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I have a toy poodle which is now 10 months old...she eats her poop...when we are not watching out for her...Any solution for it??
It is a natural behavior to eat their feces under certain conditions. This is one of those situations however that many of the triggers for this behavior could be a result of the dog's surroundings. Therefore, we can only speak generally and suggest you consult a local vet or trainer to assist in correcting the action.
Some of the triggers of this type of behavior are a result of:
Sometimes their diet causes irregular behaviors such as eating feces of their own or other dogs. Consulting a vet for possible changes in diet could assist in taking care of this reaction to an insufficient diet. As with humans different diets are needed for different dogs, even of the same breed.
Health issues can cause this behavior as well. Especially situations that cause excessive hunger or even pain can cause them to react by eating almost anything. Be prepared for your trip to the vet with a fresh fecal specimen. This will help in them determining any possible issues that are health related.
How do you react when you see poop on the floor? Violent reactions can cause mental conditions whereas the dog feels it necessary to eat the poop in fear it will be found by the owner. Even self imposed anxiety due to being alone for prolonged periods of time can cause them to react similarly.
These are areas where a local trainer can help. However, a simple exercise if you feel this is the case is to leave for shorter periods of time and greet your dog appropriately upon returning. Try going outside for fifteen minutes then returning, then try 30. Keep increasing the time, teaching your dog you WILL return each time you leave.
Most importantly in any situation this occurs is to take it seriously. There are natural reasons why this would happen, including simple issues such as proper cleanliness of the areas the dog can roam. Regardless, when this does happen, clean the area where the feces was thoroughly.
We hope this helps.
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