Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? Understanding Coprophagia in Canines

If you’ve ever caught your dog snacking on something they shouldn't—like their own poop or another animal’s—you’re not alone. This behavior, known as coprophagia, is more common than you might think. While it may seem disgusting to us, there are several reasons why dogs engage in this habit. Let’s explore why dogs eat poop and what you can do about it.


1. Instinctual Behavior
Dogs are scavengers by nature, and in the wild, consuming feces could have been a survival mechanism. Mother dogs also lick and clean up after their puppies, including eating their waste, to keep the den clean and protect them from predators. Some dogs may retain this instinct into adulthood.


2. Nutritional Deficiencies
One of the most common reasons dogs eat poop is due to a nutritional deficiency. If a dog isn’t getting enough essential nutrients—such as digestive enzymes, probiotics, or certain vitamins—they may attempt to re-digest their waste in search of what’s missing. This is especially common in dogs fed highly processed diets lacking bioavailable nutrients.

How to Fix It:
• Feed a species-appropriate, raw diet that provides natural enzymes and nutrients.
• Add probiotics and digestive enzymes to aid nutrient absorption.
• Ensure your dog’s diet meets their individual nutritional needs.


3. Gut Health Imbalance
A dog with an imbalanced gut microbiome may seek out feces as a way to repopulate beneficial bacteria. Dogs with poor digestion or conditions like leaky gut syndrome might instinctively eat poop to help their gut function properly.

How to Fix It:
• Support gut health with fermented foods, kefir, or a high-quality probiotic supplement.
• Reduce inflammation by eliminating processed kibble and inflammatory foods.


4. Boredom or Stress
Dogs lacking mental stimulation or suffering from anxiety may engage in poop-eating as a compulsive behavior. Dogs left alone for long hours, kept in confined spaces, or those with a history of neglect may resort to eating feces as a coping mechanism.

How to Fix It:
• Provide daily exercise and enrichment, such as puzzle toys and interactive play.
• Address anxiety with natural calming aids like chamomile, or structured training.


5. Learned Behavior or Attention-Seeking
Some dogs learn to eat poop from watching other dogs do it. Others may do it because they received a strong reaction from their owner. If a dog is seeking attention, even negative attention (like you yelling “No!”), it may reinforce the behavior.

How to Fix It:
• Avoid overreacting when you catch your dog eating poop.
• Reward them when they leave it alone instead.


6. Medical Conditions
In some cases, coprophagia is linked to medical issues like diabetes, thyroid imbalances, or malabsorption disorders. If your dog’s poop-eating habit is sudden and excessive, consult a holistic veterinarian to rule out underlying conditions.



Final Thoughts
While poop-eating is a frustrating habit, understanding the root cause can help you address it effectively. Providing proper nutrition, supporting gut health, and ensuring your dog’s emotional well-being can go a long way in stopping this behavior. If all else fails, working with a holistic vet or canine nutritionist may uncover additional underlying factors.

Does your dog eat poop? What strategies have worked for you? Share your experiences in the comments below!