Can Dogs Eat Their Own Poop? The Shocking Truth Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

Picture this: You’re enjoying a sunny afternoon in the backyard, tossing a ball for your pup, when suddenly—gross!—you spot them leaning down to sniff their own poop… and then eating it. Your stomach drops. You sprint over, yelling “No!” and spend the next 10 minutes trying to get them to drop the (thankfully now-spit-out) “snack.” If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Dogs eating their own poop—known as coprophagia—is one of the most common (and cringe-worthy) behaviors pet parents face. It’s natural to panic: Is this normal? Is it harmful? Could my dog be missing nutrients? And perhaps the biggest question of all: Can dogs eat their own poop, or should I stop them immediately?

In this post, we’ll dive into the messy details of coprophagia, separating fact from fiction. We’ll explore why dogs do it, the risks involved, and what you can do to keep your pup (and your sanity) safe. Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Coprophagia?
2. Can Dogs Eat Their Own Poop? The Short Answer
3. Potential “Benefits” (Do They Even Exist?)
4. The Real Risks of Dogs Eating Their Own Poop
5. How Much (If Any) Is Safe?
6. Healthier Alternatives to Poop-Eating
7. FAQ About Dogs Eating Their Own Poop
8. When to Consult Your Vet
9. Conclusion

What Is Coprophagia?

First, let’s define the term: Coprophagia (pronounced “koh-proh-fey-jee-uh”) is the act of eating feces. It’s derived from the Greek words kopros (feces) and phagein (to eat). While it sounds disgusting to us, it’s surprisingly common in the animal kingdom—including our beloved dogs.

Studies show that about 16% of dogs engage in coprophagia regularly, with puppies and younger dogs being more prone to the behavior [1]. Mother dogs, for example, instinctively eat their puppies’ poop for the first few weeks of life to keep the den clean and protect the litter from predators (since feces can attract unwanted attention). In the wild, some canids (like wolves or foxes) might eat poop to hide their scent from prey or recycle undigested nutrients.

But domestic dogs? Their reasons for chowing down on poop are often more complex—and not always harmless.

Can Dogs Eat Their Own Poop? The Short Answer

No, dogs should not eat their own poop.

While it’s a common behavior, there’s no nutritional or health benefit to it, and it poses significant risks to your dog’s health. Even if your pup seems fine after sneaking a “snack,” the habit can lead to infections, parasites, or worse over time.

In short: Just because they do it doesn’t mean they should.

Potential “Benefits” (Do They Even Exist?)

You might wonder: If dogs evolved to eat poop, could there be hidden benefits? Let’s address the elephant (or, uh, poop) in the room.

Myth: “Dogs eat poop to get missing nutrients.”

Some people assume dogs eat poop because they’re deficient in vitamins, minerals, or fiber. While nutrient deficiencies can drive unusual eating behaviors (like pica, where dogs eat non-food items), there’s no evidence that poop provides meaningful nutrition.

Think about it: Poop is waste. By the time food exits your dog’s body, most nutrients have already been absorbed. What’s left is indigestible fiber, bacteria, and toxins. If your dog is seeking nutrients, they’re better off getting them from a balanced diet—not their own waste.

Myth: “It’s a ‘natural’ behavior, so it must be okay.”

Yes, mother dogs and wild canids eat poop, but that doesn’t translate to domestic dogs. Mother dogs stop this behavior once puppies are weaned, and wild canids live in environments where food is scarce. Your dog, on the other hand, has access to regular meals, clean water, and veterinary care. There’s no “need” for them to eat poop.

The Bottom Line:

There are no real “benefits” to dogs eating their own poop. Any instinctual or evolutionary reasons for the behavior don’t apply to healthy, well-cared-for pets. In fact, if your dog is eating poop, it’s often a red flag for an underlying issue (more on that later).

The Real Risks of Dogs Eating Their Own Poop

Now, let’s get to the scary part: Why not let your dog eat their own poop. The risks are more serious than you might think.

1. Bacterial Infections

Poop is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, or Campylobacter. Even if your dog is healthy, their gut contains these bacteria in small amounts—but eating poop can overload their system, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or severe gastrointestinal infections.

2. Parasites

Feces can harbor parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or tapeworms. If your dog eats poop containing parasite eggs, those eggs can hatch in their intestines, leading to an infestation. Symptoms might include weight loss, a dull coat, or diarrhea—and treating parasites often requires multiple vet visits and medications.

3. Toxins or Foreign Objects

If your dog ate something toxic (like chocolate, grapes, or xylitol) before pooping, their feces could still contain traces of the toxin. Eating that poop could re-expose them to the poison, leading to kidney failure, seizures, or death.

Similarly, if your dog swallowed a foreign object (like a toy fragment or string) that passed in their stool, eating the poop could cause the object to get stuck in their throat or intestines—resulting in choking or a blockage (which often requires surgery).

4. Stomach Upset

Even “clean” poop (from a healthy dog on a good diet) is indigestible and can irritate your dog’s stomach. This can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or gas—none of which are fun for you or your pup.

5. Behavioral Reinforcement

The more your dog eats poop, the more they’ll want to do it. It can become a compulsive habit, making it harder to break over time.

How Much (If Any) Is Safe?

There is no “safe” amount of poop for dogs to eat.

Even a tiny bite can expose them to bacteria or parasites. For example, a single parasite egg in poop is enough to cause an infestation. And since you can’t know what was in your dog’s last meal (or their poop), there’s no way to gauge “safety.”

The best rule: Prevent access entirely. Clean up your dog’s poop immediately after they go, and supervise them closely during potty breaks (especially in the yard or on walks).

Healthier Alternatives to Poop-Eating

If your dog is obsessed with poop, they’re likely seeking something—whether it’s attention, stimulation, or (rarely) nutrients. Here are safer ways to satisfy their cravings:

1. Address Nutritional Gaps

If you suspect your dog is eating poop due to nutrient deficiencies, talk to your vet about switching to a high-quality, balanced diet. Look for foods with:

• Fiber: To support digestion (pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or green beans are great additions).
• Probiotics: To keep their gut healthy (yogurt, kefir, or vet-recommended probiotic supplements).
• Protein: High-quality animal protein (chicken, beef, or fish) to prevent cravings for “alternative” protein sources (like poop).

2. Keep Them Busy

Boredom is a common trigger for coprophagia. Dogs need mental and physical stimulation! Try:

• Longer walks or play sessions (aim for 30–60 minutes of activity daily, depending on breed).
• Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing balls (like Kongs) to keep their brain engaged.
• Training sessions (teach new tricks!) to redirect their focus.

3. Use Deterrents

There are products designed to make poop unappealing to dogs, like:

• Bitter sprays: Apply to poop (or your dog’s rear end, briefly) to make the taste repulsive.
• Food additives: Some vets recommend adding pineapple, spinach, or parsley to your dog’s food—these make poop taste bitter to dogs (but are safe for them to eat).

Note: Always check with your vet before using deterrents, as some can upset your dog’s stomach.

4. Offer Safe Chew Toys

If your dog likes to “mouth” things, give them appropriate outlets:

• Rubber chew toys (like Nylabones) to satisfy their need to gnaw.
• Dental chews (approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council) to clean their teeth and keep them occupied.

FAQ About Dogs Eating Their Own Poop

Q: Why does my dog eat their own poop?

A: Common reasons include:

• Boredom or anxiety.
• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., lack of fiber or enzymes).
• Medical issues (like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes, or thyroid problems).
• Instinct (puppies exploring, mother dogs cleaning, or leftover wild behavior).
• Attention-seeking (if you react strongly, they might do it to get a reaction).

Q: Is it normal for puppies to eat their own poop?

A: Puppies are more likely to eat poop than adult dogs—they explore the world with their mouths! Most grow out of it by 6–12 months. If it continues past puppyhood, though, it’s time to investigate underlying causes.

Q: Will eating poop make my dog sick immediately?

A: Not always. Some dogs eat poop for years without obvious issues. But over time, the risk of infection, parasites, or toxins increases. It’s a “slow burn” danger—not always immediate.

Q: How can I stop my dog from eating poop?

A: Combine strategies:

• Clean up poop right away.
• Supervise potty breaks and use a “leave it” command.
• Address boredom or anxiety with exercise and training.
• Rule out medical issues with your vet.

When to Consult Your Vet

If your dog eats poop regularly (more than once a week), or if they show any of these symptoms after eating poop, contact your vet immediately:

• Vomiting or diarrhea (especially with blood).
• Lethargy or loss of appetite.
• Weight loss or a dull coat.
• Seizures or tremors (signs of toxin exposure).

Your vet can run tests to check for parasites, nutrient deficiencies, or medical conditions (like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which impairs nutrient absorption). They might also recommend behavior modification or dietary changes.

Conclusion

Dogs eating their own poop is gross, but it’s rarely a sign that your dog is “bad.” More often, it’s a habit driven by instinct, boredom, or (sometimes) medical issues.

The bottom line: There’s no benefit to letting your dog eat poop, and plenty of risks. By cleaning up promptly, addressing underlying causes (like boredom or diet), and consulting your vet if the behavior persists, you can help your pup kick the habit for good.

Remember: You’re not alone in this! Coprophagia is one of the most common behavior questions vets get—and with patience, you can keep your dog (and your yard) poop-free.

Here’s to happier, healthier potty breaks!

References

[1] Hart, B. L., et al. (2018). “Coprophagia in Dogs: A Review of Behavioral and Medical Causes.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 26, 1–8.
[2] American Kennel Club (AKC). “Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? The Truth About Coprophagia.”
[3] American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). “Coprophagia in Pets.”
[4] VCA Animal Hospitals. “Eating Feces (Coprophagia) in Dogs.”