Coprophagia in Dogs: Causes and Management

Understanding Coprophagia

Coprophagia, the behaviour of dogs eating their own or other dogs' faeces, can be common, especially in young animals.

• Normal Behaviour or Sign of Illness: While it can be a result of curiosity or a behavioural habit, coprophagia might also indicate underlying health issues.
• Possible Causes: Dogs may eat faeces due to nutritional deficiencies, changes in gut flora, or digestive disorders like liver or kidney issues.
• Behavioural Aspects: Addressing coprophagia involves behavioural training to discourage the habit and improve recall.
• Training Tips: Work on recall training using preferred toys or treats to redirect their attention away from faeces.
• Using Toys: Some dogs may be deterred from eating faeces if they carry a toy or object in their mouth.

When to Consult Your Vet

If coprophagia is unusual for your dog or if it occurs suddenly, consult your vet to rule out underlying medical conditions.

Observing when and why your dog eats faeces (e.g., after meals, after vomiting) can provide valuable information for diagnosis.

Managing coprophagia involves a combination of behavioural training and veterinary consultation to ensure your dog's health and wellbeing.