Why Do Golden Retrievers Eat Poop? (15 Must-Know Reasons!)

Have you ever caught your golden retriever engaging in a rather unpleasant dining habit—eating poop?

Golden retrievers may eat poop due to maternal instincts, environmental cleanliness, curiosity, taste preference, attention-seeking, health issues, anxiety, fear of punishment, and past traumatic experiences. You must understand the underlying causes to address and prevent this behavior effectively.

In this article, we will unravel why your golden retriever might be eating poop and provide practical tips to help curb this somewhat gross behavior.

Table of Contents

Why Do Golden Retrievers Eat Poop All Of A Sudden?

If your golden retriever starts eating poop suddenly, it’s important to pay attention, as this change in behavior can signal various issues. Several factors might be at play:

Nutritional Deficiencies: Golden retrievers may resort to eating poop if their diet lacks certain nutrients. It’s their instinctive way of trying to supplement their nutritional needs.

Health Issues: Sudden coprophagia (the scientific name for a dog’s habit of eating poop) could indicate health problems like digestive issues or parasites. These conditions might lead them to seek out feces for comfort or additional nutrients.

Behavioral Changes: Stress, anxiety, or a significant change in their environment can trigger unusual behaviors, including eating poop. This might be their way of coping with the changes.

Imitation: If there are multiple dogs in the household and one engages in this behavior, your golden might imitate it, especially if they are younger or more impressionable.

Boredom or Curiosity: Sometimes, the behavior stems simply from boredom or curiosity, particularly in younger dogs exploring their environment.

Why Do Golden Retrievers Roll In Poop?

Golden retrievers, like many dog breeds, may exhibit the behavior of rolling in poop for several reasons:

1. Attracted to the Smell

Surprisingly, some dogs are attracted to the strong scent of feces, similar to how humans use perfume.

Dogs have a different perception of what smells good and might find the scent of stool appealing.

2. Masking Their Scent

In the wild, dogs rolled in various scents, including stool, to mask their own scent.

This behavior could give them a tactical advantage by concealing their identity while hunting.

3. Communication

Rolling in poop can be a way for dogs to bring back scents to their pack. It’s like a form of communication, allowing other dogs to track the trail back to their source.

By rolling in feces and carrying the scent back to their home or pack, the dog essentially ‘tells’ the story of where they have been.

Normal Reasons Why Golden Retrievers Eat Poop

A study showed that 16% of the dogs observed often ate feces from other dogs (eating stools at least six times). The behavior was seen in 23% of dogs at least once.

In another study, the coprophagic behavior reported by 261 out of the 564 owners was observed in a total of 391 dogs.

While the idea of eating poop might seem abnormal to us, for golden retrievers, and dogs in general, there are several normal reasons why they might engage in this behavior.

1. They Are Nursing

A very natural reason why golden retrievers, particularly mothers, might eat poop is linked to their nursing behavior.

When nursing, mother dogs instinctively clean up after their puppies to keep the den clean and protect the litter from predators.

This behavior includes eating the puppies’ feces.

It’s a natural and instinctual act that maintains a sanitary environment for the young ones.

While this might seem off-putting to us, it’s a normal part of maternal care in the canine world.

This behavior typically diminishes as the puppies grow older and become more independent in their toileting habits.

2. Cleaning the “Den”

Golden Retrievers, like many dog breeds, have an inherent instinct to keep their living space clean.

This instinct can sometimes drive them to eat poop as a way of cleaning their immediate environment, which they perceive as their “den.”

In the wild, keeping the den clean is crucial for avoiding the detection by predators and preventing the spread of disease.

Although domesticated, dogs still retain some of these natural instincts.

For a golden retriever living in a human household, the concept of the den translates to their bed area, crate, or even the entire house.

It’s also a reminder for pet parents to be attentive to their dog’s environment and cleanliness, ensuring they feel comfortable and safe in their home space.

3. It’s Instinctual

For golden retrievers, as with many dog breeds, certain instinctual behaviors are hardwired into their DNA and passed down from their ancestors who lived in the wild.

In the wild, consuming poop could have multiple survival benefits:

Nutrient Recycling: Wild dogs might have eaten feces to recycle nutrients that weren’t fully digested the first time. This behavior could be especially prevalent during times of food scarcity.

Protecting the Pack: Wild dogs could help eliminate traces of their presence in an area by consuming stool, protecting the pack from predators.

Health Reasons: Sometimes, dogs eat certain types of feces (like herbivore droppings) to obtain key nutrients or aid digestion.

In domesticated dogs like golden retrievers, these instincts can still manifest, even though the original survival needs aren’t present in a modern living environment.

While this instinctual behavior might not be necessary for their survival today, it can still be a compelling behavior for them.

4. Puppies Exploring the World

Why do golden retriever puppies eat their poop?

Puppies are naturally curious and use their mouths to explore and understand their surroundings.

This exploratory behavior is crucial for their development, helping them learn about different textures, tastes, and smells in their environment.

During their exploration, puppies may come across feces and, out of curiosity, taste it.

This behavior is a normal part of their developmental process.

They are learning to differentiate what is food and what is not, and in doing so, they might occasionally eat poop.

5. They Learnt the Behavior From Their Mother

Another reason your golden retriever puppy may eat poop is because they learned the behavior from their mother.

This instinctual behavior can be passed down to the puppies, who observe and learn from their mother.

Puppies often adopt a “puppy see – puppy do” attitude, mimicking their mother’s actions.

This includes eating poop if they see their mother doing so.

Research suggests that dogs are more likely to develop the habit of eating feces if they live with another dog that already has this habit.

However, most puppies outgrow this behavior as they adapt to their environment or are trained to avoid it.

6. It Just Tastes Good

As unappetizing as it may sound to us, some golden retrievers might eat poop simply because they like the taste.

Dogs have different taste preferences and sensory experiences than humans, and what might seem repulsive to us can be appealing to them.

The dietary habits of other animals can influence the taste of their feces, making it more or less appealing to dogs like golden retrievers.

For instance, the stool of herbivores or animals on high-protein diets can be especially tempting.

Abnormal Reasons Why Golden Retrievers Eat Poop

While some reasons for a golden retriever eating poop are normal, there are instances where this behavior points to abnormal or concerning issues, which you must be aware of.

1. They Want to Get Your Attention

Dogs are highly social animals and crave interaction with their human companions.

If they feel neglected or crave more attention, they may resort to unusual or undesirable behaviors to elicit a response.

Eating poop can be a way for your golden retriever to provoke a reaction from you, especially if they’ve noticed that this behavior gets your attention in the past, even if it’s negative attention.

2. They’re Not Feeling Well

When golden retrievers, or dogs in general, are not feeling well, they might display abnormal behaviors, including eating feces.

This can be a sign of various health problems, such as:

Digestive Issues: Problems with digestion may lead them to eat poop. They might be trying to alleviate discomfort or address a lack of certain nutrients.

Parasites: Intestinal parasites can increase hunger or cause malabsorption of nutrients, leading dogs to eat poop in an attempt to satisfy their nutritional needs.

Illnesses Affecting Appetite: Certain illnesses like diabetes or thyroid disorders can alter a dog’s appetite or taste preferences, making them more inclined to eat things they normally wouldn’t, including feces.

Whenever a dog starts eating poop, and it’s out of character for them, especially if accompanied by other signs of illness (like lethargy, vomiting, or changes in appetite), it’s important to consult a vet promptly.

3. They Have Anxiety

Golden retrievers are known for their sensitive nature, and they can develop anxiety due to various reasons, such as changes in their environment, separation from their owners, or past traumatic experiences.

This anxiety can manifest in various ways, one of which could be coprophagia (poop-eating).

When anxious, dogs may engage in repetitive or compulsive behaviors as a coping mechanism.

Eating feces can be one such behavior, serving as a way for the dog to relieve stress or distract themselves from their anxious feelings.

4. They’re Scared of Being Punished for an Accident

A less commonly known but significant abnormal reason for a golden retriever eating poop is the fear of punishment for having an accident, especially in the case of puppies or dogs undergoing house training.

If a dog has been punished for defecating indoors, they may eat their feces to hide the evidence and avoid further punishment.

This behavior can stem from your golden retriever’s natural instinct to please their owner and avoid negative consequences.

5. Behavioral Issues Stemming from Past Experiences

Dogs that have endured stressful or traumatic pasts, including those rescued from shelters or abusive situations, may develop various coping mechanisms, which can include poop-eating.

These past experiences may have involved periods of neglect, food scarcity, or harsh training methods, which can leave a lasting impact on their behavior.

In the case of neglect or food scarcity, eating feces might have been a way to survive, and this habit can persist even after the dog is in a more secure environment.

6. Environmental Stress

Environmental stress is another factor that can lead to abnormal behaviors like eating poop in golden retrievers.

This type of stress is related to the dog’s immediate surroundings and can be triggered by various factors, such as a chaotic household, frequent changes in living situations, or the addition of new family members or pets.

This can be how they cope with the uncertainty or discomfort they feel in their surroundings.

Environmental stressors can disrupt a dog’s sense of security, leading them to revert to instinctual behaviors that might seem unusual in a domestic setting.

7. Inappropriate Association with Real Food

In some cases, golden retrievers might develop an inappropriate association between feces and real food.

This can happen due to various reasons, such as:

Feeding near areas where they defecate: If a dog’s feeding area is too close to where they or other animals defecate, they might start associating the smell of feces with food. This proximity can blur the lines between what’s edible and what’s not.

Accidental reinforcement: If a dog accidentally consumes feces while eating real food – for instance, if there are poop traces in the yard where they eat – they might begin to associate the two as being similar.

Use of certain medications or supplements: Some medications or supplements can alter a dog’s sense of taste or smell, leading to confusion between edible substances and waste.

8. Dietary Issues

Dietary issues can play a significant role in why a golden retriever might start eating poop.

An inadequate or unbalanced diet can lead to several problems, including this unwanted behavior.

Key dietary factors to consider include:

Nutritional Deficiencies: If a dog’s diet lacks essential nutrients, they might instinctively seek alternative food sources, including poop, to fulfill their nutritional needs.

Poor Digestion: A diet that is not well digested can leave undigested traces in the feces, which can still smell and taste like food to a dog. This can make feces more appealing to them.

Overfeeding or Low-Quality Food: Overfeeding or feeding low-quality food can lead to health issues or a lack of satisfaction after meals, prompting the dog to look for other food sources.

9. Bacterial Deficiencies in the Gut

Like humans, dogs’ digestive system relies on a balance of beneficial bacteria to properly digest and absorb nutrients from their food.

An imbalance or deficiency in these gut bacteria can lead to various digestive problems, including unusual eating behaviors like eating poop.

Key points about bacterial deficiencies in the gut include:

Importance of Gut Bacteria: A healthy gut bacteria is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. When the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted, it can affect the dog’s digestive health and lead to abnormal cravings.

Seeking Missing Nutrients: Dogs with bacterial imbalances in their gut might eat poop as an instinctive attempt to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria or to obtain nutrients they’re missing.

Result of Antibiotics or Illness: Sometimes, antibiotics or certain illnesses can disrupt the gut’s bacterial balance, leading to a deficiency.

What to Do If My Dog Ate Another Dog’s Poop?

If your dog ate another dog’s poop, here’s what you can do:

Immediate Response – Gently clean your dog’s mouth with water. You can use a dog toothbrush or a clean cloth to wipe around the gums and teeth.

Observe Your Dog – Watch for any signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior. These symptoms could indicate a health issue from consuming the feces.

Contact Your Vet – Call your vet if you notice any signs of sickness or if this has happened the first time. Explain the situation and follow their advice. They may recommend bringing your dog in for a check-up.

Provide Fresh Water – Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to help flush out their system.

Diet Check – If this behavior is recurring, evaluate your dog’s diet to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients.

Behavioral Training – Implement training strategies to discourage this behavior. You might need the help of a professional dog trainer.

Supervise Outdoors – Keep a closer eye on your dog during walks and outdoor time to prevent them from repeating this behavior.

Environmental Cleanliness – Regularly clean your yard and the areas where your dog plays to minimize the chances of them finding poop.

How to Stop Golden Retriever From Eating Poop?

Stopping a golden retriever from eating poop requires a combination of dietary management, behavioral training, and environmental control.

Let’s explore practical tips to stop golden retriever from eating poop.

1. Redirect Your Dog’s Attention

When you notice your golden retriever approaching feces or showing interest in it, intervene with a distraction.

This can be a toy, a treat, or a command that captures their attention and leads them away from the feces.

The goal is to interrupt the behavior before it happens and offer them an alternative, more positive action.

Consistently redirecting your dog’s attention will gradually teach them to focus on you and the rewards they receive for ignoring feces, reducing the likelihood of this behavior.

2. Use Dog Training Tools

Utilize dog training tools such as a firm leash or clickers to stop your golden retriever from eating poop.

Leash: A short leash gives you better control during walks, allowing you to quickly and gently steer your dog away from feces before they can reach it.

Clickers: A clicker can be used for positive reinforcement. Click and treat when your dog obeys a command or ignores feces, reinforcing good behavior.

Using these tools with consistent training encourages your dog to focus on your commands and discourages unwanted behaviors like eating poop.

Remember, the key is to use these tools responsibly and gently, ensuring they are aids for positive reinforcement rather than punishment.

3. Feeding High-Quality, Well-Balanced Diet

Feeding your golden retriever a high-quality, well-balanced diet is crucial in preventing them from eating poop.

A nutritious diet meets all their dietary needs, reducing their instinct to seek out additional nutrients from poop.

Ensure their food includes the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

A well-fed dog is less likely to develop undesirable eating habits like coprophagia.

If you’re unsure about the quality of your dog’s diet, consult a vet for recommendations tailored to your dog’s specific health needs and lifestyle.

4. Training for Automatic ‘Leave It’ Cue

Training your golden retriever to respond automatically to the “leave it” cue is an effective strategy to prevent them from eating poop.

This training involves teaching your dog to immediately turn away from feces (or any unwanted object) upon hearing the command.

Start by practicing with less tempting items, rewarding your dog when they obey the cue.

Gradually progress to more challenging scenarios.

Consistent practice, patience, and positive reinforcement are key.

5. Environmental Management and Cleanliness

This involves regularly cleaning your yard and any areas where your dog spends time to remove feces.

Additionally, during walks, keep your dog on a leash to control their access to areas where they might encounter feces.

A clean environment minimizes the chances of your golden retriever coming into contact with poop, thus reducing the opportunity for this behavior.

6. Increasing Mental Enrichment and Physical Exercise

Engaging your dog in activities that stimulate their mind and body can reduce boredom and stress, which are common triggers for undesirable behaviors like eating poop.

Provide interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular playtime.

Ensuring your golden retriever gets enough exercise through walks, runs, and games can also help expend their energy positively.

7. Feeding Frequency and Meal Sizing

Adjusting the feeding frequency and meal sizing for your golden retriever can play a role in preventing them from eating poop.

Sometimes, dogs eat feces due to hunger or an irregular feeding schedule.

Smaller, more frequent meals can help keep your dog’s hunger at bay and maintain a stable energy level throughout the day.

This regular feeding schedule ensures they are adequately nourished and less likely to seek out feces as a food source.

Always tailor the feeding plan to your dog’s specific dietary needs, activity level, and health status, and consult with your vet for personalized advice.

8. Natural Dietary Additives and Supplements

Many pet parents wonder what to put in dog food to stop eating poop?

Although natural dietary additives and supplements can help discourage your golden retriever from eating poop, you must consult your vet before adding anything to their diet for their safety and wellbeing.

Probiotics for Gut Health: Introducing probiotics can help balance the gut flora, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.

Herbs for Digestive Support: Herbs like fennel and ginger are known for aiding digestion and can be used in small amounts in your dog’s diet.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Overall Health: Adding omega-3 supplements like fish oil can improve your dog’s overall health, including digestive health.

Prebiotic Foods: Foods rich in prebiotics, like beet pulp or inulin, can support healthy digestion. They encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can aid in better nutrient absorption and discourage poop eating.

9. Use of Anti-Scavenging Tools

Using anti-scavenging tools is an effective method to prevent your golden retriever from eating poop. These tools include:

Muzzles: A well-fitted basket muzzle can prevent your dog from being able to eat feces while still allowing them to breathe and drink comfortably.

Scat Mats: Scat mats can be placed in areas where your dog tends to scavenge, deterring them with a mild, harmless stimulus.

Ultrasonic Devices: Some devices emit a sound that is unpleasant to dogs when they approach an off-limits area, like a spot where they frequently find poop.

When using these tools, it’s important to introduce them gradually and ensure they are used humanely and stress-free.

Training and positive reinforcement should always accompany the use of such tools to ensure the best outcome for your golden retriever’s behavior and well-being.

10. Consultation With A Vet

A vet can help determine if an underlying health issue, such as nutritional deficiencies, digestive problems, or parasitic infections, is contributing to this behavior.

They can also provide guidance on appropriate dietary changes, supplements, and even behavioral strategies.

If standard methods aren’t effective, a vet can explore more specific medical or behavioral causes and recommend specialized treatments or refer you to a veterinary behaviorist.

Regular vet check-ups ensure that your golden retriever’s overall health is monitored and maintained, essential in preventing and addressing coprophagia.

How to Stop Dog from Eating Poop: Home Remedies?

It’s always best to consult a vet before trying home remedies, especially if they involve adding something new to your dog’s diet.

Your vet can provide advice tailored to your dog’s specific health needs and circumstances.

While home remedies can be helpful to stop dogs from eating poop, they are most effective when combined with consistent training, environmental management, and proper veterinary care.

Here are some home remedies to stop your dog from eating poop:

1. Raw Pineapple

Pineapple is believed to make poop taste unpleasant to dogs.

Adding small amounts of raw pineapple to your dog’s food can make their feces less appealing.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

A small amount of apple cider vinegar in your dog’s water or food may help deter them from eating poop, as it can change the taste of your dog’s feces.

However, consult your vet first to ensure it’s safe for your dog.

3. Meat Tenderizer

Some people use a small amount of meat tenderizer in their dog’s food.

It contains an enzyme, papain, that can change the taste of the feces.

However, not all dogs react the same way to this, and it’s important to check with your vet first.

4. Taste-Aversion Products

Taste-aversion products usually contain specific ingredients that are safe for dogs but alter the taste or smell of the feces after digestion.

Recommended Reading: What Human Foods Can Golden Retrievers Eat?

Common ingredients in these products include chamomile and curly parsley.

When a dog consumes these additives with their food, it changes the taste of their feces, making it less appealing for them to eat.

5. Natural Remedies

Natural snacks like bananas and other safe fruits can serve as a healthy distraction and fulfill any dietary curiosities your dog may have.

Recommended Reading: What Fruits Can Golden Retrievers Not Eat?

6. Keep the Yard Clean

Regularly clean up after your dog to remove the temptation.

7. Increased Supervision

Watch your dog closely during bathroom breaks and distract them immediately after they’ve done their business.

8. Improve Diet and Digestion

Ensure your dog is eating a balanced diet. Sometimes, deficiencies or poor digestion can lead to this behavior.

9. Increase Dietary Fiber

Adding fiber-rich foods like carrots, spinach, and green peas to your dog’s diet can help form regular, solid feces that are less appealing to consume.

How to Stop Dog Eating Other Dog’s Poop on Walks?

To stop your dog from eating other dogs’ poop on walks, you can follow these steps:

Close Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog during walks. Use a shorter leash to maintain better control, especially in areas where there might be feces.
Command Training: Train your dog to respond to commands like “Leave it” or “No”. Consistent training will help them understand that eating poop is not acceptable.
Distraction Techniques: Carry toys or treats to distract your dog if they show interest in feces. Redirect their attention to these positive alternatives.
Regular Exercise and Play: Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical and mental exercise. A well-exercised dog is less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog when they ignore feces or follow commands during walks. Treats, praise, or a favorite toy can be effective rewards.
Avoid Punishment: Don’t punish your dog for showing interest in poop. This could lead to fear or anxiety, which might worsen the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it common for golden retrievers to eat poop?

It is common for golden retrievers to eat poop. This behavior is not unusual among dogs, and golden retrievers, in particular, are more likely to engage in this behavior than other breeds. Various factors contribute to this, including nutritional deficiencies, parasites or illnesses that increase appetite, attention-seeking behaviors, and close associations between food and feces.

2. What vitamins should I give my dog to stop eating poop?

Vitamin B supplements can be effective in stopping dogs, including golden retrievers, from eating poop. B vitamins are often added to a dog’s diet to address nutritional deficiencies that may lead to coprophagia. Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, in particular, has been linked to this behavior. You must consult a vet before starting any new supplement regimen for your dog.

3. What happens if my dog eats human poop?

If your dog eats human poop, they are at risk of contracting diseases such as parvovirus, hepatitis, giardia, and salmonella, which can be serious and sometimes fatal. Human feces can contain harmful bacteria, parasites, viruses, and residual traces of drugs or foods harmful to dogs. You must seek veterinary care immediately if your dog has ingested human poop.

4. What bacteria do dogs get from eating poop?

Dogs can contract bacteria like Giardia, Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter from eating poop, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramps.

5. How do I clean my dog’s mouth after eating poop?

To clean your dog’s mouth after eating poop, use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste, offer dental chews, wipe with a cloth moistened with coconut oil or salt water, rinse with water, and apply a dog-safe oral antiseptic. Remember never to use human toothpaste.

6. Is dog poop a toxin?

Dog poop is toxic, containing harmful bacteria and viruses like parvovirus. It poses health risks to humans and animals and is an environmental hazard, contaminating groundwater and contributing to harmful algae growth. Proper disposal is crucial for health and environmental safety.

Conclusion

Golden retrievers may eat poop for various reasons, including nutritional deficiencies, instinctual behavior, or health issues. Identifying and addressing these underlying causes is key to preventing this habit.

A balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and consistent training can help keep your golden retriever healthy and their diet poop-free.

If you’re also concerned about your golden retriever’s grass-eating behavior, you should check out this article next:

Why Does My Golden Retriever Eat Grass?