Dog Eating Poop? Proven Home Remedies That Work

Is your dog engaging in a behavior that leaves you both puzzled and disgusted? Coprophagy, or the act of eating poop, is a relatively common yet unpleasant habit in dogs. While it might seem strange, there are several reasons why dogs do this, ranging from behavioral issues to nutritional deficiencies. Thankfully, there are many home remedies you can try to curb this habit. Let’s explore some effective strategies to help your furry friend break free from this yucky behavior.

Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?

Before diving into the solutions, understanding the reasons behind coprophagy can help you choose the most effective remedy:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Some dogs eat feces to make up for missing nutrients in their diet.
• Behavioral Issues: Boredom, anxiety, or attention-seeking can lead to this behavior.
• Enzyme Deficiency: Lack of digestive enzymes can cause a dog to seek them out in feces.
• Instinct: Mother dogs naturally consume their puppies' feces to keep the environment clean.
• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as malabsorption syndromes, can increase appetite and lead to coprophagy.

Effective Home Remedies to Stop Coprophagy

1. Improve Diet Quality

Switching to a higher-quality dog food can often make a significant difference. Look for foods rich in essential nutrients and avoid those with fillers. Consider adding supplements like a multivitamin to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet. A diet rich in probiotics can also help improve gut health, reducing the urge to consume feces. — PowerSchool: Navigating Student Success In Westerville

2. Add Digestive Enzymes

Enzyme supplements can aid in digestion and nutrient absorption. Adding these to your dog's food can help reduce the drive to seek out missing enzymes in feces. Look for supplements containing amylase, protease, and lipase.

3. Pineapple

Adding pineapple to your dog’s diet can make their stool taste unpleasant. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and alters the taste of the feces. Start with small amounts to avoid digestive upset – a few chunks mixed with their regular food should suffice. — Grace Nickels: All About The Rising Star

4. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is high in fiber and can improve digestive health. Similar to pineapple, it can also make the stool less appealing to consume. Add a tablespoon or two of pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) to your dog's food. — CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying: Road To 2026

5. Meat Tenderizer

Some meat tenderizers contain enzymes that can make feces taste bad. Sprinkle a small amount on your dog's food, but be cautious, as some dogs may be sensitive to the ingredients. Always check the label for potentially harmful additives.

6. Keep the Environment Clean

Regularly clean up your yard and living areas to remove the opportunity for your dog to indulge in this behavior. This is particularly important if you have multiple dogs, as they may be more likely to consume each other's feces.

7. Training and Supervision

Use positive reinforcement techniques to train your dog to avoid feces. When you see your dog approaching poop, use a command like "Leave it" and reward them with a treat when they obey. Consistent supervision and training can gradually break the habit.

8. Address Anxiety and Boredom

Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and puzzle toys can help alleviate anxiety and boredom, reducing the likelihood of coprophagy.

9. Bitter Apple Spray

Spraying feces with a bitter apple spray can make it unpalatable to your dog. This works as a deterrent but requires consistent application and may not be effective for all dogs.

10. Consult Your Veterinarian

If home remedies don't work, it's crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can rule out underlying medical conditions and provide tailored advice based on your dog's specific needs.

Conclusion

Dealing with coprophagy can be challenging, but with patience and the right approach, you can help your dog break this habit. By improving their diet, adding supplements, keeping the environment clean, and using consistent training techniques, you’ll be one step closer to a poop-free life. Remember, every dog is different, so what works for one may not work for another. Stay persistent and celebrate small victories along the way. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your vet. Good luck!