Why does my dog eat poop?
Coprophagia (eating feces) is surprisingly common in dogs. While disgusting to us, it is a natural behavior rooted in canine evolution — mother dogs eat puppy feces to keep the den clean.
Quick Answer
Why does my dog eat poop? Coprophagia (eating feces) is surprisingly common in dogs. While disgusting to us, it is a natural behavior rooted in canine evolution — mother dogs eat puppy feces to keep the den clean. Common but should be discouraged. The most common reasons include instinct from early life.
Why This Happens
mother dogs eat puppy poop to clean the den
they learn it gets a big reaction from you
not digesting food properly
pancreatic insufficiency, parasites
What You Should Do
- Clean up poop immediately so they can't access it
- Ensure their diet is complete and nutritious
- Don't make a fuss — overreacting can reinforce the behavior
- Teach a strong "leave it" command
When to Be Concerned
- Sudden onset in an adult dog that never did this before
- Weight loss despite eating normally
- Eating only cat or other animal feces obsessively
- Diarrhea or digestive issues alongside the behavior
Fun Fact
A 2018 study found that 16% of dogs are "serious" poop eaters (caught 5+ times). Greedy eaters and multi-dog households had higher rates.
Other Dog Behaviors Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog eat poop?▼
Is it normal for my dog to eating poop?▼
Should I worry about my dog eating poop?▼
How do I respond when my dog eating is poop?▼
This is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for behavioral concerns. Learn more from the AKC Dog Behavior Resources.