Why do my dogs chew wood and eat poop? Is it normal? How to stop?

Updated on September 23, 2025

We adopted 2 terrier mixes (both about a year old) last July. Biggest issue is they both want to chew on wood (They have just about destroyed a wooden rocking chair outdoors.) They also want to eat their own excrement. I try very hard to keep it picked up or washed into the ground, and the chairs, I've sprayed with both hot pepper sauce, which was totally ineffective, and also the bitter apple, which has worked to some degree, but not totally. Is this normal???

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Answered By Dr. Kristin DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 9, 2018

There are some dogs that love to chew on wood. It isn't ideal, but it can be a very hard habit to break. I recommend providing alternative toys to chew on, but if that doesn't work you might consider collecting branches for them to chew, which is better than furniture. Make sure they are getting plenty of exercise, as bored dogs tend to be destructive. As far as eating their own feces, yes you need to pick it up right away. Here is a great article with more information about this subject.
https://www.petcoach.co/article/stool-eating-coprophagy/

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Why do my dogs chew wood and eat poop? Is it normal? How to stop?

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