A Comparison of Common Treatments for Coprophagy in Canis familiaris

Coprophagy is a common and undesirable behavior among domestic canines. Data from this study show that 49% of domestic dogs have attempted to eat feces at some point in time and that 28% of dogs are currently coprophagic. Many dog owners are disgusted by this behavior and will go to great lengths to find a treatment for it. Some alter each fecal deposit with hot sauce or other aversive substances, while others try simpler methods such as medication or punishment. Research on coprophagy in canines is sparse, and little is known about treatment efficacy, making coprophagy hard to prevent. In rare cases, medical disorders and intestinal parasites are believed to cause malnourishment, forcing dogs to look for nutrients in abnormal sources. These medical etiologies should be ruled out before owners actively prevent coprophagic behavior. This study used a survey-based design to compare 11 methods for preventing coprophagy. Data showed that the most effective treatments for coprophagy require an active owner–dog relationship. Preventing access to the feces by keeping the dog on a lead, rewarding positive post-elimination behavior and distracting the dog from the feces were the most effective treatments studied. The medications Deter® and Forbid® were moderately effective, with success rates being much higher in younger dogs. The least effective treatment studied was actively ignoring the behavior in the hope that it would go away. The owner of a coprophagic dog must take an active role in preventing coprophagy and be aware of the dog and its surroundings.