Dog Walker Discusses the The Unmentionable Habit of Dogs

The Unmentionable Habit of Dogs

Dogs eating the remnants of its or other animals’ digestive process is a problem (coprophagy) and a nightmare for a dog’s owner. Of course this behavior needs to be curtailed for the dog lover’s sanity and especially for the overall well-being of the dog. Though this is revolting, disturbing, and always stomach wrenching this is not out of character for a dog.  So take your time to understand and research the issue at hand. Typically, this is something commonly seen in puppies, but is observed at many stages in a dog’s life.  To date, there are many hypotheses as to why a dog may partake in this behavior, but there is not enough research to exactly pinpoint “Why for the love of GOD?”.  But the good news is most theories on this topic can be grouped under two main headings for simplicity: behavioral disorders and health issues.

1- Behavior Disorders

One reasons could be fear of further punishment for accidents in the house where many owners (sadly) rub their canines nose in its feces and urine.  This is by all accounts an outrageous punishment and may lead to a dog eating its own excrement to avoid further punishment.

Other hypothesis include the simple hard wiring of evolution.  Prior to the domestication of dogs, gray wolfs the closest ancestor of dogs, eat their litters’ poop in order to remove the sent thereby protecting offspring from potential predators.

Many more hypothesis abound and continued study needs to be done on this behavior.    

2- HEALTH PROBLEMS

If the above behavioral issues don’t seem to fit the reasons why and you think that your dog is eating his or her feces because of health issues you should make sure to take your dog to see its veterinarian. Your vet may be able to identify a nutritional problem that could curtail your dogs tendencies with a few blood tests.

Without saying, if your dog does partake in these actions make sure to bring him/her up to date on its vaccinations.  The reason is simple, a lot of diseases and parasites from feces can seriously harm your beloved pet.

The following lists, though not exhaustive, can help you pinpoint some reasons and preventatives.

Reasons

• Maybe an appealing taste.
• Maybe it is do to boredom, stress, and/or a lack of attention.
• A puppy may be deficient of certain vitamins and minerals.
• Fear of punishment as mentioned above.
• Evolutionary reasons as well as cleanliness.
• Copycat behavior of other members of the pact which are higher in the peaking order.
• According to one theory, fido may be coping you clean up after him.
• Other possibilities include overfeeding. Dogs that feed on high amounts of food may not completely digest all the food and may still smell like food.
• In some dogs poop eating can occur during treatments with certain drugs and antibiotics.
• A dramatic change in diet (such as switching to a different food) can also be a reason.

Preventatives

• Follow a well balanced diet.
• Consistency in amounts and times of meals.
• Keep your dog’s living area clean and comfortable.
• Provide consistent and appropriate regular exercise and play.
• Strong training and commands such as “drop it” and “leave it”. If your dog sees you as a leader, this command will  work instantly.
• Add a spoonful of crushed pineapple to your dog’s daily feeding. Some hypothesize that pineapple creates a bad taste when digested. Other additives include pumpkin and spinach.

Rather any of these methods work for your canine friend be sure to work towards the betterment and improvement of yours and its life. The rewards are great and the sacrifice is minimal.