Why does my dog eat poop?

I have two dogs and they each have a revolting habit. Mally is a poop eater. Ian is a poop roller. This makes me want to lose my lunch. So why do they do it and what’s in it for them?

There seems to be a lot more science-based evidence on why dogs roll in poo. Their ancestors will have hunted for food as opposed to having a delicious meal served up to them twice daily by their human servant. Prey animals would be able to smell the presence of a dog even if they were hiding. It is thought that by rolling in the poop of another animal they could disguise that smell and be more effective hunters.

Ian has a penchant for fox poo but is not so fussy that he won’t try the occasional dog poo, dead bird or rabbit carcass. This always results in a shower, which he hates, but doesn’t seem to have made the connection between cause and effect. I have started to say the word shower when he does the rolling…..

For poo eating, the case is not so clear. There are theories but no definitive answer. Mally does not discriminate when it comes to species – fox poo, cat poo, cow poo, horse poo, rabbit and deer poo (aka doggy Revels) – they are all snacks in Mally’s book. This of course brings its own risks. For example, if a horse has recently been wormed, their poo will be toxic for a short period.

Theory 1 – They are not getting enough food or nutrients

This is unlikely if they are getting a balanced diet and are not underweight. However there may be other reasons for nutrients not being absorbed such as parasites or Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Theory 2 – It just tastes good

Hard to believe, the very thought turns my stomach. But then I don’t sniff people’s butts to learn about them so…..

Theory 3 – They have picked up on the behaviour from mum 

Nursing mums will often eat poo to keep their den clean. There is a theory that this imprints on the brain of the infant dog and they learn this behaviour.

Theory 4 – They are bored or anxious

Poo eating has been linked to the emotional wellbeing of a dog. They may do it because they have a lack of enrichment in their life, or they are stressed about something. It can also be attention seeking behaviour. Introducing enriching activities for your dog may help. Alongside your regular walks, why not introduce trick training, scatter feeding, game playing, or scent work to give their brain a great workout.

Theory 5 – They are unwell

If your dog has never engaged in this behaviour and suddenly starts, I recommend getting them checked out by the vet. This way you can rule out or understand and address any medical issues.

Whilst poo eating might be repulsive to you and I, we must never punish our dog for this behaviour, or for going to the toilet indoors (another reason a dog may eat their own poo). The best way to avoid it is to feed sufficient nutrient appropriate food and to keep your dog stimulated and healthy. And perhaps avoid the sloppy kisses if they have been snacking on this doggy delicacy.