Techniques to Stop Dogs from Eating Their Stools
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There are quite a few complaints from pet owners about their dogs eating feces. This behavior is also called coprophagia and this means eating of feces by an animal. This problem could be a result of many factors like pancreatic insufficiency, digestive diseases, disorders such as malabsorption of food particles, over-feeding, under-feeding, fatty foods that are rich in saturated oils, anxiety or stress. Nevertheless, there are various studies regarding the absolute cause of this canine issue.
Theories suggest that dogs eat their feces to eliminate evidences when they are punished for defecating improperly because they think that defecating is wrong. There are also some researches which suggest that coprophagy is a trait passed down to dogs through the ages. Wolves may have often eaten feces if something to eat is hard to come by. In some cases, coprophagy may be a behavior learned from watching other animals.
It can also occur when the dog is in the course of trying out the taste of everything and then likes the taste of the poop which eventually develops into a habit.But, understanding the why behind the stool eating is not near as important as preventing it.
How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop
Searching for a solution to this problem is easier said than done. There are different avenues out there that could help you put a handle on your canines. Owners can stop their dogs from eating feces by picking it up. However, it has to be done right after the dog pooped to eliminate any chances of it getting near the poop.
There are also a few chemicals and additives that claim to fix this problem. Natural products include pumpkin seeds, mints and pineapple. Some owners also use some chemicals to make the feces taste unbareable. There are available products that can be mixed with dog food, made especially for this intention.
Using a muzzle is also practical solution to slow down the canine from nibbling their own feces. As it is with most un-wanted behavior problems, eating their droppings can be prevented with some good training. By teaching a different positive behavior your pet may forget about devouring the poop. Verbal commands could also be taught to the canine. Adding toys around the pet could be used as diversionary tactics. Owners should also look for something that is more enjoyable for the pup than nibbling its own stool. What is important is that owners do not punish their dogs for eating feces.
It is common for a dog to eat its and other animal’s feces, but through proper training, this problem can be solved.
Pups may contract illness from eating feces. Worms and other parasites can also be transmitted through ingesting these. There is no doubt that this is not something you want your dog to be doing. Eliminating the pets from eating their stools needs tremendous effort. Through the owners’ initiative, canines could not only be prevented from doing something gross, but they could also be saved from sickness.
Even though the reasons why dogs eat stool are only theories, there are still means to stop them from doing such.
