Accepted Answer

Hi,
There are a couple of things you can do to stop this behavior.

First off there is a product many people find useful called "For Bid" that you mix in your dogs food and it causes the feces to have a bitter taste they don't like. you can buy it many places (most pet stores) or here: http://www.jefferspet.com/ssc/product.asp?CID=0&pf_id=11801

A second idea is some dogs will respond to a remotely activated citronella collar, when the dog tries to eat the stool, you activate the collar (the collar sprays a citrus smell by their nose that most dogs hate). Then hopefully there is an association with something aversive with picking up stool. This will not work if the dog has the opportunity to be outside unsupervised and eat feces.

Of course, cleaning up after the dogs when they defecate is important as well. Leash walking makes that easier and then there are fewer stools in the yard for the dog to eat.

Finally some people place a "basket" muzzle on their dogs when letting then out in the yard unsupervised. This does not restrict them from opening their mouth, but keeps them from eating anything outside.

Expert:	Dr. Jamie
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:	287
Answered:	1/19/2010

Dog Veterinarian

Over 5 years experience in canine medicine and surgery.