)

Find the Pattern

Start by identifying what kind of poop your dog is going after:

• Their own?

• Other dogs’?

• Cat poop?

• Any and all kinds?

Understanding their preferences (ugh, I know) can help you determine what’s causing the behavior—and how to stop it.

How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop

Here are the THREE KEYS to tackling this problem head-on:

1. Remove the Opportunity

If there’s no poop, there’s nothing to eat. Problem solved! Well, almost, this is really just the beginning, but a critically important part of the solution.

Immediate Cleanup

Scoop poop immediately after they (or another pet) does the deed. go. Providing a small enclosed dog run for them to eliminate will make supervision and prompt clean up much easier. Always be sure they get the chance to do their business before they get access to the rest of the yard, and always have bags or a poop scoop ready for quick cleanup.

Controlled Environments

If it happens when you’re out and about, on walks or for recreation, you’ll need to be even more vigilant to keep them away from it. Keep your dog on a leash during walks or playtime, and train a solid “leave it” and recall command.

Use of Muzzles

A basket muzzle with an anti-scavenging guard insert or a field guard that covers the front of the muzzle can help while you work on training. Ensure it allows panting and drinking, and always combine with supervision and training.

Cat Litter Box Management

If they’re raiding the litter box, place the box in areas inaccessible to your dog, such as elevated surfaces or behind pet gates. Keep it clean to reduce temptation!

2. Address the Root Cause

Vet Check

We always want to rule out any possible health reasons for behavior issues. Ask your vet to check for:

• Parasites

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Malabsorption

• Diabetes, Cushing’s, or thyroid issues

• Side effects from medications

Dietary Improvements

Poor diet can be a hidden culprit. Many dogs are fed highly processed commercial diets that are not nutritionally complete. Consider upgrading your dog’s diet and/or incorporate certain foods into your dog's diet that may better address the root causes. Common recommendations include:

• Pre & Probiotics: Including pre and probiotics in your dog’s daily diet will enhance their digestion, nutrient absorption, and boost their immune system. This can come in the form of food (like organic plain yogurt, fermented goats milk or green tripe) or as a supplement added to their food. There are many, many options to choose from, so do your research and check with your vet for recommendations.

• Digestive Enzymes: Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog may benefit from digestive enzymes prescribed by your vet or from food sources . Foods like include plain mashed pumpkin, fresh pineapple or papaya (in small amounts) can be added to your dog's meals.

• Vitamin B Supplements: Especially B1, which may be deficient.  If your pet is diagnosed with a malabsorption issue or Vitamin B deficiency, your veterinarian may recommend B-complex injections.

• More Fiber: If your dog is the type that is always looking for more food, including fiber rich foods may boost their nutritional intake and make them feel more satiated, which can in turn eliminate one of the possible causes of coprophagia. Lightly cooked greens (kale, spinach, green beans) and grains like oats or quinoa, barley, millet, sorghum are a good source of fiber, protein, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.

3. Consistent Supervision & Training

Proper training will greatly reduce or completely eliminate the constant poop patrol.

Teach “Leave It”

Train your dog to respond to "leave it" when they approach things that are off limits. Start in a very controlled situation and gradually expand their understanding of the command and a prompt response. Practice daily with a variety of objects and in different situations to develop a reliable response to the command.

Train a Solid Recall

Condition your dog to come when called—even when there is something interesting to them that they would like to investigate. Make coming to you rewarding and fun, an opportunity to engage with you and continue exploring together.

Redirect Their Focus

After your dog eliminates, (or when they spy a tempting pile), immediately guide their focus to a toy, a treat, or a play session, providing an alternative to going in for it. Create a new habit—a default response of checking in with you anytime they encounter poop. 

Stay Consistent

Supervise during walks and play. Interrupt the behavior every time, and stay consistent with training until new habits take root.

What About Deterrents?

There are products designed to make poop taste awful (as if it didn’t already). Results may be hit or miss, and they’re usually only effective if your dog eats their own poop. Be cautious with additives, always read the ingredients carefully and stay away from anything with ingredients that can harm your dog.—some popular folk remedies like meat tenderizer can be harmful due to high levels of sodium, MSG and flavorings. Always choose vet-approved products made specifically for dogs.

Final Word

Stopping poop-eating takes a combo of prevention, vet insight, and consistent training—but it can be done. Your dog isn’t trying to upset you—they may just need your help understanding a better way to behave.