Coprophagia in Dogs

Medical and physical reasons for coprophagia in dogs:

• Intestinal parasites - The parasites are feeding on the dog’s nutrients

• Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) - Is a disorder where the pancreas is not producing digestive enzymes; the food being ingested is not broken down nor are the nutrients being absorbed (the dog is starving)

• Underfed - Not feeding the dog the right amount of food

• Poor quality diet - Malnourished

• Taste - Cat feces may taste good to a dog

• Dam will eat their puppies poop to clean the den; this is a normal behavior in dogs
• Prescription medications can make a dog very hungry

Behavioral reasons for coprophagia in dogs:

• Abused dog that was not being fed (got used to eating his own feces
• Puppy mill puppies that were neglected and overcrowded causing anxiety issues
• Seeking owner’s attention
• Boredom (no activities or playtime)
• Kenneled/isolated for extended amount of time

The veterinarian will go over the patient’s medical history with you.  Let him know your concerns regarding your dog eating feces.  The veterinarian may want to discuss what your dog’s current diet is and how often is he fed. He may also want to know the dog’s daily activities and his regular schedule (playtime, walks, whether he is crated, socialized.).

The doctor will then perform a physical examination, which may include taking the patient’s weight, temperature, pulse and blood pressure.  The veterinarian may want to run blood work such as a complete blood count (CBC) and a serum chemistry panel.  The complete blood count can help evaluate platelets, red and white cell count.  The CBC can also help determine if the dog is anemic or has a bacterial infection.  A serum chemistry panel aids in determining organ function; how well the body’s organs are working.  The veterinarian may also recommend a urinalysis, fecal fat test (measures fat in the stool sample), and a fecal exam (checks for parasites). These diagnostic tests can help narrow down the cause and may reveal underlying health issues.

Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency is usually treated by replacing digestive enzymes using freeze dried pancreas extracts from pig and cattle. The extracts are sprinkled on the dog’s food usually 30 minutes before feeding.  The patient will also be placed on dietary supplements and vitamins.

Parasites are treated with a de-wormer and your dog’s bedding, toys, and bowls will need to be washed in hot water.  Flooring should be cleaned and disinfected to help eliminate any remaining eggs. 

Dogs diagnosed with deficient diets will need to be fed a better quality commercial food. It is recommended that you read the ingredient label; the first ingredient should be a protein not a “by-product”. Dietary supplements and vitamins may also be prescribed.  Patients that are anemic may need B-12 injections.

Dogs with no medical conditions may be eating feces due to behavioral reasons.  The veterinarian may suggest more playtime and walks, and less alone time.  Dogs that are exercised and played with tend to be more content. If your dog persists in eating feces the veterinarian may recommend a dog behaviorist.