DogOrbis · Behaviour

Why does my dog eat poop?

Coprophagia can develop through exploration, learning, repeated access to faeces or low stimulation, but medical causes should also be considered.

Quick answer

Coprophagia can develop through exploration, learning, repeated access to faeces or low stimulation, but medical causes should also be considered.

What to know

Useful management starts by preventing access: pick up faeces promptly, supervise and reinforce alternative behaviour. If the behaviour starts suddenly, is intense, or comes with weight loss, diarrhoea, excessive hunger or other changes, veterinary assessment is appropriate.