How to Stop Dogs from Eating Poop
There are quite a few complaints from pet owners about their pups eating feces. This habit is also known as 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.
There are studies showing that dogs who are punished by their owners for defecating inappropriately eat their poops to erase the evidence thinking that the act of defecating is improper. There are also studies suggesting that coprophagy is a characteristic passed down through the ages. Wolves may have often eaten poo if food is hard to come by. In some cases, coprophagy may be a behavior learned from watching other animals.
Dogs may also develop this trait when they liked the taste of their poop while they are in the course of having to try to taste everything.But, whatever the real reason behind dogs eating their stools, what is important is to be able to prevent them from doing so.
How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Poop
Looking for an answer to this dilemma is not really easy. But there are different strategies available that could help pet owners control their dogs. Owners can stop their dogs from eating feces by picking it up. However, so as not to give the dog any chances of going near the poop, it has to be disposed immediately.
There are also several 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 poo taste horrible. Products mixed with dog food intended for this purpose are out in the market.
Using a muzzle is also practical solution to stop the pup from eating their own feces. Just like any other bad canine habits, eating feces can be prevented if the pets can be properly trained. By introducing another good behavior, a dog can forget about eating feces. Verbal commands could also be taught to the canine. Supplying playthings to your pet could be used as a diversionary tactic. Owners should also look for something that is more fun for the pet than eating its own stool. It is important that owners do not castigate their dogs for eating stools.
It is a common trait for a dog to eat its and other animal’s stool, but with proper training and supplements, this problem can be prevented.
Pups may contract illness from eating poopies. Worms and other parasites can also be transmitted through ingesting these. This situation is not just something that owners want their dogs to do. Putting a halt to the canine from eating their poo needs tremendous effort. By the owner taking action, not only could you prevent this gross action, but should help to keep your pet healthier.
The reasons why dogs eat feces are only theoretical, but there are still ways they can be stopped from doing it.
Comments
Tell me what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!
