Why Does My Dog Eat Her Poop?

There are several reasons why dogs do this rather distasteful behavior.  It is more common in female than male dogs. 

REASONS INCLUDE:

• Instinctive.  Done by females to keep the litter area clean,
• Raised with no toys (so they played with and ate their own feces),
• Raised in a dirty kennel, so they learned to lick themselves clean, thereby learning to not mind, maybe even enjoy the "flavor",
• Not fed enough when weaned, too much bulk in food, not enough nutrition, and are still hungry,
• Left in their crate too long,
• Taken away from their mom too soon,
• Medical issues, such as parasites, nutritional deficiency, absorption problems,
• Boredom and lack of exercise!  EXERCISE, EXERCISE, EXERCISE!  Tired dogs are GOOD DOGS!  Long walks, and plenty of structured playtime take the edge off, making for a less frustrated dog.

 SOLUTIONS:

 Assuming there are no medial issues needing to be addressed, here is what you can do: 

• When your dog defecates, IMMEDIATELY pick it up.
• Remove all old stools from the yard.
• When your dog turns around to eat his stools, correct him firmly, shoo him away, and put something else in his mouth…toy or treat!
• Put lemon juice, vinegar or hot sauce on his stools.
• Keep the cat’s litter box out of reach…cover it, put it in a place where your dog cannot access it.
• Put fresh pineapple in his food, or give him a piece or two after meals.  Most dogs do not like how it changes the flavor of their favorite delicacy once it's been through their system.

Obedience training is very important.  It creates a stronger bond between you and your dog.  It also makes it very clear to your dog, who is the Alpha member of your pack.  Look for a local trainer who applies positive reinforcement, punishment-free methods.

ALWAYS BE FAIR, FIRM AND CONSISTENT!

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