It’s no secret that many dogs partake in the unsavory habit of eating their own poop. While this behavior might seem stomach-churning to humans, it’s surprisingly common among dogs. In the wild, canines often consume the feces of their prey to extract leftover nutrients that escaped digestion the first time around.

This behavior, known as coprophagia, is so widespread that one in six dogs earns the title of a “serious” poop eater—meaning they’ve been caught at it at least five (!) times. For many owners, the disgust runs so deep that coprophagia is frequently cited as a reason for rehoming or even euthanizing dogs.

To prevent such drastic measures, early house training becomes crucial, teaching your puppy where and when to go potty. Fortunately, Cavoodles are eager learners and typically pick up training with ease.

Why Do Dogs Eat Their Own Poop?

Even with access to nutritious food and a secure home, some dogs still indulge in coprophagia. But why?

• Curiosity: Many dogs explore their world with their mouths, leading them to investigate—and sometimes consume—their own feces.
• Nutritional Deficiency: A dog lacking essential nutrients might view feces as a supplemental source of what they need.
• Digestive Cleansing: Some experts suggest that dogs eat feces as a way to “cleanse” or regulate their digestive system.
• Fear of Punishment: Dogs punished for accidents indoors may connect elimination with something negative, compelling them to hide the evidence by consuming it.

How to Discourage Coprophagia

If your Cavoodle has taken a liking to this habit, here are steps you can take to curb the behavior:

1. Improve Nutrition
   Ensure your dog’s diet meets all their nutritional needs. If deficiencies are suspected, consult your vet about switching to a higher-quality food or incorporating supplements.

2. Change Feeding Patterns
   Offer smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of a single large one. This helps maintain a feeling of fullness, potentially reducing the urge to consume feces.

3. Interrupt the Act
   If you catch your dog mid-act, disrupt them with a sharp noise or a firm “no.” Once they stop, reward them immediately with a treat or toy to associate halting the behavior with something rewarding.

4. Remove Temptation
   Scoop up feces as soon as possible to eliminate the opportunity for your dog to indulge.

By understanding and addressing the reasons behind this behavior, you can help your Cavoodle overcome coprophagia and restore peace in your home.