Dogs can have some strange habits, and one of the most unpleasant is poop eating, scientifically known as coprophagia. If you’ve caught your furry friend engaging in this behavior, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, there are supplements designed specifically to curb this issue. In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 best dog supplements for poop eaters and help you understand how they work.
What is Coprophagia in Dogs?
Coprophagia is the technical term for a dog’s habit of eating feces. It can happen for several reasons, ranging from dietary deficiencies to behavioral issues. Though it’s an unsavory habit, many dogs develop it at some point in their lives.
Why Do Some Dogs Eat Poop?
Dogs eat poop for various reasons, but it’s often due to boredom, stress, or even an instinctual behavior left over from their ancestors. However, in many cases, dogs may eat poop due to a lack of essential nutrients in their diet or digestive problems. This is where supplements come into play.
The Role of Dog Supplements for Poop Eaters
Supplements can be a game-changer for managing coprophagia. By providing the missing nutrients or enhancing digestive health, these supplements aim to reduce or eliminate the desire to eat poop. Let’s first understand what coprophagia is and why it happens.
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Understanding Coprophagia
What is Coprophagia?
Coprophagia is when dogs consume feces, either their own or that of other animals. While it might be repulsive to us, it’s relatively common in the animal kingdom. For dogs, it could be a way to cope with deficiencies or behavioral imbalances.
Common Causes of Poop Eating in Dogs
Some common reasons for poop eating include:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: If your dog isn’t getting the right balance of nutrients, they may try to “recycle” by eating poop.
- Digestive Problems: Dogs with digestive enzyme imbalances may seek out feces to aid in their digestion.
- Behavioral Issues: Anxiety, boredom, and stress can trigger coprophagia in some dogs.
- Instinctual Behaviors: In the wild, dogs and wolves might eat feces to keep their dens clean or to hide the scent from predators.
The Link Between Diet and Coprophagia
A poor or imbalanced diet can lead to coprophagia. If your dog’s diet lacks key nutrients like vitamins, minerals, or proteins, they might instinctively try to make up for it by eating feces. Improving the dog’s overall nutrition through high-quality food and targeted supplements can often help reduce this behavior.
How Dog Supplements Can Help with Poop Eating
Nutrient Deficiencies and Coprophagia
If your dog’s diet lacks certain nutrients, they may eat poop to fill the gap. Supplements rich in probiotics, digestive enzymes, and vitamins can help by ensuring that your dog’s body is absorbing the necessary nutrients.
How Supplements Address Digestive Issues
Digestive issues, like poor enzyme production, can also lead to coprophagia. Many dog supplements include digestive enzymes that help break down food more efficiently, reducing the need to seek out additional nutrients from feces.
Behavioral Support through Supplements
Some supplements contain ingredients like Yucca Schidigera, which reduces stool odor, making poop less appetizing to your dog. Others include calming agents to reduce anxiety, which is sometimes a trigger for poop eating.
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Key Ingredients to Look for in Dog Supplements for Poop Eaters
Probiotics
Probiotics promote healthy gut bacteria, improving digestion and reducing the likelihood of poop eating due to digestive discomfort.
Digestive Enzymes
These help break down food so your dog can better absorb nutrients, reducing the compulsion to eat feces for additional nutrition.
Yucca Schidigera Extract
This plant extract reduces stool odor, making it less appealing for dogs.
Vitamin B Complex
A deficiency in B vitamins is often linked to coprophagia, so supplements with these vitamins can help curb the behavior.
Papaya Extract
Papaya contains natural enzymes that aid digestion, helping your dog process food more effectively.
Top 10 Best Dog Supplements for Poop Eaters: Reviews
Let’s review the top supplements to help with poop eating:
1. NaturVet – Coprophagia Stool Eating Deterrent
NaturVet’s Coprophagia Stool Eating Deterrent is a highly effective product designed to stop dogs from eating poop. These 130 soft chews not only discourage stool consumption but also freshen your dog’s breath with added breath aid ingredients. The formula includes enzymes and probiotics to support healthy digestion, further reducing the chance of poop-eating behavior.
Overall, this product is easy to administer, thanks to its soft chew form, and offers a dual benefit of digestive health and breath freshening, making it a great choice for dogs with this unpleasant habit.
2. Solid Gold Stop Eating Poop Chews
Solid Gold Stop Eating Poop Soft Chews provide a natural, holistic solution for dogs with coprophagia. These grain-free, 60-count chews are formulated with peppermint and parsley oil, which help deter poop-eating while also freshening breath. The blend of natural ingredients supports digestive health, making it easier for your dog to absorb nutrients and reducing the urge to eat feces.
These chews are easy to feed and offer a gentle, effective way to address this behavior in dogs, making them a great option for pet owners seeking a natural deterrent.
3. Zesty Paws Chew No Poo Bites
Zesty Paws Chew No Poo Bites are a stool-eating deterrent that also promote gut, immune, and dental health. These 90-count chicken-flavored chews contain DE111 Bacillus subtilis, a premium probiotic that supports digestion. They are designed to discourage poop eating while improving overall well-being.
With their focus on digestive and immune support, along with breath-freshening benefits, these soft chews provide a comprehensive approach to curbing coprophagia in dogs, making them a popular choice for pet owners.
4. Vet Classics Stop Stool Eating Deterrent
Vet Classics Stop Stool Eating soft chews are designed to deter dogs from eating stool while freshening their breath. These 90-count chews contain enzymes and probiotics to support digestion, reducing the behavior associated with poor nutrient absorption.
This supplement offers a dual benefit of promoting gut health and preventing coprophagia, making it a convenient solution for dogs with this issue. Easy to administer and effective, it’s a helpful choice for dog owners dealing with stool-eating habits.
5. Nutri-Vet Nasty Habit Dog Supplement
Nutri-Vet Nasty Habit Chewable Tablets are designed to help stop puppies and dogs from eating their own stool. These 60-count tablets contain ingredients that deter stool eating by making it less appealing to dogs.
With an easy-to-administer chewable form, these tablets are a practical solution for preventing this unpleasant habit in both puppies and adult dogs. Nutri-Vet’s formula is effective and straightforward, making it a popular choice for managing coprophagia.
6. PetNC Natural Care Stool Eating Deterrent
PetNC Natural Care Stool Eating Deterrent Chewables are formulated to stop dogs from eating stool. These 60-count chewables are easy to give and contain natural ingredients to help deter this behavior.
This supplement offers a simple and effective way to curb stool-eating in dogs, making it a reliable choice for pet owners seeking a natural solution.
7. For-Bid Coprophagia Deterrent Powder
For-Bid is a vet-recommended powder additive for dogs and cats that helps prevent stool eating and coprophagia. It’s safe to mix with your pet’s food and effectively deters this behavior by making feces unappetizing.
This easy-to-use powder is a reliable and safe solution for both dogs and cats struggling with poop-eating habits, making it a trusted choice for pet owners.
8. Vetrinex Labs Probiotic Chews for Dogs
Vetrinex Labs Probiotic is a powder formula designed to stop and prevent dogs from eating poop. This probiotic supplement supports digestive health, helping to reduce coprophagia in dogs, cats, and puppies.
Easy to mix with food, it addresses stool eating by improving gut function and nutrient absorption. This product offers an effective and natural approach to preventing poop-eating behavior in pets.
9. BARK&SPARK NO Poo Treats – Prevent Dog Poop Eating
BARK&SPARK NO Poo Treats are soft chews designed to prevent dogs from eating poop. These 120 chicken liver-flavored chews contain probiotics, enzymes, and breath-freshening ingredients that support digestive health while deterring stool eating.
Made in the USA, these treats are a tasty and effective solution for managing coprophagia, promoting better digestion, and freshening your dog’s breath. Easy to give and well-loved by dogs, they’re a reliable choice for pet owners.
10. Deterrent for Dogs Eating Poop by Healthy Solutions For Pets
Healthy Solutions For Pets Coprophagia No Poo Chews help prevent dogs from eating stool. These 60-count chews are enhanced with enzymes, probiotics, and breath fresheners to support digestion and deter the behavior.
Effective and easy to administer, these chews provide a natural solution to stop poop eating while promoting digestive health and freshening breath. A practical choice for pet owners dealing with this issue..
How to Choose the Right Supplement for Your Dog
Consider Your Dog’s Specific Needs
Each dog is different, so choose a supplement based on whether your dog’s coprophagia is due to a nutrient deficiency, digestive issue, or behavioral problem.
Look for Natural Ingredients
Opt for supplements made with natural ingredients to avoid any harmful side effects.
Taste and Palatability
If your dog is a picky eater, make sure to choose a supplement that’s flavored to be more appealing.
Are Dog Supplements for Poop Eaters Safe?
Most dog supplements are safe when used as directed. However, some dogs may experience side effects such as mild gastrointestinal upset. Always consult your vet before introducing any new supplement to your dog’s diet.
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How Long Do Supplements Take to Work?
Some supplements may take a few days to start working, while others may need several weeks. Factors like the severity of the issue, the specific product, and your dog’s individual health can affect the timeline.
Additional Tips to Stop Dogs from Eating Poop
Besides supplements, you can:
- Improve your dog’s diet with high-quality, nutrient-rich food.
- Train your dog to avoid feces with positive reinforcement techniques.
- Keep your dog active with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Conclusion
Dealing with a poop-eating dog can be stressful, but the right supplements can help. Whether your dog’s behavior stems from a nutritional deficiency or a digestive issue, there are solutions that can curb this habit. Always consult with your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet or introducing new supplements.
FAQs
What causes a dog to eat poop?
Dogs may eat poop due to nutritional deficiencies, digestive issues, or behavioral factors such as boredom or anxiety.
Are poop-eating deterrent supplements effective?
Yes, when used in combination with a proper diet and behavioral training, many supplements are highly effective.
Can supplements stop poop eating in puppies?
Yes, many supplements are safe for puppies, but always check the label and consult your vet.
How do I know which supplement is best for my dog?
Consider your dog’s specific needs, such as digestive support or nutrient deficiencies, and look for supplements with natural ingredients.
Are there natural remedies for dogs that eat poop?
Yes, some natural remedies include dietary changes, increased exercise, and supplements containing probiotics and digestive enzymes.
