My puppy eats poop. Is it a nutrient deficiency or behavior issue?

Question

We adopted a 10 month old puppy in September who grew up a stray. Recently she has added eating old, dried poop to her behavior issues. I read somewhere that dogs seeking additional nutrients will sometimes eat fresh faeces, but that they usually grow out of it by 9 months of age. Is this behavioral or is she deficient of nutrients? Should I change her food, or put her on vitamins, or train this out of her like we did with chewing and urination? Thank you for your time. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 45 lbs

C. Rathjens, DVM · Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, this is common, although inappropriate and gross behavior in dogs even as adults. If she's on a home cooked diet or a food from a tiny boutique brand, I would be worried she's not getting a balanced diet, however if she's on a reputable dog food (your vet can verify that the one you're using is good or questionable), then it's almost certainly behavioral.

My puppy eats poop. Is it a nutrient deficiency or behavior issue?

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