First, clean up immediately. The best cure is prevention. Pick up poop as soon as your dog goes, and you remove the temptation entirely. It’s the zero-balance approach to poop budgeting.
Add dietary supplements like digestive enzymes, probiotics, or meat tenderizer (yes, it’s a home remedy). Some owners swear by adding a small amount of canned pumpkin or pineapple—apparently, pineapple changes the taste of stool to something repulsive. That’s a win for science and for your nose.
Keep your dog mentally stimulated with puzzle toys, training sessions, and walks. A bored dog is a creative eater. Give them better things to do than foraging in the backyard.
When to Call the Vet
If your dog suddenly starts eating poop after years of being normal, or if they lose weight, vomit, or seem lethargic, go see a veterinarian. Some medical conditions (like Cushing’s disease or thyroid issues) can trigger this behavior. Treat the root cause, and the habit often vanishes.