Hounds, Terriers, and specifically Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties) are most prone to coprophagia, with studies showing that up to 40% of Shelties and many hounds and terriers engage in this behavior. Other commonly affected breeds include Labradors and Beagles, often due to their high food motivation, curiosity, and tendency toward boredom in multi-pet households.

Are some dog breeds more prone to eating poop?

Labrador Retrievers are notorious for trying to eat non-food items, which can include toys, socks, and even poop. And a 2018 study about canine coprophagy reported that Shetland Sheepdogs were most likely to eat poop, compared to other breeds in the study.

How do you stop coprophagia in dogs?

To stop coprophagia (dog poop eating), focus on management, training, and enrichment: immediately clean up feces, use "leave it" and recall commands with rewards, increase exercise and puzzle toys to combat boredom, ensure a high-quality diet, and consult a vet to rule out medical or anxiety issues. The key is consistent supervision and providing better, rewarding alternatives to eating stool.

Why do dogs develop coprophagia?

Hunger or diets deficient in nutrients or calories.

Some dogs may eat poop as a means of getting nutrients they are lacking in their regular diet. The portion of food they are receiving could also be inadequate for their breed and size causing them to look elsewhere for snacks.

How to clean dog mouth after eating poop?

To clean your dog's mouth after they eat poop, calmly wipe their teeth, gums, and tongue with a damp cloth or gauze, offer plenty of water to rinse, use dog-specific toothpaste/toothbrush/mouthwash if they're used to it, and provide a dental chew or fresh food to help freshen breath and remove residue. Remember to stay calm, use praise, and avoid human toothpaste, which is toxic. 

How Humans Ruined Dogs

What vitamin are dogs lacking when they eat poop?

If your dog eats poop (coprophagia), they might be lacking Vitamin B (especially B12), certain minerals, or digestive enzymes, but it's often behavioral, caused by hunger, anxiety, boredom, or even a learned habit, so a vet visit is best to rule out medical issues and ensure a balanced diet with adequate protein and nutrients. 

What is the best deterrent for dogs eating poop?

The best poop-eating deterrents involve a mix of management, taste aversions, and addressing root causes, with immediate cleanup being key, plus dietary changes like adding pumpkin/pineapple or using commercial deterrents (e.g., Zesty Paws, NaturVet) for a less appealing taste, while ensuring good nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation to reduce boredom-driven behaviors. Hot spices like cayenne can be applied directly to feces, but consistent supervision and training (like "leave it") are crucial. 

Is coprophagia a behavioral problem?

While most cases of coprophagia appear to be purely behavioral, there are indeed numerous medical problems that can cause or contribute to coprophagia. These problems must first be ruled out before a purely behavioral diagnosis can be made.

Can diet affect coprophagia in dogs?

Inadequate diets, or those lacking in certain minerals or vitamins can lead dogs to coprophagia. If you notice this behavior from your dog more often, it could be time to address their nutritional needs. If they are getting a full, well-balanced, age-appropriate diet they will be less likely to sample feces.

Is it a behavioral problem if a dog eats poop?

Yes, a dog eating poop (coprophagia) is often a behavioral issue, stemming from stress, boredom, anxiety, attention-seeking, or learned habits, but it can also signal underlying medical problems like nutritional deficiencies, parasites, or malabsorption disorders, so a vet visit is crucial to rule out health issues first. Common behavioral causes include punishment-induced fear (hiding evidence), lack of stimulation, or mimicking mother dogs, while medical causes can involve issues like diabetes, Cushing's disease, or pancreatitis.

Is coprophagia more common in certain breeds?

Eating dirt and cat stools were positively associated with coprophagy, as was breed group, with terriers and hounds being most coprophagic. Of individual breeds for which sufficient numbers were reported, Shetland Sheepdogs were overrepresented and Poodles (all varieties) underrepresented.

Should I consult a vet about coprophagia?

If your dog's poop-eating behavior is sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Addressing coprophagia involves both behavioral and medical strategies. Ensuring your dog is on a well-balanced diet is the first step.

Is coprophagia related to anxiety in dogs?

In some cases, coprophagia may stem from stress and anxiety. Your dog may be exhibiting this behavior to cope with being left alone or moved into a new environment. Other dogs will eat the feces of other animals to obtain nutrients they need that are missing from their regular diet.

What percentage of dogs have coprophagia?

Yes, according to a study presented at the annual ACVB/AVSAB Behavior Symposium in San Diego last month, 16% of dogs are serious stool eaters. That means they have been seen doing it 5 times and 24% have been caught in the act at least once.

What deficiency causes coprophagia in dogs?

Dogs may eat feces if they are not getting enough nutrients from their regular diet. Some of the nutritional deficiencies that can cause this behavior include: Protein deficiency: Dogs require adequate amounts of protein in their diet to maintain their muscle mass, immune system, and overall health.

How to cure coprophagia in dogs?

Treating dog coprophagia (poop eating) involves immediate cleanup, supervision, training (like "leave it"), environmental management (muzzles, deterrent sprays on feces), dietary changes, and sometimes supplements or vet-prescribed medications for underlying issues like anxiety or nutritional deficiencies, with a focus on positive reinforcement and consistency. 

What nutrients does my dog need to stop eating poop?

Probiotics help improve your dog's digestion and gut health, making sure they're absorbing the nutrients from their food effectively. Adding probiotics to your dog's diet can naturally prevent the need for them to seek out other sources of nutrition—like their own stool. Fiber is another important element.

What should I do to stop my dog from eating poop?

It's very rarely due to a medical problem or something lacking in their diet. The best way to stop your dog eating poo is by distracting them and giving them something better to do. If your dog has suddenly started eating poo and it's very out of character for them, contact your vet for advice.

What is the psychology behind coprophagia?

Psychologically, the typical coprophile is perhaps repressed, fearful of adult intimate relationships, confused, and even hostile—eating excrement can be viewed as a desire for a lost love object (Karpman, 1948). Anger might play a more significant role in generating this paraphilic behavior than sexual interest.

What do vets recommend for dogs that eat poop?

Natural Poop Eating Deterrents

Digestive enzymes: Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs digestive enzymes, which are typically only available by prescription. They can help improve the digestion and absorption of nutrients, resulting in less palatable poop.

At what age does coprophagia start?

Coprophagia is most common in puppies up to a year old, but can occur at any age. Fortunately, there are many techniques and training methods you can use to correct this habit.

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