why do puppies eat poop? and how do I get them to stop?

Seeing your puppy eat poop can be shocking, gross, and a little stressful — but it’s a surprisingly common behavior.

It's called coprophagia, which is a type of pica (the compulsive eating of non-food items). Most puppies explore the world with their mouths, and many outgrow this habit on their own. That said, sometimes it can signal a health or behavioral issue, so it’s worth understanding why it happens and what you can do to help your pup break the habit.

If you need more guidance or have any health concerns, talk to your Banfield veterinary team. Find a Banfield near you

Common reasons your puppy might be eating poop

Puppies are curious little explorers, and sometimes that curiosity extends to poop. Understanding why your puppy does it can make it easier to manage.

• Curiosity and exploration: Puppies use their mouths to learn about the world, and poop is just another “thing” to investigate.
• Mimicking mom: Mother dogs often clean up after their puppies. Some pups may imitate this behavior, thinking it’s normal.
• Boredom or lack of stimulation: Puppies with excess energy or not enough mental enrichment may turn to eating poop as a form of entertainment.
• Attention-seeking: Some pups quickly learn that eating poop gets a strong reaction. Even if it’s negative attention, it can reinforce the behavior.
• Hunger or dietary deficiencies: Puppies who aren’t getting enough food or nutrients may try to supplement their diet in unusual ways.
• Stress or anxiety: Changes in routine, confinement, or harsh correction can sometimes trigger this behavior.

Most of the time, these causes are completely normal and manageable with supervision, training, and enrichment.

When to worry: Is this normal or a sign of a problem?

Not all poop-eating is a cause for alarm, but it helps to know the signs that signal a potential issue:

Green flag: Occasional, exploratory nibbling that stops on its own is usually normal puppy curiosity.

Yellow flag: Frequent or compulsive poop eating, especially after accidents, may indicate a behavioral or dietary issue that needs attention.

Red flag: Sudden onset of the behavior, noticeable weight loss, changes in appetite, or other health concerns should prompt a call to your vet.

Paying attention to the pattern and frequency helps you decide when to monitor and when to intervene.

Can poop eating be caused by illness or medication?

Sometimes, poop-eating can signal an underlying medical issue rather than just a quirky habit. Puppies with malabsorption problems, parasites, or diabetes may have increased appetite and may eat poop more often. Certain medications, like steroids, can also boost hunger and contribute to the behavior.

If your puppy’s poop-eating is frequent, sudden, or accompanied by other symptoms — like weight loss, diarrhea, or changes in appetite — schedule a vet checkup. We can rule out medical causes and give guidance on how to help your dog.

How to stop your puppy from eating poop

Prevention is the easiest and most effective strategy. Pick up your puppy’s poop right away and keep tempting areas, like litter boxes or other pets’ waste, out of reach.

Supervise your puppy during potty time and redirect their attention with a toy or treat before they can turn back to the poop. Praise and reward them immediately after they go in the right spot. It helps reinforce the behavior you want.

Avoid punishment, which can increase anxiety and make the behavior worse. For persistent cases, your vet may suggest deterrent supplements or dietary adjustments, but always follow professional guidance.

When to call your vet: a quick checklist

While occasional poop eating is often normal, there are times to reach out for professional guidance:

• Sudden onset of the behavior
• Frequent ingestion of large amounts of poop
• Weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestive symptoms
• No response to training or prevention strategies

If you’re worried or just want guidance, your Banfield veterinary team is always here to help.

Important Notice: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this page.

FAQs about puppies eating poop