Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? 5 Reasons for This and How to End Such Behavior

The best thing about dogs is how loving and energetic they can be, but there is one aspect of their behavior that leaves most dog owners confused: poop-eating. This bad behavior, known as coprophagia, is more common than you might expect. Follow along to learn why dogs bite their paws and, perhaps, more importantly, what you can do to help them stop.

Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?
One Step on the Mat and You Try to Clean the Paw

One of the more sensible explanations as to why dogs will eat poop, is to keep themselves clean. If they inadvertently step into it, they may instinctively lick their feet to rid themselves of the mess, and that response can quickly become a habit.

PRO TIP: Prevent the issue before it has a chance to occur by putting on the Suspender Boot Leggings, which will act as a protective barrier between your pup’s paws and a world of adventurous exploration.

Instinctual Behavior

Dogs are descended from wolves, which eat feces to keep their dens clean and minimize scents that might attract predators. That primal instinct rears its head at times in our tamed friends.

Nutritional Deficiency

If your dog isn’t getting the right nutrients from their meals, they might eat poop to supplement. To prevent all this, it is very important to provide a balanced, high-quality diet.

Read Superfoods For Dogs to help your pup get the nutrition they need!

Attention-Seeking Behavior

Dogs are smart, and they love attention — even negative attention can be rewarding. If they see that it gets a reaction from you, they may persist in eating the feces.

Stress or Anxiety

Coprophagia can result from stress or anxiety, especially among dogs living in stressful environments. Not only a consistent routine, but enrichment, and lots of love, yes, can ease your puppies’ anxiety.

How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop

Clean Your Yard Regularly

If you keep your yard poop-free, there’s nothing to tempt you. Eco Friendly Handle-Tie Poop Bags.

Protect Their Paws

The best way to break the habit is to prevent contact with feces. Outfitting your dog with Suspender Boot Leggings shields their paws from dirt, bacteria, and other noxious forces.

Supervise Outdoor Time

Be ever watchful when your dog is outdoors. If they try to eat poop, tell them “Leave it” in a firm voice. Leashes and training tools help keep pets in check.

Read More: View our post about Essential Dog Walking Accessories for a guide to making your walks as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Provide Mental Stimulation

Interactive toys, training sessions, and exercise are ways to keep your pup engaged. The mind has less time to indulge in unwelcome activity.

Why Paw Protection is Key

Stepping in poop is the most common way that dogs acquire this behavior. Just as we put on shoes to keep our feet clean, dogs can appreciate protective footgear. With our suspenders dog boot leggings, there is no need to worry, so they will be kept safe, clean and free of nasty germs on every adventure.