Dog Eats Poop? How to Stop Coprophagia

Why Dogs Eat Poop

Coprophagia—eating feces—is surprisingly common in dogs and often normal in puppies. Mother dogs eat their puppies’ waste to keep the nest clean, and puppies may copy this behavior. Some dogs continue it into adulthood due to learned habits or scavenger instincts. In the wild, herbivore poop contains nutrients, so dogs may see it as food. It can also be a sign of boredom, stress, or attention-seeking, especially if the dog is left alone or underfed.

Check for Medical Causes First

Before assuming it’s a behavioral issue, consult your vet. Conditions like pancreatitis, intestinal infections, food allergies, diabetes, or parasites can increase appetite and lead to coprophagia. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and malnutrition may also cause dogs to seek nutrients in poop. If your dog has greasy, yellow stools or shows signs of illness, get a vet checkup to rule out medical causes.

Control the Environment

The most effective way to stop poop-eating is to prevent access. Clean up after your dog immediately—every time. If the feces aren’t there, your dog can’t eat it. Keep your dog on a leash when outside so you can monitor and interrupt the behavior. Avoid letting your dog roam freely in the yard unsupervised. This is especially important if your dog has a history of eating poop or is prone to obsessive habits.

Use Training to Redirect Behavior

When you catch your dog about to eat poop, interrupt with “Leave it” and redirect attention with “Look at me.” Reward with a treat when she focuses on you instead. This turns the moment into a training opportunity. Practice this consistently over several months, using intermittent rewards to strengthen the behavior. Avoid punishing your dog—this can backfire, making her hide the evidence to avoid punishment.

Address Boredom, Stress, and Diet

If your dog eats poop for entertainment or attention, she may be bored or stressed. Changes like a new baby, moving, or long periods alone can trigger this. Increase mental stimulation with toys, puzzles, or training games. Make sure your dog gets enough food and proper nutrition. If you’ve switched to fresh or homemade food, ensure it’s balanced. Underfeeding or nutrient-deficient diets can drive dogs to seek food anywhere—even in poop.