The Weird (But Totally Real) Reasons Behind This Gag-Worthy Behaviour

If you’ve ever caught your dog munching on, well, you know, their own (or someone else’s) poop, you’ve probably felt a mix of disgust and confusion. Is your dog part raccoon? Are they secretly a garbage disposal in disguise? While this behaviour might seem completely baffling, it’s actually more common than you think—and not as strange as it seems once you understand the science behind it. Let’s dive into this smelly mystery and see why our beloved dogs sometimes indulge in a little, uh, “dining experience.”

1. A Throwback to Their Wild Ancestors

One of the most likely reasons for poop-eating (or coprophagia, as the professionals call it) is that it’s an instinct that dates back to your dog’s wild ancestors. Kate McQueen, a dog behaviour expert, explains in her blog "Canine Quirks" that wild canines like wolves would eat the feces of other animals as a way to keep their dens clean. In the wild, keeping the den free from waste was a survival instinct, as it prevented predators from sniffing out their location.

So, while your dog may be a pampered pooch today, they could still have those survival instincts kicking in—making the backyard seem like a prime spot for a little “clean-up” operation. It’s not exactly glamorous, but it’s nature at work.

2. They’re Just Trying to Clean Up After Themselves (Literally)

If you’ve ever watched your dog try to clean up after doing their business, you might notice them munching on their own poop. It’s not an appetite issue—it’s a cleanliness thing. Dogs often instinctively eat their own stool to remove it from their environment.

Dr. Fiona Duffy, a UK vet, writes in Pet Health UK that this behaviour can sometimes be linked to a dog’s desire to keep their living space tidy. This is particularly common with puppies, who may not yet understand that poop should be left alone. Think of it as their version of “spring cleaning,” but with a rather unpleasant twist.

3. They’re Hungry for Nutrients (Or Not Getting Enough)

Sometimes, dogs eat poop because they’re not getting the right nutrition in their regular diet. James Smith, a pet nutrition expert, notes in his blog Paws and Plates that dogs, especially those on poor-quality or imbalanced diets, may turn to stool-eating as a way of seeking out nutrients they’re missing. This can include vitamins, minerals, or even enzymes that might not be present in their food.

If your dog is eating stool frequently, it could be an indication that they’re not getting the right balance of nutrients. It’s time to check in with your vet to ensure your dog’s diet is on point—and ideally, without any unwanted side dishes.

4. They’re Bored or Seeking Attention

Dogs can sometimes eat poop simply because they’re bored or looking for attention. If your dog is left alone outside for long periods, they might resort to coprophagia as a way to entertain themselves. Emily Ross, a UK dog trainer, suggests in her blog Paws and Play UK that boredom can lead dogs to develop quirky habits—poop eating being one of them.

On the other hand, if your dog notices that you react strongly when they eat poop (maybe by shouting or running to grab them), they might learn that this behaviour gets a reaction. “Positive or negative, attention is attention,” says Emily. So, the next time your dog eats poop, try not to make it a big deal. If they get the attention they crave (even if it’s a "no! Stop it!"), they might continue the behaviour just to keep you on your toes.

5. It’s Just a Phase (For Puppies, Anyway)

If you’ve ever had a puppy, you know they love to explore the world with their mouths—and that includes things they definitely shouldn’t be putting in there. Dr. Lucy Clarke, a well-known UK vet, explains that coprophagia is often just a phase for puppies. As they grow and learn more about their environment, they eventually stop eating poop (hopefully, anyway). Puppies are like toddlers—they put everything in their mouths as part of their curiosity about the world around them.

If your puppy is eating poop, it’s usually nothing to worry about. But it’s best to gently correct the behaviour with proper training and discourage it early on.

6. Medical Conditions or Stress Could Be at Play

If your dog suddenly starts eating poop after not doing so before, it might be a sign of an underlying health issue. Dr. Fiona Duffy suggests that stress, anxiety, or even certain medical conditions could trigger the behaviour. For example, a dog with gastrointestinal issues or an upset stomach might turn to poop as a way to alleviate discomfort.

If your dog’s stool-eating is a new behaviour or it’s becoming more frequent, it’s best to consult your vet to rule out any medical or behavioural concerns.

In Conclusion: Poop-Eating—It’s Gross, But It’s Not Uncommon

So, why do dogs eat poop? The reasons are varied, and while it’s certainly not the most glamorous topic, it’s actually quite natural for dogs in many cases. Whether they’re just following their instincts, cleaning up their environment, seeking out missing nutrients, or simply being playful, poop-eating is more common than you might think.

If you’re struggling with this behaviour, don’t panic—consult your vet, check your dog’s diet, and try to provide more stimulation and attention. Remember: this too shall pass, and soon enough, your dog will go back to eating their regular (non-poopy) meals. And hopefully, they’ll leave the garden waste to the compost bin.