Why Do Dog Eat Their Own Poop

Dogs are known to eat their feces or the feces of other animals.  This behavior of dogs is known as coprophagia.  There are a few theories as to why dogs eat feces, but there are not any hard-core reasons.  Some attribute this behavior to the past of dogs, such as being carnivores in the wild, where as others suggest it is because of lack of nutrients.  Rabbits, rats, and horses are among the other animals that often eat their own feces.

It is suggested that many dog foods do not contain enough protein and enzymes needed for the proper digestion for a dog's digestive system.  Veterinarians suggest comparing the nutritional components in dog food before buying if you do not consult with your veterinarian first.  All animals have good bacteria inside of their digestive tract, however sometimes the bad bacteria outnumber the good bacteria.  If this imbalance occurs, then dog feels the need to gather nutrients from other places than its dog bowl.  Therefore, they feed on their own feces or the feces of others.

Other thoughts of why dogs eat their own poop are linked to stress, hunger, to clean up living space, or just plain old habit.  Coprophagia is difficult to control.  Veterinarians suggest placing a seasoning such as garlic or a tad bit of paprika in a dog's food.    Overall, the best way to stop a dog from eating its own feces is to pick up after the dog poops as soon as possible.  Dogs eating their own poop are not appealing and owners need to try and curtail the issue.  Talk to a professional or stop at a local pet store to consult on your dog's coprophagia or you can try a product such as Solid Gold S.E.P. (Stop Eating Poop) that help you dog not to eat their own poop.