How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop: 8 Proven Strategies

Introduction

Coprophagia, or the act of eating poop, is a common issue for many pet owners. It’s not only unpleasant, but it can also be dangerous for your pup. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to get your dog to stop eating poop. In this article, we’ll discuss eight proven methods to help keep your pup away from the poo.

Provide Plenty of Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Exercise is essential for all dogs, regardless of age. Not only does it keep them physically fit, but it also helps them relieve stress and provides mental stimulation. According to research, dogs that are well exercised are less likely to engage in undesirable behaviors such as eating poop.¹

To ensure your pup is getting enough exercise, take them on daily walks, play fetch, and try agility courses. Additionally, you can provide mental stimulation by teaching them new tricks, playing hide-and-seek with treats, and introducing puzzle toys.

Feed a High-Quality Diet

Nutrition plays an important role in keeping your pup healthy and happy. Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential for their overall wellbeing. Make sure you’re providing them with the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.² Avoid feeding them table scraps and other unhealthy foods, as these can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Also, make sure they’re getting enough water throughout the day.

You should also avoid feeding them food that contains artificial flavors and preservatives, as these can make them more likely to eat poop. Instead, opt for a high-quality, natural diet.

Monitor Your Dog’s Bathroom Habits

It’s important to monitor your pup’s bathroom habits. This will help you identify if they are having any digestive issues that could be causing them to eat poop. If you notice that they are having frequent bouts of diarrhea or constipation, contact your veterinarian for further advice.

Additionally, pay attention to where they are eliminating. If they are going in the same spot over and over again, they may be eating their own poop. Monitor the area, and if you notice them eating their feces, distract them immediately and take them outside to finish their business.

Add Fiber to Their Diet

Adding dietary fiber to your pup’s diet can help reduce their desire to eat poop. Dietary fiber helps promote digestion and can help reduce feelings of hunger. Some great sources of dietary fiber include pumpkin, sweet potatoes, broccoli, apples, and oats.³ You can also incorporate fiber supplements into your pup’s diet.

Make sure you’re adding dietary fiber gradually, as too much too quickly can cause digestive problems. Start by adding a small amount and gradually increase the amount over time.

Use Bitter-Tasting Sprays or Deterrents

Bitter-tasting sprays or deterrents can be an effective way to discourage your pup from eating poop. These sprays contain a bitter flavor that most dogs find unappealing. You can apply the spray directly to the poop or around the area where your pup eliminates. The smell and taste of the spray will deter them from eating their feces.

There are many different types of bitter sprays available, so make sure to find one that is specifically designed for dogs. Additionally, make sure to follow the instructions carefully when applying the spray.

Distract Them When They Start to Eat Poop

If your pup begins to eat their poop, it’s important to distract them immediately. You can do this by clapping your hands, making loud noises, or calling their name. The sudden noise will startle them and cause them to stop what they’re doing. Then, take them outside to finish their business.

You can also use treats as a distraction. Whenever your pup starts to eat their poop, offer them a treat instead. The tasty treat will be much more appealing than the poop, and it will help reinforce the idea that eating their feces is not acceptable behavior.

Consult with a Veterinarian or Behaviorist

If you’ve tried all of the above methods and your pup is still eating their poop, it’s best to consult with a professional. A veterinarian or behaviorist can help you identify any underlying medical or behavioral issues that might be causing your pup to eat their feces. They can also provide additional strategies to help stop the behavior.

When consulting with a professional, make sure to ask questions about your pup’s diet, exercise routine, and bathroom habits. Additionally, ask about any potential medical issues that could be contributing to the behavior. Armed with this information, the professional can develop a customized plan to help stop your pup from eating their poop.

Conclusion

Coprophagia, or the act of eating poop, is a common issue for many pet owners. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to get your dog to stop eating poop. Make sure to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, feed a high-quality diet, add fiber to their diet, use bitter-tasting sprays, and distract them whenever they start to eat their poop. If these methods don’t work, consult with a veterinarian or behaviorist for further advice.