How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop Science Backed Deterrents That Work

Dogs eating feces—known as coprophagia—is one of the most distressing behaviors pet owners face. While it may seem bizarre or even revolting to humans, it’s a surprisingly common issue among dogs. The good news: it's not just a behavioral quirk with no solution. Modern veterinary research has identified both the underlying causes and evidence-based methods to effectively reduce or eliminate this habit. This guide explores the science behind why dogs eat poop and delivers practical, proven deterrents that work.

Understanding Why Dogs Eat Poop

Coprophagia affects up to 24% of dogs at some point in their lives, according to studies published in the journal Veterinary Medicine and Science. While occasional stool consumption may stem from curiosity, persistent behavior often points to deeper physiological or psychological factors.

The reasons dogs engage in coprophagia fall into three main categories:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Incomplete digestion or poor-quality diets can leave nutrients in feces, making them appealing to dogs.
• Behavioral Triggers: Boredom, anxiety, attention-seeking, or learned behavior (especially in multi-dog households) can reinforce the habit.
• Instinctual Roots: Mother dogs naturally clean their puppies’ waste during early development. Some adult dogs retain this instinct, especially in confined spaces.

While myths persist—like the idea that dogs eat poop due to “lack of enzymes”—scientific analysis shows no consistent link between enzyme supplements and reduced coprophagia. Instead, successful interventions target root causes through diet, environment, and training.

Tip: Observe when and where your dog eats poop—immediately after defecation, in certain locations, or only specific types (e.g., cat feces). This helps identify triggers.

Science-Backed Deterrents That Work

Not all poop-eating deterrents are created equal. Many over-the-counter sprays and food additives lack clinical validation. However, several approaches have been tested in controlled studies and shown measurable success.

1. Dietary Modification with Enzyme-Rich Additives

While standalone enzyme supplements don’t reliably stop coprophagia, certain food additives designed to alter stool palatability have demonstrated effectiveness. One study found that a supplement containing yeast fermentation product and protein extract reduced stool consumption in 79% of dogs after one week of daily use.

The mechanism isn’t about adding missing enzymes but rather changing the taste and smell of feces. These products make stools less appealing by increasing bitterness and altering microbial composition.

2. Taste Aversion Training

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, tested a method combining immediate consequence with aversive conditioning. When dogs attempted to eat feces, owners used a firm verbal interrupt (“Leave it!”) followed by redirection to a high-value treat.

Over four weeks, dogs exposed to this protocol reduced coprophagic episodes by an average of 83%. The key was consistency: every single incident had to be interrupted and replaced with a positive alternative.

3. Environmental Management: The “Poop Patrol” Strategy

A 2020 study in Applied Animal Behaviour Science showed that prompt fecal removal is the single most effective intervention. Dogs given access to feces within 2 minutes of defecation were significantly more likely to consume it than those in cleaned environments.

Owners who picked up waste immediately and restricted access to litter boxes or neighbor’s yards saw a 92% reduction in incidents within two weeks.

“Consistency in cleaning and supervision is more effective than any supplement. If the poop isn’t there, the dog can’t eat it.” — Dr. Karen Becker, Integrative Veterinarian

Effective Step-by-Step Plan to Stop Coprophagia

Stopping poop eating requires a multi-pronged approach. Follow this timeline for best results:

1. Week 1: Assess and Isolate Causes
   • Keep a log of when and what type of feces your dog eats.
   • Rule out medical issues with a vet visit, including parasite screening and blood work.
   • Switch to a highly digestible, premium dog food if currently feeding low-quality kibble.
2. Week 2–3: Implement Deterrents and Supervision
   • Add a clinically tested stool deterrent supplement to meals daily.
   • Begin taste aversion training using a consistent cue word and reward system.
   • Leash-walk in areas with feces and supervise closely in the yard.
3. Week 4–6: Reinforce and Reduce Reliance
   • Gradually phase out treats in training, using praise and play as rewards.
   • Introduce off-leash freedom only in fully cleaned areas.
   • Continue supplement use unless advised otherwise by your vet.
4. Ongoing: Maintain Prevention Habits
   • Pick up waste immediately after defecation.
   • Block access to cat litter boxes and compost bins.
   • Provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training games.

Do’s and Don’ts: What Actually Works vs. Myths

Do	Don't
Use vet-approved stool deterrents like For-Bid or Potty Mouth	Rely on home remedies like pineapple or hot sauce (no scientific backing)
Supervise your dog during potty breaks	Allow unsupervised access to yards with feces
Train the “leave it” command consistently	Yell or punish after the fact—this increases anxiety
Feed a balanced, digestible diet	Assume it’s “just a phase” without addressing underlying causes
Consult a vet behaviorist for persistent cases	Ignore signs of nutritional deficiency or illness

Real-World Example: Max the Labrador

Max, a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever, began eating his own feces shortly after moving to a small backyard with limited stimulation. His owner, Sarah, tried adding pineapple to his food and scolding him, but the behavior worsened. After consulting her veterinarian, she discovered Max was mildly deficient in vitamin B12 and had undigested fats in his stool due to poor fat absorption.

The vet recommended switching to a novel protein, highly digestible diet and adding a proven stool deterrent. Sarah also began leash-walking Max in a clean park twice daily and trained the “leave it” command using clicker training.

Within three weeks, Max stopped eating poop entirely. By week six, he passed a blind test where feces were placed in his path—he looked at them, then turned to his owner for a treat. Follow-up blood work confirmed improved nutrient absorption.

Tip: Always consult your vet before starting supplements. Some deterrents may interact with medications or aren’t suitable for dogs with liver or kidney conditions.

Expert-Recommended Checklist to Stop Poop Eating

Follow this checklist to systematically address coprophagia:

• ✅ Schedule a veterinary exam to rule out parasites, malabsorption, or endocrine disorders
• ✅ Switch to a premium, highly digestible dog food with animal-based proteins
• ✅ Begin a vet-recommended stool deterrent supplement (e.g., For-Bid, CoproBan)
• ✅ Train the “leave it” command using positive reinforcement
• ✅ Pick up feces immediately after defecation—within 1–2 minutes
• ✅ Supervise all outdoor time until the behavior stops
• ✅ Block access to cat litter, compost, and other fecal sources
• ✅ Increase mental and physical enrichment (snuffle mats, obedience drills, walks)
• ✅ Monitor progress weekly and adjust strategy if no improvement in 14 days
• ✅ Consult a veterinary behaviorist if the habit persists beyond 6 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Is eating poop dangerous for dogs?

Yes. Consuming feces—especially from other animals—can expose dogs to parasites like roundworms, giardia, and bacteria such as salmonella. Even their own waste harbors concentrated microbes that can disrupt gut health or cause gastrointestinal upset.

Will my dog grow out of eating poop?

Some puppies do, especially if the behavior is exploratory. However, adult dogs rarely outgrow coprophagia without intervention. Left unaddressed, it can become a compulsive habit reinforced by taste and routine.

Are commercial deterrents safe?

Most vet-recommended products are safe for long-term use. They typically contain natural ingredients like yucca, enzymes, or bittering agents. Always follow dosage instructions and monitor for digestive changes. Avoid products with artificial preservatives or fillers.

Conclusion: A Solvable Problem with the Right Approach

Coprophagia is unpleasant but not hopeless. With science-backed strategies, most dogs can be retrained within weeks. The key lies in combining medical evaluation, dietary adjustment, behavioral training, and environmental control. No single method works in isolation—but together, they form a powerful defense against poop eating.

Success depends on consistency, observation, and patience. Every time you pick up waste immediately or redirect your dog with a “leave it” command, you’re reinforcing healthier habits. Over time, these small actions add up to lasting change.

💬 Have you successfully stopped your dog from eating poop? Share your story or tips in the comments—your experience could help another pet owner facing the same challenge.