Understanding and Addressing Coprophagia in Dogs
Many wild animals, including dogs, eat feces at some point for various reasons. A female dog may consume her puppies’ feces to mask their scent, prevent starvation, or compensate for dietary deficiencies. While this behavior seems natural in the wild, we often find it repulsive. Yet, many domesticated dogs retain this instinct and occasionally engage in this natural, though unpleasant, behavior.
In the wild, mothers protect their vulnerable puppies from predators, especially when away hunting. Keeping the den scent-free is critical, as the distinct odor of milk-rich puppy feces attracts carnivores. By eating her young’s feces, the mother minimizes the den’s scent, reducing the risk of detection and protecting her litter from harm.
Domestic dogs often continue this behavior with newborns, eating their feces while the pups rely on maternal stimulation to urinate and defecate. Typically, this stops by four or five weeks, earlier than in wild dogs. However, some mothers persist in cleaning up after their pups, occasionally even into adulthood if a pup remains with her.
Most puppies experiment with coprophagia during development, much like human babies exploring their diapers. This exploratory phase is usually brief and should be discouraged, though most pups naturally outgrow it. Few dogs continue this behavior into adulthood.
Causes and Solutions for Coprophagia
In cases of scarce food, stray dogs may eat their own or others’ feces to recycle minimal nutrients, staving off hunger temporarily. Recent speculation suggests that dogs with compromised digestive systems might instinctively consume feces to gain digestive enzymes, similar to eating grass to induce vomiting. An old remedy involves feeding dogs pineapple, believed to make feces unpalatable. However, pineapple contains bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme, which may address the dog’s need for digestive support, inadvertently resolving the behavior.
Boredom is another factor. Dogs left alone for long periods with little stimulation may resort to coprophagia for entertainment, alongside behaviors like digging or escaping. Providing more toys, exercise, and interaction can alleviate boredom, typically stopping coprophagia within days.
Coprophagia is an unpleasant habit, but addressing it requires understanding the cause rather than punishing the dog. Overreacting by banishing the dog from the house can increase boredom and worsen the behavior. Instead, offer a treat to clean their mouth and maintain normal routines.
The most effective way to prevent coprophagia is to keep your yard clean. A dirty yard encourages the habit, while a clean one discourages it. Combining a clean yard with exercise and, if needed, pineapple can help your dog move away from this undesirable behavior, ensuring a happier, healthier pet.
