How to Get Dogs to Stop Eating Rabbit Poop

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Dogs can do the strangest things sometimes, including eating rabbit poop. So, what can you do to get them to stop? Keep reading because we've got everything you need to know about dogs eating rabbit poop, from why they do it to how to prevent it. With our easy tips and tricks, you can get your dog to stop eating rabbit poop in no time.

This article is based on an interview with our certified dog behavior consultant, Lauren Novack. Check out the full interview here.

How do I stop my dog from eating rabbit poop?

Keep a close eye on your dog to prevent them from eating rabbit poop. It can also help to teach your dog the "drop it" and leave it commands, and to deter them with a taste-aversion spray. Improving your dog's diet and playing with them while they're outside can also be helpful.

Section 1 of 4:

Why do dogs eat rabbit poop?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Curiosity and hunger all play a part, but eating rabbit poop excessively could be a sign of a more serious problem, like a nutrient deficiency or pica. It’s best to monitor your dog’s behavior the moment you notice them eating rabbit poop and do your best to get them to stop. [1]
    • In most cases, poop eating behavior will stop in puppies when they’re around nine months old as their curiosity will fade with age.
    2. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

Is it safe for dogs to eat rabbit poop?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    However, it’s better to keep them away from any droppings just to be safe. Rabbit poop can contain parasites, viruses, and toxins. While having a few nibbles won’t necessarily hurt them, it can be a health risk. [2]
    • Monitor your pup’s behavior after they’ve eaten rabbit poop. If they start getting sick or behaving oddly, bring them to the vet.
Section 3 of 4:

How to Stop Dogs from Eating Rabbit Poop

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you notice them chomping down on something in the grass, give a “leave it” or “come” command. This will draw your dog away from the rabbit poop and give you the chance to focus their attention on something else, like a chew toy or game of fetch. [3]
    • Reward your pup with a treat or praise if they come to you right away. This will reinforce that moving away from the rabbit poop is good behavior. [4]
    • Try to avoid repeating a command over and over again, as this will tell your dog that they don’t have to listen right away. [5]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ef\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ef\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When trained correctly, this command will cue your dog to drop whatever’s in their mouth, no matter how delicious they may think it is. The more often you say “drop it” when you notice them eating rabbit poop, the more likely they are to stay away from it—they want to be “good” after all! Follow these steps to teach “drop it” : [6]
    • Give your dog a toy and let them play with it for a few moments.
    • Put a high-value treat in front of their nose.
    • Praise them when they drop the toy and give them the treat.
    • Hide the toy behind your back while they’re eating.
    • Give them back the toy when they’re done and repeat.
    • Add saying “drop it” when you show the treat once they start dropping the toy right away.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you see your pup itching closer and closer to a pile of rabbit poop, say, “leave it.” This will teach them that they shouldn't play with rabbit poop. Follow these steps to train your dog to “leave it”: [7]
    • Place a low-value treat in your hand and hold it out to your dog.
    • Close your hand into a fist when they try to eat the treat.
    • Reward them with a high-value treat once they ignore your closed hand.
    • Switch the hand the low-value treat is in, and continue rewarding with a high-value treat when your dog ignores the low-value treat.
    • Say “leave it” when they start ignoring the treat when your hand is open.
    • Put the low-value treat on the ground and say “leave it” once they can ignore the treat in both hands.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    One of the main reasons dogs eat rabbit poop is curiosity. Try focusing their attention and curious-mind on something they won’t eat, like a tennis ball, a game of hide and seek, or a chew toy. [8]
    • Giving your dog something else to chew on or a treat they can eat will fulfill their curiosity.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Most dogs eat rabbit poop because they’re hungry and, in more serious cases, are in a nutrient deficit. Try switching up your dog’s food for something rich in proteins, fats, and minerals, or consider adding vitamins or supplements to your dog’s routine. [9]
    • Dog multivitamins can help your pup get all the vitamins they need. [10]
    • Supplements that contain the enzyme papain may help your dog’s digestive system break down nutrients. [11]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Surprisingly, dogs enjoy the taste of rabbit poop. The smell might pique their curiosity, and they're gulping it all down before you know it. Taste-aversion sprays are designed to make that once delectable smell and taste atrocious. Add a few spritzes to a pile of rabbit poop, so your dog will be disgusted the next time they go for a nibble. [12]
    • Taste-aversion products are not a one-stop fix. They may not deter some dogs, so keep a watchful eye to see how your pup reacts.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e3\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e3\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When a dog eats rabbit poop, there’s a strong chance they’re ingesting parasites, viruses, or toxins which can cause gastrointestinal problems. [13] Pica is a medical or behavioral disorder where dogs ingest non-food items. [14] If your pup keeps trying to eat rabbit poop no matter how you deter them, there may be an underlying problem only a vet can diagnose.
    • Eating rabbit poop could be because of pica or the reason for it. If your dog is acting differently in any way, it’s better to get them checked out sooner rather than later.
    8. Advertisement
Section 4 of 4:

How can I prevent rabbits from pooping in my yard?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Get-Dogs-to-Not-Eat-Rabbit-Poop-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Fence in your yard and plant rabbit deterring plants to keep rabbits away . Chicken wire fencing that’s at least 4 feet (1.2 m) high and 6 inches (15 cm) deep can help lock rabbits out. You can also try raking away leaves and filling in holes and burrows to let rabbits know that your yard isn’t a safe place to live or hide. Lastly, plant butterfly bushes, peonies, or geraniums around your yard to up the curb appeal and keep rabbits from hopping about. [15]

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How Long Does it Take for Dogs to Get Unstuck After Mating?
      Fatty Tumors (Lipomas) in Dogs: Causes and Natural Remedies
      What to Give a Dog with Parvo (And How to Entice Them to Eat)
      How to Sell Puppies
      How to
      Measure Dog Height
      How to Build an Outdoor Dog Potty Area on Concrete in 12 Easy Steps
      How to
      Register a Dog Without Papers
      How to
      Determine Your Dog's Age By Its Teeth
      How to
      Make a Dog Love You
      How to
      Keep Diapers on a Dog
      12 Common Reasons Why Dogs Put Their Ears Back
      How to
      Tell if a Dog Is Microchipped
      How to Clean Dog Pee from a Mattress
      How to Tell How Big a Mixed Puppy Will Get: 12 Ways
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-dogs-eat-poop/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-dogs-eat-poop/
      3. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-dogs-eat-poop/
      4. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-curb-unwanted-dog-behaviors/
      5. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/train-dog-common-mistakes-avoid%E2%80%8B/
      6. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/teaching-your-dog-to-drop-it/
      7. ↑ https://akc.tv/watch/19/158/video-3/teach-your-dog-how-to-leave-it/
      8. ↑ https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/enrichment-dogs-shelters
      9. ↑ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-nutrition-tips
      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-dogs-eat-poop/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-dogs-eat-poop/
      3. ↑ https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/coprophagia-in-dogs-dogs-eating-poo
      4. ↑ https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/why-does-my-dog-eat-poop
      5. ↑ https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/pica-dogs-causes-diagnosis-and-treatment
      6. ↑ https://northerngardener.org/battling-bunnies-garden/

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 86,761 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Sara Whitlock

        Feb 9, 2023

        "This really helped me and my dog, Raven. She kept eating rabbit turds, and they started to make her sick. I was ..." more
      Share your story
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement