Why does a dog eat poop? (coprophagia in dogs) Causes, what to do, and how to stop a dog from doing it

What is coprophagia in dogs?

Coprophagia, or the eating of feces, is a behavior that occurs more often in dogs than many owners realize. Although it can be embarrassing and difficult to accept, it is not accidental.

In practice:

it's a sign that something in the dog's functioning — its behavior, environment, or body — needs attention

Most often, it is the result of a combination of several factors, which is why the problem should be considered more broadly, and not just as a "bad habit."

In this article, I focus primarily on the dog's behavior and its psychological causes — because these are most often the source of the problem.

Why does a dog eat poop? The most common causes of coprophagia in dogs

Behavioral causes – why does a dog eat feces?

This is very often the starting point of the problem.

Coprophagia can result from:

• boredom and lack of stimulation
• a monotonous environment
• stress or separation anxiety
• seeking owner's attention
• ingrained bad habits
• instinct
• gluttony
• relationships with other dogs (e.g., dominance)

 a dog can:

• relieve tension
• look for something to do
• react to a lack of stimulation

As an owner of two dogs and an active member of social groups, I see that this problem occurs very often.

Many owners focus solely on the dog's behavior.

However, my observations and conversations with behaviorists indicate that in many cases the problem is related to how the dog functions on a daily basis — both in terms of its environment and its diet.

Does diet affect a dog eating poop?

The second important area is the dog's body function.

Coprophagia can occur with:

• nutritional deficiencies
• disorders of the gut microbiota
• digestive problems
• poor nutrient absorption
• low-quality diet

Of particular importance are:

• B vitamins
• digestive enzymes
• micro- and macroelements

If the body is not functioning properly, there may be increased interest in feces.

In practice, this means that coprophagia rarely has a single cause — which is why effective action requires a broader view of the problem.

Dog breeds and predispositions

Some breeds may show a greater tendency for this behavior, including:

• Labradors
• Pugs
• Bulldogs

Studies indicate a possible link with genetic predispositions (e.g., the POMC gene).

However, even in such cases, the following remain crucial:

• environment
• the dog's daily functioning.

Coprophagia in puppies

In puppies, this behavior occurs more frequently and is often related to the developmental stage.

Why do puppies eat poop?

·      Curiosity and exploration

Puppies learn about the world through smell and taste. Feces can simply be something for them to investigate.

·      Mother's imitation

The mother dog keeps the den clean by removing feces — young dogs may copy this behavior.

·      Immature digestive system

At this stage, the body is still developing, which can influence how the dog reacts to various stimuli.

·      Improper feeding

If the diet is not well-suited, the body may react with increased interest in feces.

·      Health problems

Sometimes the cause can be parasites or other disorders — in which case the behavior is a symptom, not a stage.

When to react?

React if:

• the behavior intensifies
• it lasts a long time
• digestive problems appear
• the dog seems unsatisfied

How to react with a puppy?

• calmly interrupt the behavior
• clean up feces immediately
• provide stimulation and activity
• introduce basic training

Consistency and calmness are key.

The role of diet in puppies

Diet supports the body's development and the stability of the digestive system.

A well-chosen food can limit the problem and improve the dog's functioning

It's worth paying attention to solutions that support digestion. A good choice is TufTuf food because thanks to its balanced composition and high digestibility, it can support the proper functioning of the digestive system and limit factors that aggravate the problem.

Since in most cases coprophagia results from the dog's behavior, it is this area that should be focused on first.

How to stop a dog from eating poop?

Since we know the possible causes, the most important question arises — what to do in practice?

In the case of coprophagia, it is crucial to act on several levels simultaneously: the dog's behavior, environment, and daily routine.

1. Eliminating stress and tension

Stress is one of the most common triggers for this behavior.

Ensure:

• a stable, predictable routine
• the dog's sense of security
• a calm environment
• limiting sudden changes

A dog that feels safe is less likely to develop compulsive behaviors.

 2. More activity and stimulation

Boredom is a very common cause of coprophagia.

Introduce:

• quality walks (not just "quick outings")
• scent games
• mental training
• active feeding toys

A busy dog does not look for "alternative activities."

 3. Behavioral training

This is one of the most important elements of working with a dog.

Focus on:

• the "leave it" command
• reaction to the owner's signal
• consistency

use:

• positive reinforcement
• rewarding correct behavior

avoid punishment — it can increase stress and worsen the problem

4. Environmental control

This is a simple, but very effective step.

• clean up feces regularly
• limit access to them
• in difficult situations, keep the dog on a leash

The key is to prevent the behavior from becoming ingrained.

5. Support from a behaviorist

If the problem:

• persists for a long time
• intensifies
• does not respond to basic actions

It is worth consulting an animal behaviorist

A specialist will:

• find the cause
• tailor an action plan
• help avoid mistakes

6. Support for the body

If the dog's body is not functioning properly, the behavior may become ingrained.

Therefore, it is worth taking care of:

• proper nutrition
• good nutrient absorption
• digestive system support

This is an element that is often overlooked, but it has a real impact on the problem.

In such situations, it is worth using food that truly supports the functioning of the digestive system and nutrient absorption. A good choice is TufTuf wet food 

 7. Do supplements help?

Available on the market are:

• probiotics
• digestive enzymes
• anti-coprophagia preparations

they can support the process, but they cannot replace working with the dog and changing its daily functioning,

How does diet affect coprophagia?

A dog's diet has a real impact on its behavior – especially when the body is not functioning properly.

A dog's body needs an adequate amount of:

• protein
• vitamins (especially B vitamins)
• micro and macro elements
• ingredients supporting digestion

 if the diet is:

• poor
• monotonous
• poorly digestible

 this can lead to digestive system disorders, which also affect the dog's behavior

 Deficiencies and their consequences

An improperly balanced diet can lead to:

• nutritional deficiencies
• disorders of the intestinal microflora
• problems with digestion and absorption
• a feeling of constant hunger (polyphagia)

 in such situations, the dog may:

• exhibit behaviors associated with so-called pica syndrome
• show interest in feces as an "additional source" of nutrients

 Food quality matters

The problem often does not stem from the amount of food, but from its quality.

The risk increases with:

• a diet of low biological value
• highly processed food
• lack of ingredient diversity

 such a diet:

• does not support gut function
• does not provide a feeling of satiety
• can exacerbate undesirable behaviors

 When should you look at your diet?

Pay attention if, in addition to coprophagia, the following occur:

• constant hunger or lack of satiety
• digestive problems (loose stools, gas, rumbling)
• decreased energy

this is a clear sign that diet may be influencing the problem

A well-chosen food can be real support in working with a dog.

TufTuf food: 

• provides balanced nutrients
• supports proper digestion and absorption
• helps stabilize the digestive system
• increases feelings of satiety

which can limit factors that exacerbate coprophagia

Is eating poop dangerous for a dog?

It's not just a behavioral problem.

It can lead to:

• parasitic infections
• bacterial and viral infections
• digestive problems
• contact with toxins

 additionally:

 there is a risk to humans

Why shouldn't you ignore this?

Because over time:

• the behavior becomes ingrained
• the problem worsens

When to go to the vet if your dog eats poop?

Although coprophagia is often associated with a behavioral problem, in many cases, it also requires medical evaluation. A consultation with a veterinarian helps rule out diseases and determine appropriate action.

Contact a specialist if:

• the behavior appeared suddenly
• it intensifies despite working with the dog
• it is accompanied by digestive symptoms (diarrhea, vomiting, gas)
• the dog has a very large appetite (polyphagia) or lacks satiety
• you observe weight loss
• the problem affects an adult dog and persists for a long time

This may indicate that the cause lies deeper than just behavior.

What tests might be needed?

Depending on the case, the veterinarian may recommend:

• clinical examination
• stool analysis (parasites, giardia)
• complete blood count and biochemical tests
• assessment of vitamin B12 and folic acid levels
• pancreatic function tests (e.g., TLI)

in more complex cases:

• analysis of the digestive system's function
• assessment of nutrient absorption

Importance of medical history

One of the most important elements is a thorough medical history, which includes:

• the dog's diet
• frequency of the behavior
• environment and lifestyle
• health history

often at this stage, the cause of the problem can be narrowed down

Veterinarian + behaviorist = best results

In many cases, coprophagia has a mixed character.

Therefore, the best results come from:

• cooperation with a veterinarian
• consultation with a behaviorist

this approach allows:

• finding the real cause
• choosing an effective solution
• avoiding "blind" actions

CHECKLIST for the owner

✔ Does the dog get enough exercise?
✔ Is its environment varied?
✔ Is its diet appropriately chosen?
✔ Have health problems been ruled out?

if several answers = YES, act comprehensively

FAQ

Is it normal?
In puppies, often yes, in adults — a sign of a problem

Does diet matter?
Yes, but as part of the whole

Can a dog be taught not to do it?
In most cases, yes

Is eating feces by a dog dangerous?

Yes — it can lead to:

• parasitic infections (e.g., tapeworms, giardia)
• bacterial and viral infections
• digestive problems (diarrhea, vomiting)

eating the feces of other animals is particularly risky.

 Does a dog eat feces due to deficiencies?

It can be, though it is not the only cause.

If the dog's diet:

• is monotonous
• is of low quality
• does not provide all nutrients

the body may react with increased interest in feces

Can changing the food help when the dog eats feces?

In many cases, yes — especially if the problem is related to the functioning of the digestive system.

a well-chosen food can:

• improve digestion
• increase nutrient absorption
• limit factors intensifying the behavior

therefore, it is worth paying attention to the quality of nutrition and adapting the food to the dog's needs

Can a dog infect a human through coprophagia?

Yes — there is such a risk.

A dog that eats feces can transmit:

• intestinal parasites
• pathogenic bacteria

therefore, what is important is:

• hygiene
• quick reaction to the problem

Summary

Coprophagia is a complex problem that:

• often starts with behavior and environment
• can be reinforced by the body's functioning
• requires a holistic approach

Most importantly:

An effective solution is a combination of working with the dog and ensuring its daily functioning

 

Dog's Perspective
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