The reason your dog is eating poop will depend on what the underlying reason is for his actions:
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (Maldigestion Syndrome)
Digestive enzymes are needed to help break down the food’s starches, fats, and proteins in the gastrointestinal tract. The digestive enzymes trypsin, lipase, amylase, and chymotrypsin are produced by the pancreas. The breakdown of the ingested food is essential so that nutrients can be absorbed by the intestinal cells and passed on to the bloodstream. If the pancreas does not produce these enzymes, foods is not broken down nor are the nutrients absorbed. The undigested food is just passed out in the feces. Dogs will eat poop because they are starving.
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites rob a dog of his nutrients. The most common worm parasites are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. Protozoan parasites can be giardia and coccidia. These intestinal invaders can render the dog hungry even though he is being fed.
Underfed
Not feeding a dog the needed amount will leave him hungry and in search of other food sources. Puppies and young dogs are very active and need a higher caloric intake than an older dog. Additionally, puppies should be fed more frequently than adult dogs.
Poor Diet
There are a lot of commercial dog foods that do not provide the nutrients needed for dogs. It is highly recommended to read the pet food label of every purchase. It is a good idea to avoid foods that are loaded with preservatives, grains and dyes but are low in proteins. Poor diet can also lead to malnutrition. A nutritionally deprived dog will be hungry and eat poop.
Taste
Many canines are attracted to the taste of cat poop. The cat’s feces may smell like cat food, something that dogs are always trying to get in to.
Medications
Steroid medications will make a dog very thirsty and hungry. His regular serving of food will leave him looking for more food.
Diseases
Illnesses such as diabetes, Cushing’s disease, and hyperthyroidism can cause excessive hunger. These are diseases that your veterinarian may test for. If left untreated, these diseases can be fatal.
Previous Food Deprivation or Other Issues
Dogs and puppies that have been deprived of nourishment will have the tendency to always be looking for food. In addition, dogs and puppies kept in confinement for long periods of time may develop coprophagia. Dogs that have been punished or hit for pooping in the house may eat their feces in order to hide it from their owner. Fear of being punished makes the dog try to get rid of the poop. Dogs that have been abused may also have additional behavior problems; patience and love are essential in order for them to trust again.
Seeking Attention or Boredom
A dog that feels he is being ignored or is bored may do the exact thing that brings you running to him. Dogs learn very fast, and can figure out that eating poop makes you run to him.