Yikes! 3 Reasons Why Shih Tzus Eat Their Poop: A Complete Guide!

If you've ever wondered why your Shih Tzu eats poop, you're not alone. There are several reasons why this behavior might occur. Generally, there are three main perspectives to consider:

1. Cleanliness and Hygiene

For Shih Tzus, cleanliness and hygiene play a significant role. Shih Tzus are naturally clean dogs, often cleaning their mouth and surroundings after eating. Because of this instinct, they may eat poop to maintain their cleanliness and hygiene.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies

Another reason might be nutritional deficiencies. Just like any other dog, if a Shih Tzu's diet isn't sufficient, they might eat poop thinking it still contains undigested nutrients that they need.

3. Behavioral Issues

Finally, behavioral issues might cause a Shih Tzu to eat poop. Some Shih Tzus might resort to eating poop due to stress, anxiety, or severe boredom. This behavior can be considered abnormal, and owners should closely monitor their Shih Tzu and consider appropriate training and treatment.

It's crucial to note that eating poop can be harmful to a dog's health. If your Shih Tzu isn't getting enough nutrients, this issue might arise. Owners should always observe and manage their pets to prevent this behavior.

Why Does My Shih Tzu Eat Its Own Poop?

Like people, dogs can exhibit coprophagia (the act of eating feces) for various reasons: Nutritional Deficiencies

Stress

Anxiety

Curiosity

Bad Habits

Illness

Parasites

Nutritional Imbalance

Digestive Issues

Food Refusal

Dental Problems

Psychological Issues

Lack of Socialization

Separation Anxiety

Depression

Other Factors

Is There a Cure for Coprophagia in Shih Tzus?

Most cases of coprophagia can improve without special treatment, but if it persists, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended. Instead of relying on just one method, it's best to try various approaches. Start by gradually changing their diet, using positive reinforcement with praise and rewards, and focusing on walks on grassy areas rather than wooded ones. Regular deworming can also help. For chronic cases, professional consultation is advised. Recently, there are spray products designed to prevent coprophagia that you might want to try.