10 Signs Your Dog Might Be Eating Poo (And What to Do About It)

It’s one of the grossest habits dogs can have—and one of the most common.

Known as coprophagia, poo-eating is surprisingly normal (if revolting). Some dogs do it openly, others get sneaky. Either way, it can lead to health issues, nasty breath, and some truly unpleasant kisses.

Here’s how to spot the signs, understand the causes, and deal with the problem.

The 10 Signs Your Dog Might Be Eating Poo

1. Foul-smelling breath

A strong, persistent odour beyond typical dog breath is one of the first clues.

2. Missing poo from the garden

If you're regularly picking up less than expected, and no one's stealing it, it could be your dog.

3. Frequent sniffing and licking around poo

Not just a quick sniff—sustained interest or attempts to revisit certain spots.

4. Dirty teeth or bits of grass stuck in the mouth

Especially in dogs with longer hair around the muzzle.

5. Sudden bouts of vomiting or tummy upset

Eating old or infected poo can easily trigger digestive issues.

6. Weight loss or poor nutrition despite regular meals

In some cases, dogs eat poo to make up for missing nutrients.

7. Re-ingesting their own poo

Usually seen in puppies, but can continue into adulthood without correction.

8. Fixation on cat litter trays or other animal waste

A strong interest in other pets’ toilet areas can be a related behaviour.

9. Obsessive behaviour when you try to stop them

Running off with it, guarding the spot, or rushing out to eat it first.

10. Mysterious 'clean' garden despite known toileting

Especially if you know your dog went—but there’s nothing there now.

Why Do Dogs Eat Poo?

There are several possible reasons:

• Nutritional deficiencies (especially in poorly balanced diets)
  
  
• Boredom or lack of stimulation
  
  
• Learned behaviour (from mum or other dogs)
  
  
• Attention-seeking
  
  
• Anxiety or stress
  
  
• Scent masking (particularly in rescues or nervous dogs)
  
  
• Enzyme deficiency or gut health issues
  
  

In puppies, it’s often a phase. In adults, it usually needs addressing.

How to Stop It

1. Pick up waste promptly

Don’t leave temptation lying around. A regular clean-up schedule is key.

2. Change diet or add supplements

Your vet may recommend enzyme supplements or digestive aids if a deficiency is suspected.

3. Keep dogs occupied

Mental and physical stimulation helps reduce boredom and stress. Try puzzle toys, longer walks, or new training games.

4. Use deterrent sprays

Some products make poo taste unpleasant (even by dog standards), though results vary.

5. Interrupt and redirect

Catch them in the act (if safe) and immediately call them away. Reward alternative behaviours.

6. Check for underlying health issues

If the behaviour comes on suddenly or persists despite training, it may be medical.

When to See a Vet

• If your dog eats large amounts of poo regularly
  
  
• If there’s vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained weight loss
  
  
• If they show signs of obsessive behaviour
  
  

Your vet can rule out medical causes and suggest the best behavioural route forward.

Final Thoughts

It might be disgusting, but you’re not alone.

Poo-eating is common and treatable with the right mix of management, training, and (sometimes) vet support. A cleaner garden is the first and easiest win.

Suspect your dog might be helping themselves to the leftovers?

Book a regular clean-up with Scooper Heroes and remove temptation before it strikes. Request a quote.