Why do dogs eat poo, and how can you stop it?

It is one of the less pleasant things dogs do, but eating poo is surprisingly common. The vet term is coprophagia. Some dogs eat their own poo, some prefer other dogs', and many will happily eat fox, cat, horse or farm animal droppings on walks. Understanding why your dog does it is the first step to stopping it.

Why dogs eat poo

There is rarely a single cause, and for many dogs it is a mix of habit and opportunity.

Natural and puppy behaviour

Mother dogs clean up after their young puppies, so the behaviour is natural in some situations. Puppies explore the world with their mouths and may copy what they see. Many grow out of it, especially if poo is cleared away quickly so the habit never forms.

Boredom and attention

Dogs left alone for long periods, or without enough exercise and mental stimulation, may find their own entertainment. If eating poo gets a big reaction from you, a dog may also learn that it is a good way to get attention.

Stress and anxiety

Changes at home, being kept in a small space, or worry about being left can all play a part.

Learned from being told off

Dogs who have been punished for toileting in the wrong place may learn to hide the evidence. This is one reason toilet training should always use rewards, not telling off.

Hunger and diet

Some dogs are simply very food-motivated. A dog who is hungry, on a strict diet, or fed food that doesn't suit them may scavenge more. Poo from other animals, especially cats and herbivores, can contain undigested food that dogs find tempting.

Health problems

Sometimes eating poo is linked to a medical cause, such as intestinal parasites, a condition that makes a dog unusually hungry, or a problem with digesting or absorbing food. Some medicines can also increase appetite. Only a vet can check for these.

When to see a vet

Book an appointment with your vet if:

• the habit starts suddenly, especially in an adult dog;
• your dog is losing weight or seems hungrier than usual;
• your dog has diarrhoea, vomiting, a dull coat or less energy;
• your dog is older, or has other health conditions;
• the habit continues despite your efforts to manage it.

Your vet can examine your dog, check for parasites and other health problems, and advise whether a change of diet might help. Don't add supplements or change your dog's food drastically without their advice.

If your dog seems unwell, is repeatedly vomiting, or you think they may have eaten something harmful, contact a vet straight away.

Worming and hygiene

Poo can carry worms, other parasites and bacteria, and some of these can spread to people. Droppings from horses and farm animals may also contain traces of animal medicines.

• Keep your dog up to date with worming and other parasite control. Your vet will advise on a schedule that suits your dog's lifestyle.
• Pick up after your dog straight away, at home and on walks.
• Keep cat litter trays where your dog can't reach them.
• Wash your hands after handling poo, and after your dog has licked you if they have been scavenging.
• Discourage your dog from licking faces, especially children's.

How to stop your dog eating poo

Remove the opportunity

The simplest fix is to make sure there is nothing to eat. Clear your garden promptly, go out with your dog at toilet times, and pick up as soon as they have finished. On walks, keep your dog close or on a lead in areas where you know there are droppings, such as fields with livestock or horses.

Teach "leave it"

1. Hold a treat in a closed hand and let your dog sniff it.
2. Wait. The moment your dog moves away, say "yes" and give a different, better treat from your other hand.
3. Practise until your dog moves away as soon as you show your closed hand, then add the cue "leave it".
4. Gradually practise with less tempting items on the floor, then outdoors.

Always reward generously when your dog leaves something. Make the reward worth more than what they gave up.

Build a strong recall

A reliable recall lets you call your dog away before they reach the poo. Reward your dog every time they come back, and practise in many places so it works on walks. A long line can help while you train.

Reward what you want

After your dog has been to the toilet, call them to you and give a treat or play a game. This gives them something better to do than turning round to investigate.

Meet their needs

Make sure your dog gets enough exercise, sniffing time, play and brain games such as food puzzles and scatter feeding. A tired, contented dog is less likely to go looking for trouble.

Stay calm

Avoid shouting or chasing. A big reaction can turn eating poo into a game, or teach your dog to gulp it down quickly before you get there. Never punish your dog for this behaviour.

If the habit persists after a vet check, a qualified trainer or behaviourist who uses reward-based methods can help.