Some dogs will eat anything from grass and your favorite accessories to roadkill and even feces. If your dog eats things it shouldn't, you may have reason to be concerned. In this post, our Bonita Springs vets discuss why some dogs have a less discriminating palate than others and what you can do about it.
Why won't my dog stop eating?
You are not alone if you've got a dog who eats everything. While many pup parents find this behavior repulsive, it is a normal scavenging behavior in our canine friends. Puppies especially seem to enjoy eating things they come across, like stones, trash, leaves, and dead animals.
What Dogs Eat & Why
The term used to describe both humans and animals who eat non-edible items is pica. Dogs with pica have an almost compulsive desire to eat indigestible objects like dirt, sticks, and rocks. It's thought that animals with pica may not get enough essential minerals or other nutrients in their diet. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog's urge to eat inedible objects is a sign of pica.
Here are some of the most common substances dogs love to eat:
Dirt
It's quite common for puppies to eat dirt. Although it's not known why they do this, it's widely assumed that it is at least partly due to the various scents emitted by dirt in different areas, like a forest floor, field, or the pile of mulch in your yard. Eating dirt may improve puppies' understanding of their surrounding environment. If your dog develops a strange taste for dirt, there is probably nothing to worry about.
However, eating a lot of dirt can be dangerous because it can obstruct your dog's digestive tract. If your dog enjoys eating dirt, ask your vet what may be causing this behavior and what you can do to stop it.
Grass
Dogs will often nibble on grass, but some dogs prefer it more than others. Eating grass is generally considered safe as long as it is not heavily coated in pesticides or other chemicals and your dog is otherwise healthy.
Your pooch may eat grass for a variety of reasons, including to add fiber to their diet. They may also be attempting to reduce boredom, or simply enjoy the taste of it. If your dog is eating an unusually large amount of grass, talk to your vet about how to curb their appetite.
Rocks
While many dogs enjoy playing with and eating rocks, this can be hazardous to their health. Chewing rocks can cause damage to your pooch's teeth and gums, and choking is another risk. If your puppy is teething, try providing him with lots of fun chew toys.
If your adult dog is obsessed with eating rocks, take him to the veterinarian, as munching on rocks may point to anxiety, boredom, or a desire for attention. Your vet will be able to help you determine what's causing your dog's behavior and recommend ways to reduce your dog's desire to eat stones.
Poop
Many pup parents are disgusted and frustrated to find that their dog eats poop. They often end up calling us to exclaim, "Help – my dog eats everything off the ground, including poop!"
Poop eating is so common among dogs that it's referred to as coprophagia. This behavior may be caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, and behavioral factors.
Dogs are generally considered safe to eat their poop; however, eating the poop of other dogs or animals is a cause for concern because parasites, viruses, and toxins can be transmitted through feces.
According to one theory, poop eating is part of your dog's innate scavenging tendencies, which evolved as a survival tool for times when food is scarce. After all, a dog can't afford to be picky when there's no food to be found.
Some physical reasons that dogs may eat poop include:
- Parasites
- Diets deficient in nutrients and calories
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Diabetes
- Cushing’s disease
- Thyroid disease, and other conditions that can cause increased appetite
- Steroids and other medications
Other factors that can lead to poop eating in dogs:
- Isolation and boredom
- Restrictive confinement
- Anxiety
- Attention-seeking
- Inappropriate association with real food
What are some signs my dog has overeaten?
Some signs that your dog has overeaten include vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and lethargy. Monitoring their food intake and seeking emergency veterinary care if you notice any concerning symptoms is important.
Ways to Curb Your Dog's Unusual Eating Habits
Regardless of what your pooch enjoys munching on, there are a few things you can do to try and curb the habit:
- Clean your backyard frequently to remove any rocks, poops, or other items. If it isn't there, your pup can't eat it.
- Teach your dog to 'drop it' and 'leave it' on command. Essential know-how for every dog.
- Increase your pup's exercise and enrichment throughout the day. A tired and busy dog is less likely to nibble on things they shouldn't.
- Take your dog to the vet for a full examination to look for signs of illness or to discuss solutions to behavioral issues such as anxiety.
Your veterinarian can check your dog from head to tail for signs of illness, discuss the causes of your dog's unusual eating habits, and advise you on your pet's nutritional and caloric needs based on size and breed.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.