Let’s be real: finding out your dog has a taste for poop is one of the more unpleasant parts of being a pet parent. Vets call this habit coprophagia, and while it’s more common than you’d think, that doesn’t make it any less gross. The good news is that you don’t have to live with the bad breath and the worry of parasites forever.
While many young dogs will grow out of this phase on their own, a two-pronged approach of training and the right supplements can help you and your dog finally kick the habit. As always, consult your vet before adding new supplements to your dog’s diet.
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Supplements to Support Your Training
Supplements are a great way to help curb this behavior from the inside out. They often make the stool taste unpleasant or provide digestive enzymes your dog may be lacking.
NaturVet Coprophagia Stool Eating Deterrent
- Added Breath Freshener: An extra benefit for you and your dog.
- Enzyme and Probiotic Blend: Supports healthy digestion and helps reduce the appeal of stool.
- Dental Health Blend: Features ingredients like parsley and mint to support normal periodontal health.
- Capsimax™️: Uses a unique pepper extract to give stool an unpleasant taste.
- Gut and Immune Support: Includes enzymes and probiotics to aid digestion.
Pawfectchew Coprophagia Deterrent
- Made in the USA: A quality product you can trust.
- Digestive Enzymes: Formulated to help your dog absorb nutrients more efficiently.
- Probiotics: Supports a healthy gut microbiome, which can help curb cravings.
Training Tricks: Breaking the Habit
Supplements are a huge help, but they work best when paired with some smart training. The key is to make eating poop less rewarding and more difficult.
The “Leave It” Command: This is an essential command for any dog, but it’s especially useful here. Practice it in low-distraction environments first, then move to the backyard or on a walk. This gives you a tool to use when you can’t get to the poop first.
Cleanup is Key: The easiest way to stop this is to clean up immediately. Don’t give them the opportunity. If it’s a younger puppy, supervise them constantly on walks or in the yard.
Distraction is Your Friend: When you see them sniffing around a potential “snack,” distract them with a high-value treat or a favorite toy. Call them over and reward them for coming to you. This teaches them that ignoring the poop is way more rewarding than eating it.
These behavior tips and supplements are your one-two punch against this gross habit. By combining smart training tricks with a quality supplement, you’re not just hoping the problem goes away, you’re actively giving your dog the support they need to kick the craving for good. You’ve got the tools to stop this habit and get back to enjoying your time together, poop-free.
For more trusted advice on keeping your pet healthy, check out our full Pet Health & Wellness category.
