Why does my dog eat poo?

Hello!

My older dog, Jerry, is a springer spaniel and in the last few months he has started eating other dog’s poo. We never had any issues with this with him before until we got our younger dog, Sylvie, who is a cavalier king charles. She always tended to eat poo right from when we got her, which was probably a learned behaviour as a puppy. She doesn’t seem to do it so much now, but Jerry is obsessively eating poo to the point where we now muzzle him to take him to the dog park. Anyone have any advice?

Post your reply

Want more real mum questions sent to you?

First name

Last name

Email Address You’ll need to check this email to complete your signup.

Password

Confirm Password

Why not join all our other communities for more chances to trial products, win prizes, be rewarded and have fun!

4 replies
Post a reply

- - Myfurrloves, NSW
  - 01 Dec 2025
Interesting! The only information I’ve ever read about dogs eating poop was about them possibly having a nutritional deficiency and so they eat poop to try and fill the gap… I don’t know how much of this is true and it sound more like a learned behaviour for your pup but couldn’t hurt to message a dog trainer and see what they thing on it

👍 0 Likes
- - ChiWren, QLD
  - 25 Nov 2025
It might be useful to have an appointment with a dog behavioural coach. My sister has recently had one for her dog for anxious behaviour and they were so quick to catch on to his tendencies. Hopefully you can find a solution soon, this doesn’t sound pleasant for anyone

👍 0 Likes
- - BH516518, VIC
  - 24 Nov 2025
I wish i could help but your best bet would probably be speaking to your VET and seeing if there are any checks or scans they can do to cross out any other underlining conditions or issues like a deficiency of some kind. Good luck!

👍 0 Likes
- - TraceyGail, NSW
  - 21 Nov 2025
I’ve heard of a few dogs doing this. I think it is some sort of deficiency or medical condition making them hungry. I’d definitely be asking the vet on this one. This is exactly why I will never let a dog lick me! You never know what they have eaten etc.

👍 1 Likes