Dear VetBabble,
Why does my eight-month-old puppy eat feces and hide them in his bed? I don’t scold him for potty accidents, and he’s fed Blue Buffalo twice a day. How can I put an end to this behavior?
Understanding Your Puppy’s Behavior
Firstly, it’s essential to know that you’re not alone in dealing with this issue. Many dogs do this for various reasons. Sometimes, it’s simply because feces are appetizing to them. Other times, it may be due to an underlying issue, such as something lacking in their diet. However, often, it’s just fun and tasty for them. A helpful resource to explore this behavior further can be found in this article titled Why Does My Dog Eat Cat Poo?.
Managing the Situation
The most effective way to handle this situation is through proper management. Be proactive in cleaning up the feces immediately when you spot them. Dispose of them in the woods or a dedicated waste bin, ensuring your puppy doesn’t have access to them. Additionally, it would be wise to look into other potential causes or contributing factors to this behavior. This VetBabble article, Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?, offers valuable information on the topic.
If you suspect that your puppy’s diet might be lacking something, try adding new items to it. For example, canned pumpkin for dogs (not the pie filling from grocery stores) can be beneficial. Raw chews such as marrow bones or beef tendons can also help fulfill nutritional needs. Continue to experiment with your puppy’s diet to identify what might be missing. If you don’t address this issue, your puppy might continue eating feces even when their diet is complete, as it will have developed into a learned behavior.
Another option is to adjust your puppy’s feeding schedule. Feed him three times a day instead of twice, still providing the same amount of food. This could help your puppy feel fuller throughout the day and lessen his interest in eating feces. To better understand your dog’s bowel movements and needs, check out this article: How Often Should My Dog Poop?
Addressing Unusual Eating Habits
Some dogs may develop a taste for non-food items such as dirt. In these cases, it’s crucial to monitor their behavior and consult with your veterinarian. Eating dirt could be due to a medical issue, nutritional deficiency, or behavioral reasons. Read more about this in the Why Does My Dog Eat Dirt? article on VetBabble.
Remember, it’s essential to be patient with your puppy as you work towards correcting this behavior. By managing the situation and addressing potential dietary or behavioral factors, you can help guide your puppy towards healthier habits. Always consult your veterinarian for advice and support tailored to your pet’s specific needs and situation.
