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Ew, did your dog just snack on rabbit poop? Yep, it’s as gross as it sounds. But don’t freak out just yet! As a veterinarian who’s helped hundreds of pet parents deal with this exact issue, I can tell you, it’s way more common than you’d think.
There are several reasons why feces can actually be quite tempting for our canine companions to eat. It’s not uncommon for dogs to eat cat poop or even their own. But what’s the main factor behind this extremely odd behavior?
In this article, I’ll explain exactly why dogs are drawn to rabbit droppings, what health risks you should watch out for, and the steps I recommend if your pup just couldn’t resist. If you’re wondering, “Why does my dog eat rabbit droppings?” you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re dealing with this for the first time or it’s become a weird habit, here’s what you need to know, straight from a vet who’s seen it all.
Why Dogs Eat Rabbit Poop: Normal Behavior Or Health Concern?
Are you wondering, “Why do dogs eat rabbit droppings?” Let’s be honest, catching your dog munching on rabbit poop isn’t exactly a moment you want to scrapbook. But before you lose your mind, take a deep breath. This behavior, while gross to us, is surprisingly common among dogs, and in many cases, it’s totally harmless.
As a veterinarian, I get asked about this all the time. Dogs sniff, taste, and sometimes eat the weirdest things (hello, socks and mulch). Rabbit droppings are just another item on their bizarre buffet. But why? Let’s break it down.
4 Common Reasons Dogs Are Attracted To Rabbit Droppings
- It Smells Interesting. Rabbit poop has a strong scent that dogs can’t seem to resist, especially if they’re natural hunters or scent-driven breeds like Beagles or Retrievers.
- It Mimics Nutrient-Rich Snacks. Believe it or not, rabbit feces contain undigested nutrients. In the wild, dogs and wolves often scavenge for nutrient-rich “leftovers,” and that instinct hasn’t gone away.
- Your Dog’s Just Curious. Puppies and even adult dogs explore the world with their mouths. It doesn’t always mean something is wrong. It could just be their version of “what’s this?”
- Convenient Snack. Rabbit droppings are the perfect size to nibble on. Plus, they are often found away from where their pet parent can take it away from them! All of this makes rabbit poop a perfect snack for a dog.
Rabbit droppings are largely made up of digested grass, green plants, and vegetables, with a sprinkling of rabbit fur and bacteria and a seasoning of intestinal mucus. These in themselves are usually not overly dangerous for a dog. So, in most cases eating small amounts of rabbit poop will not cause a problem. However, you may not want your canine companion to lick your face for a little while!
Coprophagia In Dogs: Instinct, Curiosity, Or Deficiency?
The technical term for eating feces is coprophagia, and it’s not exclusive to rabbit poop. Some dogs eat their own stool, others eat the poop of other animals, such as rabits, birds, or cattle. While this can be behavioral, it’s sometimes linked to:
- Dietary deficiencies
- Boredom or anxiety
- Learned behavior from other dogs
Vet Tip: Occasional poop-eating usually isn’t a red flag. But if it becomes frequent or obsessive, that’s your cue to talk with your vet. We can rule out medical causes and help address the behavior.
So, should you worry? Maybe, but not always. You’re probably in the clear if your dog seems healthy and only dabbled in a little bunny buffet once or twice. But it’s time to dig deeper if they’re making it a habit or showing any signs of illness (vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea).
Is My Dog Eating Poop Because Of Missing Nutrients?
When your dog goes from “sniff” to “snack” on rabbit poop, it’s hard not to wonder if something deeper is going on. Like, is my dog lacking something in their diet? The short answer is possibly.
While most commercial dog foods are well-balanced, a nutritional deficiency (especially in vitamins like B12 or digestive enzymes) can sometimes drive your dog to search for what they’re missing, often in some pretty questionable places.
Dietary Gaps That May Lead To Coprophagia
Here are a few potential culprits that could lead your dog down the rabbit-poop path:
- Enzyme Deficiency. Dogs may instinctively try to “supplement” by eating feces if their food lacks digestive enzymes.
- Vitamin B Deficiency: B-complex vitamins, especially B12 (cobalamin), play a key role in digestion and energy. Low levels may lead to scavenging behavior.
- Low-Quality Dog Food: Not all kibble is created equal. Fillers and poor protein sources can leave your dog hungry for more, both literally and nutritionally.
Watch this video explaining how to stop your dog from eating rabbit poop (and other kinds of poop).
How to Evaluate Your Dog’s Nutrition with Your Vet
Rabbit poop may just be an opportunistic snack, but sometimes, it’s your dog’s way of telling you something’s missing. A quick diet check-in could help curb the habit and make those backyard strolls a little less eventful. Learn more about the nutritional requirements of dogs in MSD’s Veterinary Manual.
If your pup is suddenly obsessed with poop, it’s worth checking in with your veterinarian. We can:
- Review your dog’s current diet
- Run a fecal and blood panel to check for imbalances
- Recommend enzyme supplements or a food switch (if needed)
Vet Tip: Bring the label from your dog food to your next appointment. It makes it easier for us to spot gaps or red flags quickly.
We have reviewed the best dog food for your pup if you’re looking for a well-balanced, high-quality dog diet. We have also reviewed the best fresh dog food offerings, which commonly use human-grade ingredients and all the nutrients most dogs need to stay fit and healthy (and hopefully away from those rabbit droppings).
Is Rabbit Feces Harmful To Dogs?
If your dog just gobbled up some rabbit poop, your first instinct is probably panic, and hey, that’s fair. But here’s the good news: most healthy adult dogs won’t get seriously sick from the occasional nibble. That said, it’s not exactly a harmless snack either.
Let me break down the real risks so you know when to worry and when to just watch and wait.
What’s In Rabbit Poop? Potential Risks Explained
Rabbit poop comes in two forms:
- Round Dry Pellets. These are the typical rabbit poop that are round and dry, and the ones you probably stepped on barefoot once. Ouch!
- Cecotropes. These are soft, nutrient-rich droppings rabbits re-ingest, but are less common for dogs to find.
Both types can contain undigested plant material, and these nutrients often lead dogs to eat rabbit feces. However, they can also contain bacteria or parasites from the rabbit’s digestive tract, fungal spores, or environmental pathogens. Most of the time, your dog’s stomach acid will neutralize anything harmful. So, is rabbit poop toxic toxic to dogs? Rarely, but yes. Certain risks exist, especially for puppies, seniors, or pups with weakened immune systems.
Toxins & Parasites Dogs Can Ingest From Rabbit Droppings
Rabbit feces are more likely to carry germs if they come from wild rabbits rather than household pets. Here’s what might tag along with those tiny pellets:
- Giardiasis or Coccidia. Protozoal parasites that cause diarrhea and stomach upset.
- Roundworms or Tapeworms. Rare, but possible if the rabbit was infected.
- Bacterial Infections. These could include E. coli or Salmonella, especially if the poop was old or contaminated.
Vet Insight: These infections are uncommon but not impossible in healthy dogs. We take it more seriously if your dog is eating a lot of rabbit poop regularly, or if they’re showing symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea afterward.
If your pup is acting normal and healthy after their “bunny buffet,” a little monitoring might be all that’s needed. But if you notice any changes, especially gastrointestinal ones, it’s best to loop in your vet sooner rather than later. So, if you’re wondering, “Can rabbit droppings make my dog sick?”, the answer is yes, they can.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Rabbit Feces: Step-by-Step Guide
So, you just caught your dog red-pawed, chomping down on some rabbit droppings. Gross, yes. Dangerous? Maybe. But don’t panic, I’ve got a clear plan to follow. Here’s exactly what you should do right now:
- Stay Calm. Dogs pick up on your energy. Keeping things low-key helps avoid turning this into an attention-seeking habit.
- Remove Your Dog From The Area. Gently guide them away from the bunny buffet and block access if possible.
- Check Their Mouth. Look for any stuck debris. If they’ll let you, wipe their mouth with a damp cloth or offer water to help rinse things out.
- Analyze What’s Been Consumed. Try to work out roughly what’s been eaten and make a note of the time. For example, it is helpful to know if pet rabbit droppings or wild rabbit droppings have been eaten.
- Call Your Veterinarian. Follow the advice of the veterinary clinic. They may advise you to continue managing your dog at home. But if the symptoms are concerning, or if your dog has pre-existing health conditions like a sensitive tummy, then the professional advice may be to come in and have a health check with the veterinarian.
- Watch For Symptoms. Over the next 24 to 72 hours, keep an eye out for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a loss of appetite.
By following these steps, you’ll be sure that your veterinarian has all the information they need and that your pup will be in a good place to take whatever action your vet recommends.
It is important to note that many of the germs and parasites that can pass from rabbit to dog can also pass to humans. So, do be careful about your own hygiene and health. Make sure you wash your hands with soap!
Emergency Situations: When To Call The Vet Now
If your dog:
- Ate a large amount of rabbit poop
- Starts vomiting repeatedly
- Has diarrhea that lasts more than a day
- Seems unusually tired, shaky, or “off”
Don’t wait; call your vet immediately. These can be signs of parasitic infection, bacterial imbalance, or even toxin exposure (depending on the environment).
Vet Tip: Take a photo of the poop pile or bring a sample (yep, really). If your vet needs to test it or confirm it came from a rabbit, this helps.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Sick From Rabbit Droppings
Most of the time, a little rabbit poop is just that, gross, but not a crisis. Still, as a vet, I always advise keeping a close eye on your dog for the next 24 to 72 hours. If something’s off, it usually shows up fast. Here are the top symptoms to watch for that might signal an issue:
- Diarrhea. One of the most common red flags, especially if it’s frequent, bloody, or mucus-filled.
- Vomiting. Occasional spit-up isn’t unusual, but repeated vomiting? That’s a problem.
- Lethargy. If your dog seems unusually tired, weak, or just “not themselves,” trust your gut.
- Loss of Appetite. Skipping one meal may be okay. More than that? Time to call the vet.
- Abdominal Pain. Whining, stretching oddly, or avoiding touch near the belly are all signs.
Vet Insight: These symptoms could point to mild digestive upset or something more serious like a parasite, bacterial infection, or even toxin exposure if the poop came from a sick rabbit or contaminated environment.
How Long After Rabbit Poop Ingestion Do Symptoms Appear?
Rabbit poop can contain various nasty germs that can upset a dog’s stomach. In the week after rabbit droppings are eaten, you might see your dog become lethargic, eat less, and have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more likely if they have a sensitive stomach or other pre-existing conditions like pancreatitis. If any of these symptoms start after eating rabbit feces, make sure you contact your local veterinary clinic for advice.
Regarding timing, mild gastrointestinal reactions typically appear within six to twelve hours of ingestion. However, symptoms from parasitic infections like Giardia or Coccidia might not develop for several days. That’s why ongoing observation is key. If you notice even subtle shifts in appetite, behavior, or energy, jot them down. A short log of what your dog ate and when symptoms appeared can be incredibly helpful for your vet and could speed up both diagnosis and treatment.
In general, the tummy upsets associated with rabbit droppings are likely to be short-lived. Your pup will likely be ill only for a few short days. Most dogs will recover without trouble. That said, some of the bugs and parasites in rabbit feces can cause prolonged problems. These problems may include chronic diarrhea lasting several weeks or more.
How Vets Treat Dogs After Ingesting Rabbit Feces
In most cases, your dog will show no symptoms of ill health and can be treated as normal. Some dogs will get a mild tummy upset for a few days. If this happens, it is sensible to feed them a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice, for example), given little and often. As long as your dog is still bright and eating reasonably, then these cases can be managed well at home.
Veterinary Treatment For Dogs Who Ate Rabbit Poop
If your dog starts showing symptoms after eating rabbit poop, or if you’re just playing it safe with a vet visit, here’s the likely veterinary treatment for dogs who ate rabbit poop.
First, your veterinarian will ask about the incident. Their questions might include how much your dog may have eaten, when it happened, and whether you’ve observed any symptoms. From there, we usually perform a physical exam and may recommend a fecal test. This test can help identify common parasites like Giardia, Coccidia, or roundworms, which sometimes lurk in wild animal droppings.
If symptoms are already present, like diarrhea or vomiting, your vet might suggest bloodwork to rule out dehydration or more systemic issues. In some cases, we may prescribe anti-diarrheal medications, probiotics, or even antibiotics if there’s a suspected bacterial infection. If parasites are found, a deworming medication or antiparasitic treatment will typically be prescribed. The good news? Most dogs respond well to early treatment, especially if they’re otherwise healthy.
It’s also not uncommon for your vet to discuss your dog’s current diet and behavior during this visit. Since coprophagia can sometimes be linked to nutrient deficiencies or behavioral triggers, you might want to review their diet or get in touch with a dog behaviorist. We want to make sure we’re addressing the full picture, not just the immediate symptoms.
In more serious cases, such as prolonged vomiting or signs of lethargy and weakness, your dog may require supportive care like fluids or hospitalization. These situations are rare but important to catch early. Your veterinarian may suggest imaging (ultrasound or X-ray) of the tummy if your dog is very sick, but in most cases, these will not be necessary. These more intensive therapies are more likely to be employed if a pre-existing condition is present. Pre-existing conditions have a tendency to make illnesses worse.
Early Care, Better Outcomes
Overall, the goal is to rule out infections, manage symptoms quickly, and help prevent this from becoming a recurring (and gross) habit. Most cases are mild and manageable, but getting professional insight early can save you a lot of worry and potentially a lot of discomfort for your dog.
In my experience in practice, it is unusual to see clinical symptoms after eating rabbit poop, but those that do come in tend to recover well with just a little help. In rare cases, a fecal sample has revealed something more that could have come from the rabbit feces. That said, most of these infections from rabbit feces are manageable and treatable. However, they all require different treatments, so an accurate diagnosis is essential.
Could Pet Insurance Help?
If your pet insurance covers exam fees and your dog needs an examination, there is a good chance your policy will reimburse those costs based on your policy details. However, if you are a new customer, vet expenses will not be covered until after your policy’s defined waiting periods, so signing up once you have an existing health concern is not going to help this time. Pre-existing conditions are not covered by any current pet insurance plans.
This is why it is a great idea to sign up for a pet insurance policy when your pet is young and relatively healthy, to ensure you will be covered when you need it most. You can also use our pet insurance quote engine below to help you find an option that is right for you and your pup.
Will My Dog Be Okay? Understanding The Prognosis
In most cases, yes, your dog will be absolutely fine after eating rabbit poop. The vast majority of dogs will make a complete recovery within a week or so after eating rabbit poop. Those with longer-term symptoms are also likely to recover eventually. However, they will need the help of a veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Most dogs bounce back within a day or two, especially with rest and a bland diet if needed. If your vet prescribed medication, such as probiotics, antiparasitics, or antibiotics, be sure to complete the full course, even if your dog seems better before it’s finished. Monitoring your dog for recurring symptoms over the next week is also a good idea. If you notice new digestive issues, changes in appetite, or behavior that feels “off,” contact your vet. In rare cases, infections like Giardia can linger or reappear.
How To Prevent Your Dog From Eating Poop
Let’s face it, once your dog discovers rabbit poop, they may go back for seconds. Or thirds. And while the occasional bite might not be harmful, turning it into a habit is a problem worth solving. The key to stopping your dog from eating poop? A mix of behavior training, environmental control, and a little detective work.
Training Tips & Behavioral Modifications That Work
Start with the basics: teach a reliable “leave it” command. This simple cue can stop your dog in their tracks before they scoop up something they shouldn’t. Practice it with high-value treats in low-distraction environments before using it in the yard or on walks. Positive reinforcement is your best tool. When your dog ignores rabbit poop or responds to “leave it,” reward them immediately. You’re reinforcing the behavior you want, ignoring the temptation.
You can also redirect their energy by providing more enrichment: food puzzles, scent games, and interactive toys help satisfy the curiosity and foraging drive that often fuels poop-eating.
If wild rabbit droppings are the issue, it may be worth looking for walks and routes that avoid the densest rabbit populations. This should help you avoid poop, and Fido’s temptation, altogether.
Yard Clean-Up & Rabbit Deterrents For Dog Safety
Even with training, opportunity is everything. Regular yard patrols to clean up rabbit droppings can make a huge difference, especially if you live in an area with a lot of wildlife activity. To keep rabbits out of your yard in the first place, try:
- Motion-activated sprinklers
- Seal off fencing gaps near shrubs or garden beds
- Scent-based repellents (just make sure they’re dog-safe)
If these don’t work, try removing bird feeders (which attract rabbits), trimming your lawn, and limiting hiding spots, which can also reduce the number of bunnies visiting your space. If pet rabbit droppings are the issue, it may be worth trying to separate the living spaces of your rabbit and your pup.
Muzzle Training: A Last-Resort Tool For Poop Prevention
If rabbit poop and other interesting-smelling objects are a regular problematic habit, then one sensible option is to train your pup to accept a basket muzzle. This will allow them to breathe easily and pant, but not allow them to eat things while out and about.
Introducing the muzzle gradually and positively is important so your dog associates it with fun, not punishment. Muzzles shouldn’t replace training or supervision, but in persistent cases, they can be part of a safe, vet-approved prevention plan.
Our Personal Experience With Our Dog Eating Poop
Unfortunately, my dog is a fan of eating poop (both human and animal feces). He often sniffs out poop while on walks. Sadly, it can be a challenge to see what he’s trying to stick his nose in when it’s dark, only to find out when it’s too late. His sense of smell is super strong, and I don’t understand why eating poop tastes good, especially since he’s such a picky eater. We have to monitor him closely when there might be poop around so we can redirect his attention elsewhere.
– Sadie Cornelius, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Parent & Marketing For Canine Journal
Frequently Asked Questions
You’re not alone if you’ve got more questions swirling around after catching your dog with a mouthful of bunny droppings. Here are some of the most common ones I hear from pet parents, answered from a veterinarian’s perspective. If you don’t see your question below, ask us in the comments, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Can My Puppy Get Worms From Rabbit Poop?
Yes, it’s possible, though not common. Rabbit feces can carry parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, or protozoa such as Coccidia and Giardia. Puppies are more vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing, so even small exposures can lead to bigger issues. If your puppy starts having diarrhea, seems less playful, or shows signs of discomfort, call your vet.
Can Adult Dogs Catch Worms From Rabbit Poop?
Yes, it’s possible, though adult dogs typically tolerate parasites better than puppies or seniors, who are more vulnerable due to their developing immune systems. Rabbits do not suffer from worms as commonly as dogs and cats do, but they can still pass roundworms and tapeworms to dogs. The most likely one for them to carry is the pinworm. Dogs can also pass worms back to rabbits. This is another good reason to pick up your dog’s poop too! Dogs need treatment for worms at least quarterly, in any case.
Is Eating Rabbit Poop Dangerous For Senior Dogs?
Senior dogs often have weaker immune systems or underlying health conditions that make them more sensitive to bacteria and parasites. Even if your older dog has done this before without issues, repeated ingestion or new symptoms like lethargy or stomach upset should be taken seriously.
Is This A Sign My Dog Isn’t Getting Enough Food?
Not necessarily. Dogs with a balanced diet can still be drawn to rabbit poop out of curiosity, boredom, or habit. That said, if poop-eating becomes obsessive or coincides with weight loss or constant hunger, it’s worth evaluating your dog’s food and overall health with your vet.
Can Dogs Get Sick Days After Eating Rabbit Poop?
Yes, some infections or parasites take time to show symptoms. Giardia, for example, might not cause diarrhea for several days. That’s why it’s important to monitor your dog for a full week after an incident and keep track of any changes in behavior or appetite.
Is Rabbit Poop More Dangerous Than Other Animal Feces?
It depends on the source and environment. Rabbit droppings are generally less risky than feces from carnivores like foxes or raccoons, which carry more aggressive parasites. Still, rabbit poop isn’t risk-free, especially if your dog makes a habit of eating it.
Should I Be Worried If It Only Happened Once?
Probably not. If your dog is healthy and symptom-free, a one-time snack isn’t likely to cause major issues. Keep an eye out for any changes over the next few days, but chances are they’ll be just fine.
Can Dogs Catch Salmonella From Rabbit Poop?
Healthy rabbits can be carriers for Salmonella bacteria, just as healthy dogs can. There is a potential risk that salmonella can be passed on via almost any mammal’s feces, and salmonella can cause long-term diarrhea in dogs.
Can Dogs Catch Giardia From Rabbit Poop?
Giardia is a protozoan parasite, meaning it is neither a bacterium nor a worm but something in the middle. Giardia is thought to be a regular part of the life in a rabbit’s gut and does not typically cause them problems. Rabbit poo would not commonly pass on Giardia, but it is possible. Giardia causes chronic gut irritation and prolonged diarrhea in dogs.
Redirecting Canine Curiosity In Safer, More Enriching Ways
The ingestion of rabbit feces, while unpleasant and occasionally risky, often stems from a dog’s innate curiosity and instinctual behaviors such as foraging and scent-tracking. Rather than suppressing these natural instincts, consider offering outlets that satisfy your dog’s curiosity and energy through appropriate, engaging activities. Tools like flirt poles can provide both mental and physical stimulation, mimicking the chase in a safe and controlled environment. Barn hunting taps directly into a dog’s prey drive, allowing them to follow scent trails and solve scent-based puzzles in a rewarding setting. Similarly, agility training offers structured movement, problem-solving, and handler engagement, all of which can redirect excess energy and build confidence.
Does your Fido have a fetish for rabbit poop? Perhaps you’ve discovered another way to keep the temptation at bay? We love to hear from our readers, so please let us know in the comments.
Why Trust Canine Journal
Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS, is a UK-based veterinarian passionate about helping pet owners understand the “why” behind their dog’s behavior and health. Whether it’s decoding unusual habits, like why dogs eat rabbit poop, or explaining how treatments work, she believes informed owners make more confident, capable caregivers. Jo is one of our featured veterinary contributors here at Canine Journal.
