Coprophagia (Stool Eating)

There are a few things are dogs do that we’re rather embarrassed to mention.  I think it’s safe to say Coprophagia (Stool Eating) would fall into that category.

It’s important to come to understand why it occurs.  Here are some common reasons:

1. The dog isn’t being fed enough.
2. The dog is fed a very poor-quality food and is suffering from malnutrition or a vitamin/mineral deficiency.
3. The dog has a medical problem.
4. The dog’s stool contains a lot of undigested food.
5. The dog is bored.
6. The dog is kept in a very small area, and the dog’s feces isn’t picked up regularly.

In treating this or really any other problem behavior it’s best to address the cause.  You’ll be much more successful in eliminating the problem.

It’s always a good idea to develop a feeding schedule, which will mean it will be easier to predict when your dog needs to eliminate.

It’s important to pick up the defecation immediately.  Whenever your dog starts to sniff or investigate the stool, interrupt them. Don’t scare the dog or correct them, but rather redirect them onto something else.  I love to use hand targeting.   Management is a key to solving this unwanted behavior.  In other words, pick up their stool immediately and don’t give the dog an opportunity.

Often boredom is at the root of this problem.  Give your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.  For instance,  give your dog an interactive toy like a Tricky Treat Ball  that contains hidden treats.

Proper nutrition is a piece of the puzzle.  Sometimes switching their diet to a food that’s easy to digest goes a long way to help solve the problem.   The Whole Dog Journal gives excellent advice on what is best to feed your dog and why.  You might also feed your dog several times a day, small meals, rather than all at once.  This will ensure they don’t get very hungry.

There are also some products available on the market that can be used to treat Coprophagia… whether they’re effective is up for debate.   It’s placed on the dog’s food before consumption and it can make the stool undesirable to the dog.  I should emphasize it doesn’t deter every stool eater but it has worked for some.