You’re out on a walk, enjoying the fresh air, when suddenly… your dog does the unthinkable. Yup. They go for it. Their own poop — or worse, someone else’s. If you’re gagging while reading this, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: as gross as it seems, coprophagia (the scientific name for poop-eating) is surprisingly common in dogs. Studies show that 16–23% of dogs regularly engage in this stinky habit. So why do dogs eat own poop — and more importantly, how can you stop it? Let’s dig in.
1. 🧬 Instincts From Their Ancestors
In the wild, wolves sometimes ate poop to keep their dens clean and reduce parasites. While your pup lives in a cozy home and eats good food, those instincts can still show up.
Science backs this up: a study in Veterinary Medicine and Science found poop-eating was more common in multi-dog households, likely as a leftover “den-cleaning” behavior.
👉 Translation: Your dog thinks they’re helping tidy up — but their idea of “cleaning” makes us cringe.
2. 🍽️ Nutrient Deficiency or Digestive Issues
Another big reason why does my dog eat poop is nutritional imbalance. If food isn’t digested properly, it can still seem appealing when it comes out the other end (gross, but true).
Possible causes include:
- Low-quality dog food that isn’t easily absorbed
- Lack of digestive enzymes
- Medical issues like malabsorption
Think of it like undercooked pasta — not great for us, but your dog might still see it as leftovers worth eating.
3. 🐕 Boredom or Attention-Seeking
Sometimes puppy eating own poop is simply about boredom. Other dogs realize that nothing gets your attention faster than snacking on a fresh “poopsicle.”
Dog logic: “If I can’t get Mom to notice me, maybe she’ll pay attention if I eat this.” (Spoiler: they’re right.)
4. 😬 Stress and Anxiety
Anxious or stressed dogs may eat poop as a coping mechanism. Shelter dogs, for example, show this behavior more often. It’s their version of stress-eating — except way nastier than ice cream.
✅ How to Stop Dog Eating Poop (Without Losing Your Mind)
Now for the part every pet parent wants to know: how to stop dog eating poop. Luckily, there are simple solutions:
- Visit the Vet First
Rule out medical problems like parasites or enzyme deficiencies. - Clean Up Right Away
Don’t give them the chance — scoop the yard or litter box quickly. - Keep Them Busy
More walks, toys, and playtime help prevent boredom and reduce poop-snacking. - Train with Commands
A strong “leave it” works wonders. Reward them when they listen. - Try Nutripetz “No Poo Treats”
Our natural treats are designed to:- Support digestion for better nutrient absorption
- Make poop less appealing (yes, really)
- Improve gut health & overall nutrition
🐾 Translation: healthier digestion = less interest in poop, and happier kisses for you.
🎯 Final Thoughts
If you’ve been wondering why is my dog eating poop, the answer is usually a mix of instincts, nutrition, and behavior. The good news? It’s common, fixable, and your dog isn’t trying to ruin your day.
With better nutrition, consistent training, and the right supplements, you can finally say goodbye to this gross little habit.
👉 Try Nutripetz No Poo Treats today — because dog kisses should smell like love, not… well, you know.
