why do dogs eat poop?

Question

my dog keeps eating his own poop. I am worried if this is harmful to him. I know that feces has tons of bacteria, and would like to know if its bad or not.

Esther Anderson · Accepted Answer

I've heard a number of reasons - because the poo is not fully digested so still tastes/smells like food, because they're cleaning up after themselves or because they lack nutrients but I think it depends on the individual dog.Over the years my family has had dogs that have eaten their own poo, cats poo, horses poo and duck poo (yes, disgusting I know, but apparently quite common based on conversations I've had with my friends who also have pets) and so my overall guess is that it tastes good and that's why they like it.It hasn't harmed any of them yet but the best way to avoid your dog eating it's own poo is to clean up after them straight away and try to discourage the behaviour. Other than that, I can only wish you a lot of luck - I haven't had much success myself!

Esther Anderson · Answer

Some vets theorize that this could be due to some kind of a mineral deficiency. Noone really knows for sure. I once had a Pomeranian who had an anxiety disorder and would do this all the time. Some dogs do it as a result of a psychological problem or due to anxiety. Female dogs seem to be more prone to it than males. How to stop it? Some suggest putting meat tenderizer on their food. There are also other things you can get from the vet , powders or pills, to put in their food that supposedly makes them less likely to continue eating their excrement. Ask the vet for help to get him to stop it. Or do some research online and see what has helped other people.

Esther Anderson · Answer

Because most poop still holds alot of nutriuents and sometimes they think they might need more nutrients and you don't have to worry about your dog getting sick because poop is natural and they choose to eat it they also have a strong immune system

Esther Anderson · Answer

Hi, I understand that you are looking for some advice or resources to help fully train your dog or fix behavior problems. If a professional dog trainer is not an option at this time, or if you want to trt training your dog on your own (a great way to bond), I'd suggest you https://biturl.im/aU9d1 A friend recommened it to me a few years ago, and I was amazed how quickly it worked, which is why I recommend it to others. The dog training academy also has as an excellent home training course.

Esther Anderson · Answer

Dogs eat their poop for extra nutrients. It is normal.

Esther Anderson · Answer

It's because poop had so much nutrients. It means he is not getting enough vitamins in his diet. Try changing his food. My chihuahua eats my cat's poop if that makes u feel any better

Esther Anderson · Answer

No, it's not great for him and try to prevent him if you can- sharp "no" and smack it away from poop. Usually they only do this when puppies, and this is also the time to use to train them not to touch it. You should also remove feces immediately after he is done pooping. I have wondered why they do this myself- maybe missing some nutrients and reabsorbing them in this manner?? No idea...

Esther Anderson · Answer

Don't know but my dog likes to roll in it not eat it. It's a shower a day for him everyday !!!

Esther Anderson · Answer

Haha thats definately not good, but its not like your dog is gonna die in a second. when he does go to eat it make sure you say "no!!!!!!" in a loud voice and it will scare him and not want to be by poo anymore, it worked for my dog

Esther Anderson · Answer

He is not getting enough nutrients in his diet. Try better dog biscuits.

Dr. Kole Osinski V

why do dogs eat poop?

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