The real reason your dog eats poo… and what they might be trying to tell you

It’s the moment every dog owner dreads. You turn your back for a second on a walk, only to find your beloved pet happily chomping on something they most definitely shouldn’t be.

Yes, we’re talking about poo eating, one of the most stomach-churning habits in the canine world.

Known scientifically as coprophagia, the behaviour is more common than you might think, and according to experts, it’s rarely just a case of dogs being “disgusting”.“Dogs don’t see poo in the same way we do,” explains Jason Layton, natural health expert from Nature's Pet.

“For many, it can be instinctive, especially for rescue dogs or those who have spent time scavenging to survive. But it can also be a sign that something isn’t quite right internally.”

In the wild, dogs and their ancestors would often consume faeces to avoid attracting predators or to extract any remaining nutrients from undigested food.

Fast forward to modern domestic life, and while the behaviour is less necessary, the instinct can still linger, particularly in dogs with a history of neglect or poor nutrition.

But it’s not just instinct at play. Experts say one of the most common causes is an imbalance in the gut.“A dog’s digestive system plays a huge role in their overall behaviour,” adds Jason.

“If their gut bacteria is out of balance, they may seek out alternative sources to try and correct that, including faeces. It’s the body’s way of trying to restore equilibrium.”

Stress, boredom and even simple opportunism can also be contributing factors. Some dogs learn that poo equals attention, even if it’s their owner shouting in horror from across the park.

The good news is that while the habit is unpleasant, it can usually be managed, and often resolved, with the right approach.

Five ways to stop your dog eating poo

1. Support their gut health

A healthy digestive system is key. Supplements like Nature’s Pet GI Care can help restore balance by introducing beneficial bacteria. The formula contains probiotics, prebiotics, fibre and Vitamin B12, including Enterococcus faecium, which supports healthy intestinal microflora and overall wellbeing.

2. Upgrade their diet

Low-quality food can pass through a dog without being fully digested, making their waste more “appealing” the second time around. Switching to a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet can reduce the temptation.

3. Be quick on the clean-up

It may sound obvious, but removing access is one of the simplest fixes. Clearing up in the garden immediately and keeping a close eye on walks can prevent the behaviour becoming a habit.

4. Add enrichment and stimulation

Bored dogs are far more likely to develop unwanted behaviours. Regular exercise, training sessions and puzzle toys can keep their minds occupied and reduce the urge to scavenge.

5. Train a solid ‘leave it’ command

Consistent training is crucial. Teaching your dog to respond reliably to “leave it” can stop them in their tracks before they get the chance to indulge.Jason added: "While it might never be a dinner party topic, understanding why dogs eat poo is the first step to tackling it. And as unpleasant as it is, it’s usually a sign of something fixable."

Find out more at www.natureszestnutrition.com