You're out on a walk, enjoying the fresh air, and suddenly—your dog darts for something on the ground and starts munching... it’s poop. Disgusted? Embarrassed? Concerned? You’re not alone. If you’ve found yourself desperately Googling “How to stop my dog from eating poop?” or shouting “My dog is a poopeater—help!” then this post is for you.
Why Do Dogs Eat Poop?
The official term for this behavior is coprophagia, and it’s surprisingly common. While we might find it revolting, dogs see the world differently. Here are a few reasons they do it:
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Nutritional Deficiency: Some dogs lack essential nutrients or digestive enzymes.
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Boredom or Anxiety: Dogs left alone too often may eat poop out of stress or frustration.
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Learned Behavior: Puppies may mimic their mother, who often cleans the den.
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Attention-Seeking: If you react strongly, some dogs will repeat it just to get a rise out of you.
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Taste: Yes, some dogs just weirdly like the taste (gross but true).
Now that we know why, let’s explore how to stop it.
1. Training and Prevention Are Key
Consistency is the foundation of training. Teaching your dog a solid “Leave it” or “Come” command can make a huge difference. Start in a distraction-free environment and reward them generously for obeying. Once your dog masters the basics, begin applying them in the real world—especially in places where poop might be present.
Tips to Train the “Leave It” Command:
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Hold a treat in your hand, close your fist.
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When your dog sniffs or paws at it, say “Leave it” firmly.
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As soon as they look away or stop trying, praise and reward them with a different treat from the other hand.
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Repeat daily. Gradually apply this to items on the ground—including poop.
2. Use Deterrents That Actually Work
Many dog owners have found success using deterrent supplements. These are usually added to food and make the dog's stool less appealing to them. Ingredients like pineapple or parsley are often used at home, though results can vary.
But let’s talk about something that often works instantly…
3. The Calmshops Citronella Spray Dog Training Collar
One of the most effective tools owners have reported using is the Calmshops Citronella Spray Dog Training Collar. It’s gentle, humane, and often stops the behaviour immediately.
Unlike shock collars (which can be harsh and controversial), this collar releases a light citronella spray when the dog engages in unwanted behavior—like darting toward poop. The scent is safe but unpleasant for dogs, and most learn quickly to associate the act with the spray.
Real Owner Experience:
“My Labrador used to go hunting for poop during our walks, and it drove me crazy. I tried everything—diet changes, vet advice, treats... nothing worked. A friend recommended the Calmshops citronella collar, and I kid you not, she stopped on the first day. It was a game changer.”
— Tina S., Oxfordshire
It’s especially helpful for outdoor walks where keeping your dog away from poop is unpredictable. With a remote function, you’re in control—and your dog gets the message without pain.
4. Diet and Health Check
If your dog is consistently eating poop, a vet visit is a smart first move. Issues like parasites, pancreatic insufficiency, or even diabetes can trigger this behaviour. Your vet might recommend:
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A more balanced diet
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Digestive enzyme supplements
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Probiotics to improve gut health
Also, make sure your dog is eating enough. Some dogs scavenge simply because they’re hungry.
5. Clean Up and Limit Access
It seems obvious, but immediate poop removal makes a difference—both at home and on walks. If you have more than one dog, keep an eye out, as some will eat another dog’s stool but not their own.
Using a muzzle on walks can also prevent the behaviour temporarily while you work on training. Look for open-mesh styles that allow your dog to pant, drink, and take treats—just not eat poop.
6. Mental Stimulation and Exercise
A bored dog is a mischief-maker. If poop-eating is part of your dog’s “fun,” increase physical activity and mental enrichment:
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Puzzle feeders
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Scent games
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Long sniffy walks
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Obedience training sessions
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Doggy play dates
- Automatic Ball launcher
The more your dog is engaged, the less likely they’ll develop gross habits out of boredom.
7. A Story Worth Sharing: From Frustrated to Free
One of our readers, Mark from Derbyshire, had a rescue Beagle named Daisy who wouldn’t stop eating poop at the park. After multiple vet visits and changing her food, he was close to giving up. Then he tried the citronella spray collar. Daisy disliked the smell enough to stop approaching any piles on the ground.
Mark paired the collar with daily “leave it” practice and lots of rewards. In less than two weeks, Daisy was poop-free and more focused on their time together.
8. What NOT to Do
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Don’t punish your dog after the act. Dogs don’t associate your yelling with their action unless caught in the moment.
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Avoid harsh corrections like shock collars or hitting—they damage trust and can cause other behavioral issues.
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Don’t rely on one fix. Combine tools like training, diet, and collars for the best results.
Last Words: Yes, You Can Stop a Poop-Eating Dog
It may be gross, it may be frustrating—but it’s fixable. Whether your dog eats poop out of habit, hunger, or curiosity, you have options. Try training consistently, clean up promptly, consider diet and health, and use smart tools like the Calmshops Citronella Spray Dog Training Collar. Read more about dog training here.
You don’t have to live with this messy mystery. Many dog owners have turned things around with a little patience and the right support.
So if you're stuck thinking, "My dog is a poopeater—help!"—know that help is here.
