WHY DOGS EAT POOP

Why dogs eat poop?  Could anything be more yucky?  And it seems that the dogs that eat poop are also the ones that particularly like to kiss all over  you.  This is another one of those annoying dog habits that totally perplex dog owners.  Seems like we just get to thinking how smart our dogs are and then we look out into the yard and there is the Smart One with a poopsicle hanging from his mouth.  But, strange as it may seem, there are some possibly legitimate reasons why dogs eat poop:

• Possibly the dog is not getting enough food value such as protein and vitamins in his dog food.  Upgrade him to a quality brand dog food with good protein and vitamin content.

• It could be a result of "housekeeping".  You dog may be trying to hide the evidence to avoid getting into trouble.  This could especially be true if he has been punished harshly in the past for housebreaking accidents.

• Mother dogs clean the bedding area while pups are still young by eating the puppies' feces.  This trait can be picked up by a pup and become a habit.

• Your dog may be bored and start eating poop as a form or entertainment.  Make sure  he has plenty of challenging and entertaining toys to keep him occupied.

• Sometimes a dog that has worms or parasites lose nutrients and become more hungry.  Then, they will eat whatever is handy to satisfy their appetite.  Have your Vet check for this and treat if necessary.

• Stress can cause anxious behavior.  This is particularly true if the dog is confined or tied out.  Poop eating can result as a habit that helps to de-stress.

• An attention getter.  Negative attention, but hey, it's attention!

• Undigested food sometimes found in poop can seem like a real meal.  Taste is subjective you know.

Recommendations to deter poop eating:

• There are products you can get from your Vet or from pet stores that make the stool less attractive.

• Coat the stools with vinegar or a little hot sauce.

• Try to clean up after every bowel movement to eliminate temptation.

• Try adjusting your dog's diet.

• Walk the dog on a leash instead of allowing him to graze about the yard.

• Train with a "Clicker" and small treats.  As dog approaches poop say firmly "Leave It" then click .  When the dog obeys, give him a treat, saying "Good Dog".

• Mix about 4 tablespoons canned pumpkin with you dog's food.  Tastes good in the food but tastes horrible when it comes out the other end.

• Use a bike horn or other loud distraction to divert the dog's attention when he starts the poop eating act.

• Provide plenty of entertaining toys and lots of exercise to help combat boredom.