Why Does My Dog Eat Cat Poop? Do All Dogs Try to Eat Cat Poop?

Golden Retriever and British Shorthair eating together — Dogs shouldn't eat cat food, and they *really* shouldn't eat cat poop. Chendongshan / Shutterstock

It’s a question no dog owner wants to ask out loud: Why does my dog eat cat poop?

As gross as it sounds, this behavior — known as coprophagia — is surprisingly common. Many dogs are drawn to the litter box buffet for reasons ranging from instinct to health issues.

Why Dogs Eat Cat Poop

There are several reasons dogs eat cat poop. One is the simple appeal of cat feces. (Look, we didn't program dog brains, so we're not defending this notion, just stating it.)

Another explanation is instinct. A mother dog may eat her puppies' waste to keep the den clean. This natural behavior sometimes carries over to adult dogs, especially if they’re left unsupervised around a litter tray.

Some dogs eat poop — including their own — due to nutritional deficiency, lack of mental stimulation, or boredom.

If your dogs or young puppies eat cat poop regularly, it may be time to evaluate their diet and exercise routine.

Is Eating Cat Poop Bad for Dogs?

Cat with litter box — This cat is shocked that the dog at its poop. Strigana / Shutterstock

Yes, eating cat poop can be harmful to your dog's health. Feces may contain intestinal parasites, harmful bacteria, or even remnants of medications that cats have taken. Large quantities could also lead to gastrointestinal problems or even intestinal blockage if litter is ingested.

Puppies and young dogs are especially vulnerable to infections from feces because their immune systems are still developing.

If your dog is showing signs of illness — vomiting, diarrhea, or behavioral changes — after eating cat feces, seek veterinary advice immediately.

How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Cat Poop

To prevent access to the litter box, try placing it in a room your dog can’t enter. A baby gate with a small opening can allow the cat through while keeping your dog out. Covered litter boxes or high shelves can also reduce temptation.

Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise, mental stimulation, and a complete diet (which doesn't include eating feces). A dog trainer can help reinforce good behavior using positive reinforcement.

You should also ensure your cat’s litter box is cleaned regularly. Most dogs are opportunists; if there’s nothing to grab, they’ll move on.

When to Talk to a Vet

Dog at vet — If cat poop has become a regular in your dog's diet, it's time to see the vet. Sata Production / Shutterstock

If your dog’s poop-eating habit is new or seems compulsive, it may signal an underlying medical condition. Issues like gastrointestinal problems, parasites, or nutritional deficiencies should be ruled out by a veterinarian.

And while most dogs won't get seriously sick from a single litter box raid, regular exposure increases the risk of health issues. Ask your vet about potential treatments or tests if your dog just won’t quit the habit.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.