WHY DOES SHIH TZU EAT POOP

Shih Tzu are known for their loveable personalities and friendly nature. However, some Shih Tzu have a habit of eating poop, which can be a frustrating and unsanitary problem for pet owners.

There are several reasons why Shih Tzu might eat poop, including:

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can cause Shih Tzu to eat poop, such as:

Digestive problems:

If your Shih Tzu is not properly digesting their food, they may consume poop in an attempt to get the nutrients they are lacking.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI):

This is a condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to properly digest food. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and the consumption of poop.

Intestinal parasites:

Parasites can irritate the digestive tract and cause diarrhea. This can lead to the consumption of poop as a way to soothe the irritation.

Behavioral Issues

Shih Tzu may also eat poop for behavioral reasons, such as:

Boredom:

A bored Shih Tzu may eat poop as a way to relieve boredom and get attention.

Anxiety:

An anxious Shih Tzu may eat poop as a way to comfort themselves.

Attention-seeking:

Some Shih Tzu may eat poop as a way to get attention from their owners.

Nutritional Deficiencies

A Shih Tzu who is not getting enough nutrients from their diet may eat poop in an attempt to supplement their diet.

Preventing Your Shih Tzu From Eating Poop

There are several things you can do to prevent your Shih Tzu from eating poop, including:

Feed your Shih Tzu a healthy diet:

Make sure your Shih Tzu is getting all the nutrients they need from their diet. This will help to reduce the likelihood of them eating poop.

Keep your Shih Tzu’s living area clean:

This will help to reduce the amount of poop that your Shih Tzu has access to.

Provide your Shih Tzu with plenty of toys and activities:

This will help to keep your Shih Tzu entertained and less likely to eat poop.

Take your Shih Tzu for regular walks:

This will help to keep your Shih Tzu's digestive system healthy and reduce the likelihood of them eating poop.

Train your Shih Tzu not to eat poop:

If you catch your Shih Tzu eating poop, you can use a firm "no" to discourage them. You can also try distracting them with a toy or treat.

Conclusion

Eating poop is a common problem in Shih Tzu. However, there are several things you can do to prevent your Shih Tzu from eating poop. With a little patience and effort, you can help your Shih Tzu to break this habit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why Do Shih Tzu Eat Poop?

Shih Tzu eat poop for various reasons, including medical conditions, behavioral issues, nutritional deficiencies, boredom, anxiety, and attention-seeking.

2. How Can I Prevent My Shih Tzu From Eating Poop?

You can prevent your Shih Tzu from eating poop by feeding them a healthy diet, keeping their living area clean, providing them with plenty of toys and activities, taking them for regular walks, and training them not to eat poop.

3. What Medical Conditions Can Cause Shih Tzu to Eat Poop?

Medical conditions that can cause Shih Tzu to eat poop include digestive problems, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), and intestinal parasites.

4. What Behavior Issues Can Cause Shih Tzu to Eat Poop?

Behavioral issues that can cause Shih Tzu to eat poop include boredom, anxiety, and attention-seeking.

5. What Nutritional Deficiencies Can Cause Shih Tzu to Eat Poop?

Nutritional deficiencies that can cause Shih Tzu to eat poop include a lack of protein, vitamins, and minerals.