Coprophagia

 

A big word, nasty thing. Coprophagia is the act of dog’s eating their own (or others’) poo. The term may possibly cover more than dogs, but we’re definitely not going there.

 

Coprophagia is not rare. People don’t talk about it as they’re so embarrassed. You would be surprised how many owners go through this.  So here’s the skinny:

 

What is it?

Dogs gobble up their own poo at home or other dog’s poo while out on walks.  Do you want a face lick from that dog???  We are ABSOLUTELY NOT going to tell you it’s ok. It isn’t. It’s gross. It needs fixing. Good news is it can be fixed.

 

Why?

• Almost never hunger. If you think your dog is hungry and eating poo, then feed him FFS. (Disclaimer for labs). If your dog is well fed but you think he’s still eating because he’s hungry, then it’s off to the vet for you.
• It’s often a learned behaviour from mum. (not you! Doggy mum) If the breeders don’t keep mum and the pups immaculately clean (No hate, it’s a tough job). Then SOME mums will clean up themselves. Pups see this and bingo, a behaviour is learned.
• Pups will sometimes eat poo (theirs or littermates) out of interest. This normally goes away because, well it’s not very interesting.
• Under-stimulated dogs can do it because getting shouted at is better than nothing.

 

What to do?

• It’s almost always a bad habit. Break the habit.
• For a MONTH. Don’t let your dog poo alone. Go with her. Every time. Don’t fail. Clean up immediately. Give her treats or fun. Teach her that there are better things after pooing than lunch.
• Keep her on a lead on walks. When she goes to eat a jobbie, distract her and again, treats and playtime. Make poo boring in comparison with what you can offer.

 

That all sound great. Everything is easy on paper. If you need help, give us a call, we can help you get it sorted. Dog kisses back on the menu!