Question:
I have a 3-year-old poodle/West Highland terrier mix from the Washington Animal Rescue League. She is a friendly and responsive dog.
There is one problem, though -- she eats squirrel and cat feces. I realize that mother dogs clean up after their pups, but why such a habit in a mature female dog? Sometimes there is residue on the chin hairs, requiring face washing. Is there any way to stop this behavior?
E.H.L., Washington, DC Aug 09, 2009
Answer:
Disciplining the dog is not likely to help. This coprophagia (feces eating) is a natural instinct and could be the way wild dogs get some nutrients and beneficial bacteria into their systems. But this is not a risk-free dietary supplement.
Many dogs stop this behavior when given safe supplements like probiotics, prebiotics (oligosaccharides) and digestive enzymes. Brewer's yeast (1 teaspoon per 30 to 40 pounds) and a dollop of organic yogurt every day in the food may suffice.
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