Emilee Brewer
Does your dog enjoy a defecation delicacy? Do they like a fecal matter platter? Have a literal sh*t-eating grin? Well, you’re not alone! As disgusting as it is, poop-eating is actually a widespread trait in dogs. The real question, though, is why do they do it? The answer may surprise you.
While coprophagia, or poop eating, hasn’t been studied extensively, there are several theories of why it happens. One possible reason is a nutrient deficiency. Take rabbits for example. Their diet isn’t the easiest to digest, and they lose some important vitamins and minerals. To combat this, they eat their poop to get all the good stuff on the rebound. So are dogs doing the same thing? Maybe. Coprophagia is so common that it’s hard to believe that so many dogs are vitamin deficient. However, some diseases could cause poor absorption of nutrients, so they may be trying to regain those lost chemicals. Additionally, diseases that increase their appetites like diabetes or even thyroid problems, could lead to poop eating. A study showed that greedy eaters and multi-dog households were more inclined to eat their feces.
Another theory for coprophagia is that it is instinctual, leftover memories of their wolfy ancestors. If food was scarce, poop would have leftover fat, protein, or maybe even little bits of undigested food. It’s also a good way to hide your trail from any potential predators.
But the leading theory is that it’s all behavioral. It could be stress, anxiety, boredom, isolation. According to the AKC, “spending too much time confined in a small space can cause a dog to develop a poop-eating problem. It’s not unusual to see coprophagia in dogs rescued from crowded animal shelters”. If your dog is left home alone for long periods, they may eat their poop because they have nothing better to do with their time. It can also be simply to avoid punishment! Who hasn’t gotten mad at their pooch for taking a poop on the floor? If they know they’re going to get in trouble, they’re going to hide the evidence. Always make sure the punishment fits the crime so they don’t feel the need to shame eat.
So should you be worried about poopy mouth? Obviously, you shouldn’t encourage the behavior, but the majority of the time, it won’t lead to any ill effects. However, depending on what the dog eats or what was present in the poop, it can lead to diseases or parasites. Always consult your vet if you’re concerned about your pet's health and especially if they start eating poop out of nowhere!
Regardless of why dogs do it, no one wants to see their cuddly canine chowing down on some crap. Thankfully there are a few ways you can combat this behavior! Consulting with your vet will help you determine any underlying medical conditions that can be easily rectified with new meds, a change in diet, or even vitamin supplements. There are also taste-aversion products available. There are powders you can sprinkle on their food that will consequently make the poop much less appetizing. Just remember, if you have multiple dogs, you need to use the powder for all of them so all their poop is less tasty. Finally, if the poop-eating is behavioral, pinpoint why exactly their doing it. Boredom? Give them some treat puzzles or stimulating toys so they have something more entertaining to do.
As gross as coprophagia is, humans do some gross things too, so don’t be so hard on your pups if you catch them eating a little snack!