Bernese Mountain Dog Eating Poop: Causes and Solutions

Bernese Mountain Dogs, like many other breeds, can exhibit the behavior of eating poop, also known as coprophagia. This habit can be distressing for pet owners, but there are several reasons why dogs engage in this behavior and ways to prevent it.

Reasons for Bernese Mountain Dogs Eating Poop

1. Inquisitive Nature: Bernese Mountain Dogs are naturally curious and competitive, which can lead them to investigate and eat poop, especially if they see their owners picking it up.
2. Diet: The type of food fed to Bernese Mountain Dogs can contribute to this behavior. High-fiber diets can result in stool that resembles the food they eat, making it more appealing to them.
3. Maternal Instinct: Female Bernese Mountain Dogs may eat their puppies’ poop to keep the area clean and prevent health risks to the puppies.
4. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation: Dogs that are bored or lonely may engage in coprophagia as a form of entertainment.
5. Medical Conditions: In some cases, medical conditions like gastrointestinal issues or vitamin deficiencies can cause dogs to eat poop.

Preventing and Managing Bernese Mountain Dog Poop Eating

1. Clean Up Immediately: Quickly cleaning up after your dog can prevent them from accessing and eating their own poop.
2. Distract and Redirect: Use positive reinforcement techniques like “sit” and “stay” commands, followed by treats, to distract your dog from the poop and redirect their attention.
3. Dietary Changes: Consider switching to a low-residue diet or adding deterrents like pineapple or courgette to their food.
4. Supervise and Train: Supervise your dog during walks and potty breaks, and teach them to “leave it” and “come” commands to prevent them from eating poop.
5. Taste-Aversion Products: Use products containing unpleasant tastes and smells to make the poop less appealing to your dog.

Real-Life Incidents and Statistics

• According to a veterinarian, female dogs may eat their puppies’ poop to keep the area clean and prevent health risks.
• A Reddit user reported that their Bernese Mountain Dog stopped eating poop after adding small amounts of pineapple to their food.
• Another user mentioned that their dog outgrew the habit after about a year and a half of consistent training and supervision.

Additional Facts about Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poop Eating

• Bernese Mountain Dogs are a large breed of dog known for their friendly, loyal, and intelligent nature. They were originally bred in the Swiss Alps as working dogs, but they have become popular family companions in many parts of the world.
• Poop eating, or coprophagia, is a common behavior in dogs, and it’s not limited to Bernese Mountain Dogs. It’s estimated that up to 15% of dogs engage in this behavior at some point in their lives.
• Bernese Mountain Dogs are particularly prone to poop eating due to their high-energy, curious nature. They may be more likely to investigate and consume their own or other animals’ feces.
• Poop eating can be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as a nutritional deficiency or gastrointestinal problem. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian if the behavior persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
• In addition to the prevention and management strategies mentioned earlier, owners of Bernese Mountain Dogs can also consider environmental enrichment, such as providing more exercise, toys, and mental stimulation, to reduce the likelihood of poop eating.

Conclusion

Bernese Mountain Dogs are beloved companions, but their tendency to eat poop can be a frustrating and concerning behavior for their owners. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior and implementing effective prevention and management strategies, Bernese Mountain Dog owners can help their furry friends overcome this habit and maintain good health and hygiene.

References:

1. Metro. (2021). Vet explains why dogs eat poop and how can they be stopped. Retrieved from https://metro.co.uk/2021/07/26/vet-explains-why-dogs-eat-poop-and-how-can-they-be-stopped-14991290/
2. Reddit. (2022). How to stop our dog from eating poop? Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/bernesemountaindogs/comments/zpfw8x/how_to_stop_our_dog_from_eating_poop/
3. JustAnswer. (2008). My Bernese Mountain dog puppy (8 months) eats anything that he can find. Retrieved from https://www.justanswer.com/pet-dog/18ndi-bernese-mountain-dog-puppy-8-months-eats.html
4. Wag. (n.d.). Why Dogs Eat Poo: It’s More Common Than You Think Retrieved from https://wagwalking.com/daily/dogs-eat-poo-common-think
5. American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Why Dogs Eat Poop and How to Stop It. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-dogs-eat-poop/.