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Why is my puppy eating poop? Is it normal and how do I stop it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 3 months and 17 days old | 27 lbs

Why does puppy eat poop?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on March 25th, 2018

It's very common for puppies and adult dogs to eat poop. Most of the time, they just seem to enjoy the taste - it's not normally an indication of any illness or nutritional deficiency. The best way to prevent it is by picking up the poop before they have a chance to eat it, or by blocking their access to cat litter boxes or other places where they might find some.

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3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 15th, 2017

    It's such a gross thing, but it is common. Dogs do like eating poop. You can pick up your older dog's poop right after she's goes to prevent Finn from eating it. Also make sure he is up to date on his deworming tablets as intestinal worms can cause a dog to eat poop. Nutritional deficiencies can cause it as well, so be sure to feed Finn a high quality puppy formaulted food.

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