🐶 Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Poop?
Yes — at least some of the time.
The behavior has a name: coprophagia (ko-pro-FAY-jia).
It’s seen in puppies, adult dogs, and sometimes even nursing moms.
But don’t worry — most dogs grow out of it, and in many cases, it’s harmless.
That said… it’s still gross. So let’s find out why it happens.
🧠 6 Common Reasons Why Dogs Eat Poop
1️⃣ Instinct from Puppyhood
Mother dogs often clean up after their pups — yes, including their waste. Puppies learn by copying behavior, so they may try it too (especially under 6 months).
2️⃣ Boredom or Attention-Seeking
If a dog is left alone too long or under-stimulated, they might eat poop just to do something. And if they realize you react strongly? Instant attention.
“Oh, you’re finally looking at me? Great, I’ll keep doing it!”
3️⃣ Hunger or Poor Nutrition
Dogs lacking certain enzymes or nutrients may eat poop as a way to compensate. This can happen if:
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They’re underfed
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They eat low-quality kibble
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They have absorption issues
4️⃣ Cleanliness OCD
Some dogs simply don’t like mess. They may eat poop to “clean up” their living space — especially in crates or kennels.
5️⃣ Underlying Health Issues
Conditions like:
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Diabetes
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Parasites
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Problems with the pancreas
…can trigger poop-eating due to increased hunger or malabsorption.
📌 If it happens suddenly and frequently, it’s worth talking to your vet.
6️⃣ They Just... Like It?
Yep, some dogs are just weird. Like how some humans eat pineapple on pizza 🍍🍕
It may be behavioral, learned, or simply taste preference (unfortunately for us).
😷 Is It Dangerous for Dogs to Eat Poop?
It can be. Eating their own poop is less risky than eating poop from:
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Other dogs
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Cats
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Wild animals (raccoons, birds)
➡ Those can contain parasites, bacteria, or viruses, so it’s best to discourage the behavior either way.
🛑 How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop
Here’s what you can try:
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Clean up quickly: Remove poop from yard or crate ASAP
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Improve their diet: High-quality food + possible enzyme/probiotic supplements
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More play & stimulation: Keep their brain and body busy
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Training & redirection: “Leave it” command + reward
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Use deterrents: Taste-based sprays or additives (ask vet)
⚠️ If it persists, always consult your vet to rule out medical causes.
🐾 Final Thoughts
So, why do dogs eat poop?
The reasons range from instinct to boredom to real medical issues — and while it might seem totally disgusting, it’s often fixable with a little understanding and training.
And remember:
Your dog may not have the best taste in snacks…
…but they definitely have the best taste in humans. 💛
