4 Ways to Stop Your Dog from Eating his Own Poop

Coprophagia (the consumption of feces) is a common problem that many dog owners experience with their pets. Coprophagia happens in may forms. It could be when dogs eat their own poop or when dogs eat the poop of other dogs. Here are some steps that may help reduce the likelihood of dogs eating their own poop.

1. Address the health or dietary issue

We recommend getting a diagnosis from the vet if you haven’t already done so. Some dogs may eat their own poop due to dietary issues or underlying health problems. You won’t be able to stop your dog from eating his own poop unless these underlying issues are addressed.

According to VCA hospitals, some dogs may eat their own poop if they have any medical problems that reduces the digestive system’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. As a result, dogs that start eating their own poop may also display gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. You should have your dog seen by the vet if they show such symptoms.

2. Pick up and discard the poop

In the meantime, you will need to figure out short-term solutions to stop your dog from eating his own poop. This will take a bit of effort but you need to try and pick up and discard the poop as soon as the dog has finished his toilet business. This is much easier if your dog follows a specific pooping schedule every day.

3. Squirt the poop with something undesirable

If it’s not possible for you to discard the poop immediately after the dog is done, you could then try making the poop unappetizing. This is to reduce the likelihood of your dog eating his poop until you have time to pick up and discard it.

One way might be to put hot sauce on the dog’s poop (check with the vet first in case the hot sauce poses any other problems for the dog). Your dog will eventually learn that it’s unpleasant to sniff and eat the poop. Make sure to reward the dog whenever he walks away. Bitter apple spray could also work as an alternative.

4. Add Canned Pumpkin to their Meals
This is a hit-or-miss but worthwhile trying given how simple it is to do. Adding a spoonful of canned pumpkin to your dog’s meal may help discourage their poop-eating behavior. The pumpkin supposedly makes the poop taste bad for the dog. Adding a small amount of pineapple may also have the same effect.