Coprophagia, the technical term for stool-eating, is a behavior that, while unappealing to owners, is not uncommon in Shih Tzus. This habit is observed in both genders, though it appears more prevalent in females. As a breeder, I’ve found it essential to prepare new Shih Tzu owners for this possibility, as it can cause significant concern, especially for first-time owners. The good news is that for puppies, consuming a small amount of their own, parasite-free feces is unlikely to cause illness. The risk increases if a large quantity is ingested or if the stool belongs to another animal that might harbor intestinal parasites, such as a rabbit, deer, or cat. Consuming foreign stool can lead to digestive upset and the contraction of intestinal parasites. Therefore, maintaining a clean environment for your puppy is crucial.
Why Shih Tzus and Other Small Breeds?
Shih Tzus are not unique in this behavior. Many adult dogs of toy and miniature breeds occasionally engage in coprophagia. Even puppies of larger breeds may exhibit this tendency, but it typically ceases as they mature.
Exploring the Reasons Behind Coprophagia
Various theories attempt to explain this behavior, including vitamin deficiencies and boredom. One common belief is that puppies learn this habit from their mothers, who meticulously keep their whelping areas clean through ingestion of waste. While I lack definitive evidence to support or refute these theories, my personal experience suggests that coprophagia might be an inherited trait, appearing more frequently in certain bloodlines. I’ve observed this tendency in related female dogs, leading me to suspect it can be passed down, much like other personality traits, particularly through the maternal line. My goal as a breeder is to eventually select against this trait. In the meantime, the most effective strategy is to proactively clean up after your dog before they have the opportunity to consume their feces. Fortunately, many puppies, especially males, outgrow this habit over time, particularly when they are walked on a leash and not given unsupervised access to their waste. As long as they aren’t sharing a yard with other dogs, they generally lose interest. The most direct way to curb coprophagia, as I advise prospective puppy buyers, is to prevent access to feces. what food shouldn t dogs have.
Strategies for Managing Coprophagia
Owners often inquire about the efficacy of commercial products like “Deter” and “For-Bid,” or the use of meat tenderizer in food. In my experience and that of others, these methods have yielded minimal to no success. A more promising, albeit time-consuming, approach involves “baiting” the feces with a generous amount of Tabasco sauce. The strong taste is reported to deter dogs for months, though reapplication may be necessary if the habit resurfaces. Another anecdotal remedy involves sprinkling dried red pepper flakes on feces, similar to pizza toppings. This method might be suitable for puppies over six months old, but caution is advised for very young dogs. More recently, a product called S.E.P. (Stop Eating Poop) has shown some success. It’s often used in conjunction with teaching the “leave it” command, which can be invaluable when you catch your dog in the act, giving you a chance to intervene. However, this requires consistent and patient training. When I once consulted a friend experienced in breeding and training Shih Tzus, her wise advice was to “look the other way and pretend you don’t see it.” This sentiment highlights the importance of accepting our Shih Tzus, imperfections and all, and focusing on our bond with them. what raw meat can pitbulls eat. Many puppies will outgrow this behavior, especially with consistent management and by preventing access to feces.
Conclusion
While coprophagia is an unpleasant habit, it is often manageable with patience and consistent effort. By understanding potential causes and implementing effective strategies, owners can significantly reduce or eliminate this behavior in their Shih Tzus. Keeping the environment clean, preventing access to feces, and employing deterrents like spicy seasonings can all contribute to a solution. Remember, the goal is to guide your dog towards healthier habits while cherishing the companionship they offer. If the problem persists or causes significant distress, consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer can provide additional guidance and support. what vegetables can i feed my dog with kidney disease.
