What To Put In Dog Food To Stop Eating Poop: Top List
Dogs eating their own or other animals’ feces, also known as coprophagia, is a common and unpleasant behavior many pet owners have to deal with. While it may seem disgusting and unsanitary, there are several reasons why dogs engage in this behavior. One possible cause is a nutritional deficiency, leading them to search for missing nutrients in their waste. This is where the concept of adding certain ingredients to their food comes in – by providing them with a well-balanced and complete diet, we can help curb their coprophagia tendencies. In this article, we will discuss what to put in dog food to stop eating poop, as well as other strategies to discourage this behavior in your furry friend.
What To Put In Dog Food To Stop Eating Poop: Top List
Below are some of the things you can add to your dog’s food to stop it from eating poop. Although, it is important to note that every dog is different, and what may work for one may not work for another. Consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet, and always monitor them closely for any signs of digestive upset.
1. Pineapple:
Adding small amounts of pineapple to your dog’s food can help make their poop taste bitter, discouraging them from eating it. This is because pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain which can change the taste and smell of the poop. However, too much pineapple can cause digestive upset in dogs, so, it should be used in moderation.
2. Grated Courgette:
Adding grated courgette (zucchini) to your dog’s food can help make their poop less appealing. This is because courgettes are high in fiber which can make the poop less attractive to dogs. Additionally, the texture of grated courgettes can also make it more difficult for dogs to eat their poop.
3. Pumpkin:
Another fiber-rich food that can make your dog’s poop less desirable is pumpkin. It also contains nutrients and enzymes that promote digestive health in dogs. When adding pumpkin to your dog’s food, make sure it is plain canned pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar:
Adding a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s food can make their poop less appetizing. The strong smell and taste may discourage them from eating their poop. However, be sure to dilute the vinegar with water before adding it to your dog’s food to avoid any potential digestive upset.
5. Probiotics:
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help improve your dog’s digestive health and reduce the appeal of their poop. They can be found in some dog foods, or you can add a probiotic supplement to your dog’s food.
6. Meat Tenderizer:
Some pet owners have found success by sprinkling a small amount of meat tenderizer on their dog’s food. The enzyme in meat tenderizer, called papain, can break down the proteins in the poop, making it less appealing to dogs.
Do Bananas Stop Dogs from Eating Poop?
Some dog owners believe that the strong scent and flavor of bananas can make poop less appealing to dogs. Aside from that, bananas are high in fiber, which can make poop less palatable to dogs. Although there is no scientific evidence yet to suggest that bananas can prevent dogs from eating poop. So, it is important to note that it is not healthy or recommended to rely solely on bananas to stop dogs from eating poop. If your dog has a habit of eating poop, it is important to consult a veterinarian for proper advice and behavior modification techniques.
How to Stop Dog from Eating Poop Pineapple
- Choose fresh pineapple: Make sure to use fresh pineapple as it contains the enzyme bromelain, which gives it its flavor. Canned or processed pineapple may not have the same effect.
- Cut pineapple into small pieces: Cut the pineapple into small pieces for easier consumption.
- Add pineapple to your dog’s meal: Mix the pineapple pieces into your dog’s regular meal. The acidic taste of pineapple will make their stool taste bitter, discouraging them from eating it.
- Feed pineapple as a snack: Alternatively, you can offer small pieces of pineapple as a treat to your dog throughout the day.
- Use pineapple juice: If your dog does not eat pineapple pieces, you can also sprinkle pineapple juice on their food.
- Monitor your dog’s behavior: Keep an eye on your dog and see if the pineapple is affecting their behavior. If they still try to eat their feces, you may need to try a different method or consult a veterinarian.
- Repeat daily: To see effective results, it is important to give your dog pineapple regularly. It may take a few days or weeks for the pineapple to fully take effect.
Kindly be aware that pineapple may not work for all dogs and may not completely stop them from eating poop. It is advisable you address the underlying cause of this behavior, such as boredom or lack of nutrients in your dog’s diet, or consult with a vet for further advice.
SEE ALSO: My Cat Keeps Meowing And Rubbing Against Everything: Why & What To Do
Why Is My Dog Eating Poop?
Coprophagia, or the act of eating feces, is a behavior that is relatively common among dogs. While it may seem gross to us, there are a variety of reasons why a dog may do this. It is essential to monitor your dog’s behavior and consult with a veterinarian if this behavior persists. Ensuring your dog has a nutritious diet, is mentally and physically stimulated, and receives proper attention and training can help prevent them from developing this habit.
- Instinctual Behavior: Eating feces, also known as coprophagia, is a natural behavior in many animals, including dogs. In the past, wild dogs would eat the feces of other animals to obtain vital nutrients that may have been missing from their diet.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Dogs may eat poop due to a lack of essential nutrients in their diet. This can often happen when they are not getting enough protein, vitamins, or minerals. As a result, they may turn to poop as a source of these missing nutrients.
- Boredom: Dogs are social animals and need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. If they are left alone for long periods with nothing to do, they may resort to eating poop as a form of entertainment.
- Stress or Anxiety: Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety. This can be due to changes in their environment, separation anxiety, or lack of mental stimulation. In some cases, eating poop can be a coping mechanism for these feelings.
- Medical Issues: In some cases, dogs may eat poop due to an underlying medical condition such as pancreatic insufficiency or disorders affecting the digestive system. It is essential to rule out any underlying medical issues through a visit to the vet.
- Attention-Seeking Behavior: Dogs are smart creatures and may engage in attention-seeking behaviors, even if it means doing something unpleasant like eating poop. If they receive a strong reaction from their owner, they may continue this behavior to get attention in the future.
- Learned Behavior: Some dogs may have learned to eat poop from their mother or littermates. In multi-dog households, one dog may see another dog eating poop and mimic the behavior.
How to Stop Dog from Eating Poop Home Remedies
There are several home remedies that you can try to stop your dog from eating poop. These remedies are safe and natural alternatives to commercial products that may have side effects.
1. Add pineapple to your dog’s diet:
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain that can make your dog’s poop taste bitter. Adding a small amount of canned pineapple (about a teaspoon) to your dog’s food can discourage them from eating their feces or the feces of other animals.
2. Use meat tenderizer:
Meat tenderizer contains papain, an enzyme that can also make your dog’s poop taste unappealing. Sprinkle a small amount of meat tenderizer on your dog’s food to see if this helps discourage them from eating poop.
3. Add supplements to your dog’s diet:
Dogs who eat poop may be lacking certain nutrients in their diet. Adding supplements such as probiotics, digestive enzymes, or a multivitamin can help improve their digestion and reduce the urge to eat feces.
4. Train your dog to “leave it”:
Teaching your dog the “leave it” command can help prevent them from eating poop. Start by keeping your dog on a leash and having them approach a pile of poop. When they show interest, say “leave it” and reward them with a treat when they divert their attention away from the poop.
5. Keep your dog’s environment clean:
Dogs are attracted to poop because of the smell, so keeping their living area clean and free of feces can discourage them from eating it. This includes picking up poop in your yard and keeping litter boxes clean.
6. Use deterrent sprays:
There are commercial sprays available that are designed to deter dogs from eating poop. These sprays are safe and can be sprayed on your dog’s poop or in areas where they frequently encounter other animal feces.
You need to remember that not all remedies will work for every dog, so it may take some trial and error to find the best solution for your pet. Always consult with your veterinarian if your dog’s poop-eating behavior continues or becomes excessive, as it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue.
Best Stool Eating Deterrent for Dogs
- NaturVet Coprophagia Stool Eating Deterrent Soft Chews
- Solid Gold Stop Eating Poop Deterrent for Dogs
- For-Bid Stool Eating Preventative Powder
- Nature’s Miracle No More Stool Eating Deterrent
- NaturVet Coprophagia Stool Eating Deterrent Soft Chews
- Four Paws Potty Mouth Stool Eating Deterrent Tablets
- NaturVet Outta My Box Dietary Supplement
- ProSense Stool Eating Deterrent
- Nutri-Vet Anti-Lick Strip prevents chewing and licking
- Solid Gold Stop Eating Poop
SEE ALSO: Why Won’t My Dog Take Treats From My Hand?
FAQs
Q. What is the best product to stop dogs from eating poop?
One of the best products to stop dogs from eating poop is NaturVet Coprophagia Stool Eating Deterrent as it helps deters Dogs from Consuming Stool.
Q. What treats will make my dog stop eating poop?
One of the best treats that will make your dog stop eating poop is pineapple snacks as it helps to break the habit because it makes the poop acidic and unappealing to your dog.
Q. Does pineapple help dogs stop eating poop?
Yes, pineapple has been found to stop dogs from eating poop, so if your dog is partial to the habit, this could be a game changer! Pineapple contains an enzyme that alters the taste and smell of dog poop so that it’s unappetizing to them.
Conclusion
There are several things you can put in your dog’s food to discourage poop eating. Some of these include adding natural deterrents like pineapple or pumpkin to their food, using commercial supplements designed to reduce poop-eating behavior, and addressing any underlying issues such as boredom or nutritional deficiencies. Always consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet and be patient as it may take some trial and error to find the most effective solution for your dog. With proper management and consistency, it is possible to stop your dog from eating poop.