Why won't my dog stop eating?
If your dog eats everything, know that you are not alone. While many pet parents find this behavior repulsive, it is a typical scavenging behavior in our canine companions. Puppies enjoy eating anything they come across, including leaves, trash, stones, and dead animals.
What Dogs Eat & Why
Pica refers to the consumption of non-edible items by both humans and animals. Pica dogs have an almost compulsive desire to consume indigestible objects like rocks, dirt, and sticks. It is believed that animals with pica may be deficient in essential minerals or other nutrients. If you suspect that your dog's desire to eat inedible objects is indicative of PICA, consult your veterinarian.
Below are some of the most common substances that our four-legged friend loves to eat:
Grass
Dogs will frequently nibble on grass, though some dogs prefer it more than others. Eating grass is generally considered safe as long as it is not heavily coated in chemicals and your dog is otherwise healthy.
Dogs eat grass for a variety of reasons, including adding fiber to their digestive tract, reducing boredom, and simply enjoying it. If your dog is eating an unusually large amount of grass, speak with your veterinarian about how to stop it.
Dirt
Puppy dirt eating is a common occurrence. It is unclear why dogs prefer to eat dirt, but it is widely assumed that it is due in part to the various scents emitted by different areas, such as a field, forest floor, or your mulch pile. Eating dirt may help puppies understand their surroundings. If your dog develops an unusual taste of dirt, there is probably nothing to be concerned about.
However, eating a lot of dirt can be dangerous because it can clog your dog's digestive tract. If your dog enjoys eating dirt, talk to your vet about what's causing the behavior and what you can do to stop it.
Rocks
Many dogs enjoy playing with and eating rocks, which can be dangerous to their health. Chewing rocks can cause tooth and gum damage, and choking is a serious hazard. If your puppy is teething, try providing him with a variety of fun chew toys.
If your adult dog is obsessed with eating rocks, bring him to the vet. Rock eating could be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or a desire for attention. Your veterinarian will be able to assist you in determining the cause of your dog's behavior and recommending strategies to reduce your dog's desire for stones.
Poop
Pet owners frequently contact us when they are at their wits end with their dog's disgusting poop eating behavior. Why does my dog keep eating poop?! Poop eating is so common that it is referred to as 'coprophagia' (kop-ruh-fey-jee-uh), and it may be caused by a combination of behavioral, genetic, and psychological factors.
Dogs' poop is generally considered safe to consume; however, eating the poop of other dogs or animals is 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
- 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. It is important to monitor their food intake and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.
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.
When to Bring Your Dog to the Vet
A dog's strange eating habits may not be a concern if they are occasional and do not result in any negative health effects.
If your dog is constantly eating non-food items such as the ones listed above, it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue, such as nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal problems, or behavioral issues. In these cases, it is important to bring your dog to the vet for a thorough examination to determine the cause of their unusual eating habits.
Additionally, if your dog's strange eating habits are accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate a more serious health issue that requires prompt treatment in order to prevent further complications. Remember that early intervention and proper diagnosis are key in ensuring the health and well-being of your furry friend.
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.