Why Does My Dog Eat Poop? Causes & Fixes

Is It Medical or Behavioral?

Coprophagia (eating poop) can stem from medical or behavioral causes. Some health issues like diabetes, Cushing’s disease, intestinal malabsorption, or parasites can increase appetite or lead to nutrient deficiencies, making stool seem like a meal. If your dog eats poop and shows signs of illness—like greasy, yellow stools—see your vet. However, most cases are behavioral, not medical.

Dogs may also eat poop due to stress, boredom, or attention-seeking. If you react strongly (like yelling) when your dog eats poop, you might accidentally reinforce the behavior. Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions and may repeat actions that get a reaction—even if it’s negative.

Instinct and Learned Behavior

Eating feces is deeply rooted in dog instincts. Mother dogs clean up their puppies’ waste to keep the den clean and hide the scent from predators. Puppies often mimic this behavior and may continue it into adulthood. This is especially common in dogs raised in small, confined spaces with limited access to other bathroom areas.

Dogs are natural scavengers. What humans find disgusting—poop—can smell like food to them. Some dogs prefer frozen “poopsicles” or only eat certain types of stool, like deer or rabbit droppings. Cat poop is especially appealing due to its high protein content. If your dog sees another dog eating poop, they may copy the behavior.

How to Stop the Behavior

The most effective way to stop coprophagia is environmental control. Always clean up after your dog immediately—before she has a chance to eat it. Use a leash when outside so you can monitor her every move. If she starts to show interest in poop, interrupt her with “Leave it” and redirect her attention with a treat.

Reward her for looking at you instead of the stool. This is a form of real-life training that works best when done consistently over several months. Avoid punishing her after the fact, as this may teach her to hide her poop to avoid consequences—making the problem worse.

Diet and Mental Stimulation Matter

If your dog is underfed or eating low-quality food, she may eat poop to get more nutrients. Switch to a balanced, high-quality diet and consider feeding smaller meals throughout the day. Some dogs eat poop because they’re always hungry and see it as “two meals for the price of one.”

Boredom or stress can also trigger the behavior. Dogs left alone all day may eat poop for entertainment. Provide mental stimulation with toys, puzzles, or training games. If your dog has recently experienced a major life change—like a new baby or moving—she may be stressed and acting out.

What Not to Do

Avoid using bitter sprays or adding pepper, pineapple, or mint to feces. These often don’t work because dogs swallow food quickly, and the taste never registers. Some dogs may even have adverse reactions to these substances.

Never punish your dog after she eats poop—especially if she’s already eaten it. This can cause her to hide her waste or become anxious. Instead, focus on prevention and positive reinforcement.