What to Do If Your Dog Eats Poop

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Poop

Introduction

When people hear about a dog eating faeces their first reaction is usually to cringe and state how disgusting it is. As vile as it sounds dog eating it's own excrement is actually quite common behavior in dogs, it becomes an issue however when a dog is eating poop often. This article will offer solutions if you have a dog who likes to eat poop whether it be his own, another dog's or animal's poop.

The biggest question most people ask is why? Why would a dog even consider eating faeces? Here are some reasons for dog eating it's poop.

Reasons

• Your dog is hungry. If your pet is not getting the nutrients he needs from his food or is burning off his food too quickly leaving him hungry then he may go looking for something else to eat and that could be poop. This is likely to happen if he does not have access to any other source of food.
• Dog eating poop can be caused by parasites or worms. They will drain the nutrients out of your dog causing him to become hungry.
• Your dog is eating poop because he is not getting the necessary nutrients and minerals out of his diet.
• Dogs may eat poop when they are bored, lonely or crave attention and this can also be a sign of neglect.
• If you constantly punish your dog for pooping he will poop and then eat it to hide the evidence so you will not get upset with him.
• Dog eating poop can be caused if your dog is stressed, anxious or nervous.

Solutions

• Ensure you are feeding your pet enough each day and if in doubt check with your local Vet as to how much a dog of his size should be consuming each day as well as the best types of food for him.
• Your dog must be wormed and checked regularly by a Vet especially if he has been healthy and satisfied after meals and then suddenly is constantly hungry after eating.
• Dog eating poop can be prevented by making sure your dog is fed a well-balanced diet which includes food containing lots of nutrients and minerals for his health and well being.
• Your pet needs to lead an active, stimulating lifestyle. He needs to be kept busy through exercise, dog training and play. If your dog is left alone ensure he has dog toys to play with and keep him occupied. You also need to dedicate time to spend with your pet.
• Don't harshly discipline and tell your dog off when he poops. Instead train him to go in his own designated spot so he knows he can comfortably go there without being punished. Praise and encourage him when he does go in the right place.
• Dog eating poop can be prevented by making sure your dog is happy and well-balanced. If he is showing signs of stress then you will need to find out the cause of the stress, maybe a new pet has moved into the neighborhood or you have recently moved house so he is not yet comfortable with his new surroundings. If you feel it is a more serious problem then a visit to the Vet is advised.

Conclusion

Dog eating poop is not a pleasant experience for you or your pet but with the right solution and lots of patience and encouragement the poop eating should stop or decrease. If not then consult your Vet or a dog behaviorist.