Most dogs given half a chance would grab a mouthful of animal manure when out for a walk. Repulsive to us, coprophagia, as the condition is known, is perfectly normal behaviour among dogs.

There are many theories as to why a dog can become coprophagic:

It can be a symptom of medical conditions such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. It can also be a psychological condition caused by nervousness or a guilt complex instilled by an owner who was too harsh in housebreaking.

Others believe that the eating of faeces may be a way for dogs to supplement a diet lacking in minerals and vitamins.

No matter what the reason for it, the simplest way of curing a coprophagic dog is to make sure that the stool is picked up immediately or the dog’s access to it is blocked, either by putting the animal on a leash and gently pulling it away once it has cleaned itself or by luring the dog away using a tasty titbit.

And remember not to kiss that potty mouth!