Why Does My Dog Eat Poop (Coprophagia)? 

Causes, Health Risks, and What This Behavior May Be Telling You

By Dr. Dina Bascharon, DVM Oak Park Animal Hospital - Oak Park, IL

Serving our community since 1972. Where compassion, prevention, and Pawsitive Longevity® come together.

Poop-eating, medically known as coprophagia, is one of the most distressing behaviors pet parents encounter. While it is common in puppies, it is not considered normal in adult dogs and often signals an underlying issue worth addressing. At Oak Park Animal Hospital, we view coprophagia as a symptom, not a personality flaw.

Common Reasons Dogs Eat Poop

Puppy Behavior and Learning

Young puppies explore the world with their mouths. They will put everything and anything in their mouths. It is important to monitor them at this stage so they don’t ingest harmful things. Fecal matter can contain harmful disease. In multi-dog households, puppies may imitate their mother or other dogs. Basic training can be used as a tool to prevent unwanted behaviors. However, not all puppies outgrow coprophagia.

Nutritional Deficiencies or Malabsorption 

 Dogs may eat stool if calories are insufficient, protein or micronutrients are lacking, or food is poorly digested or absorbed. When nutrients are not absorbed properly, dogs may instinctively seek them elsewhere.From a Pawsitive Longevity® perspective, chronic malabsorption contributes to muscle loss, immune dysfunction, and premature aging. Discuss with your vet if you believe your pup is not meeting their nutritional goals.

Gastrointestinal Disease, Anxiety, Stress, or Environmental Factors

Underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatic insufficiency, or chronic parasites can drive coprophagia by altering digestion and gut signaling. Sometimes, dogs may eat stool due to separation anxiety, fear of punishment, or lack of enrichment. Behavioral stress increases cortisol, which negatively affects digestion, immunity, and longevity. It is important to assess your dog’s daily habits to get a better understanding of their health. 

Why Coprophagia Should Not Be Ignored

Eating stool exposes dogs to parasites such as Salmonella and E. coli. They can also ingest any toxins or medications excreted by other animals. If coprophagia is persistent, it deserves medical evaluation rather than punishment.

How We Approach Coprophagia at Oak Park Animal Hospital

Dr. Dina Bascharon evaluates poop-eating using a whole-dog approach, which may include dietary analysis, stool testing, parasite screening, and gastrointestinal health assessment. She also takes in consideration levels of stress and environmental changes. Addressing the root cause allows us to improve comfort, digestion, and long-term health.

Coprophagia and Pawsitive Longevity®

Pawsitive Longevity®  is about more than lifespan. It is about digestive efficiency, immune resilience, and emotional well-being. Correcting coprophagia early can improve nutrient absorption, reduce chronic inflammation, protect gut health, and improve quality of life.

Oak Park Animal Hospital 708-383-5542

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