Why Is My Dog Eating Poop? Let’s Talk About Coprophagia
From the team at Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital

It’s one of the grossest habits our dogs can pick up—but also one of the most common questions we get: "Why is my dog eating poop?" This behavior, called coprophagia, might seem shocking, but it’s not all that unusual. At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we’re here to explain why dogs do this, when it’s a concern, and how to help them stop.

💩 What Is Coprophagia?

Coprophagia refers to the act of eating feces—either their own or another animal’s. While it may disgust us, for dogs it can be a behavioral or medical issue (or sometimes both).

🐶 Common Reasons Dogs Eat Poop

• Nutritional deficiencies: Dogs may try to “recycle” undigested nutrients.
• Boredom or anxiety: Dogs left alone or under-stimulated might engage in poop eating for attention or stress relief.
• Mimicking behavior: Puppies may imitate their mother, who licks them clean and eats their waste.
• Medical issues: Conditions like parasites, diabetes, or poor nutrient absorption can trigger the behavior.

⚠️ When to Be Concerned

If your dog suddenly starts eating poop, especially if it's accompanied by weight loss, digestive issues, or behavioral changes, it's time to schedule a vet visit. We’ll check for underlying health issues and make sure your dog is getting the right nutrients.

✅ How to Stop the Habit

• Pick up waste immediately to limit access
• Provide mental and physical stimulation
• Feed a high-quality, well-balanced diet
• Talk to your vet about supplements or deterrents if needed

Need Help with a Poop-Eating Pup?
You're not alone—and we can help! At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we’ll work with you to figure out the root cause and create a plan to curb the behavior. Book an appointment today to get your dog (and your yard) back on track!