There’s lots to love about dogs, from their goofy little faces to their ability to love unconditionally.
Steadfast companions, helpers, and emotional supporters, in many ways we simply don’t deserve dogs.
They are, however not perfect, and one of their widespread habits has shocked and horrified owners and bystanders alike the world over.
That’s right – it’s eating poop.
While not every dog does it, having a dog who happily snaffles up poop from one species or another is far from uncommon.
Caroline Reay, Blue Cross’s Chief Veterinary Surgeon, tells Metro.co.uk: ‘Watching our dogs eat poo is quite a distressing sight, and I completely understand why pet owners get so upset about it.’
As for what would possibly possess them to do that, there are actually a number of possible reasons.
Caroline says: ‘A simple explanation as to why dogs eat poo can be put down to the fact that they are very inquisitive and competitive in nature.
‘When dogs watch their owners pick up their poo, they naturally become interested in it, and in some cases see this action as a game between dog and owner of who can reach it first.
‘It’s also worth noting that young animals do naturally put new things in their mouth and therefore we do tend to see some young dogs using their mouths to investigate their own poo.’
‘Additionally,’ she adds, ‘there has been some research to suggest that the type of food we feed our dogs can increase the chances of this habit developing.
‘For example, if you feed your dog a high-quality food that is packed with fibre, it can speed up the transit time that results in a poo that is similar to the food that was consumed in the first place.
‘It has been suggested that by switching your dog to a low residue diet or including things like pineapple or courgette in your dogs’ diet (which have been shown to act as deterrents) they are less likely to eat their poo.’
She also says that female dogs can get into that habit after they’ve just given birth to keep the area clean for the pups.
She explains: ‘This is because several of the intestinal parasites that are found in poo become damaging to young puppies after a couple of days, and therefore it’s sensible for the mum to eat and get rid of any poo before it presents a health risk to her litter.’
Aside from switching up your dog’s diet, to stop them eating poop (either theirs or others) you can simply do all in your power to keep them away from it and react calmly whenever they do get their paws on some.
Caroline says: ‘To prevent your dog from doing this, it’s very important that owners clean up their dogs’ poo reasonably quickly to avoid this happening.
‘Our reactions to our dogs eating poo can also play a part in the development of this habit at a psychological level for the dog, as they’re more likely to revisit this habit if it harnesses a big reaction from their owner.
‘To minimise the chances of this happening, I would suggest using distracting techniques such as sit and stay commands which can be rewarded with treats after the poo has been cleared.’
For more information and expert pet advice, you can check out ‘The Petcast’ podcast by UK pet charity Blue Cross and Emma Barton.
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