[lizrob12]

My dog has been eating his poop. Is this normal? Can he get sick from it?

[Alty]

Is your dog a border collie? Border collies are well known for eating their poop, other breeds do it as well, but border collies are well known for this behaviour. It is a natural instinct, quite normal, but a nasty habit as far as we're concerned. Try cleaning up after him everyday, the more tidy his area is, the less likely he'll have any poop to eat.

Good Luck.

[plonak]

I worked at a vet hospital several years ago, and my boss said it's normal.. yes, it's really gross, but it's not harmful. They don't have a complete answer as to why they do this, but some speculate that the dogs body is craving certain vitamins and so it gives them the urge to eat the poo.. now don't worry, you're dog is fine I'm sure, I think it's a miss signal in the brain.. you can buy some powder type stuff to put on their food that will satisfy their bodies.. hope that helped

[teachnk]

I don't think there is an answer to your question as to "why?". However, there are products on the market such as Forbid and Deter that will make it less appetizing to them - if you can imagine that! You just mix it in their food. I remember someone suggesting a little Pineapple juice in their food can do the same.

[labman]

The best solution to stool eating, coprophagy, is cleaning them up before the dog has a chance. You can try food additives, the home remedies pineapple juice or canned pumpkin or the commercial products Forbid or Deter.

Why dogs do it is poorly understood. It may be diet related, but changing the dog's diet might cause worse problems. Whatever problems it causes for the owner, it doesn't seem to hurt the dog unless you are trying to clear up a worm infestation.

There is no excuse for hitting a dog. Those that suggest such should be banned from giving dog advice.

[Alty]

Labman, could you point out where someone suggested hitting the dog, I can't find it. I know that people on other threads have discussed it, and many of us, myself included, have banded together to say that hitting a dog is never the answer. I do agree with you, but I can't find any post on this thread that recommended hitting the dog, a bit confused.

[danielnoahsmommy]

My dog loooves poop. Additives to her food have done nothing to stop it. To prevent her from eating it. I clean the yard regularly. If she does get a mouth full I give her a few activated charcoal caps and pray she does not vomit.

[labman]

I also reported it as abusive and the post has disappeared. To keep down the speculation, it was Twinkydooty. I wonder if the one where I was called a snob disappeared too. I guess if thinking I know more about dogs than many due to my extensive experience, training with the best, and reading makes me a snob, I am a snob.