Often, the items that are being eaten are wildly inappropriate things that offer nothing in the way of nutrition, like wood, towels, or even plastic. What is more, a research in Japan specifies that pica is the third most commonly reported behavioral problem in canines after barking at noises and unfamiliar visitors. When adolescent and adult dogs continue to eat items that are not food, it can be very frustrating for owners and potentially dangerous for the dog. While pica-like behavior is typical in puppies learning what is and what isn't food, most pups will grow out of this. Sure, dogs often eat grass, but pica is something a lot more serious. Pica in dogs is a condition where they crave and compulsively eat items that are not typically edible or considered food. Chewing and swallowing non-food items is not and should be cause for concern. Chewing non-food items is relatively normal for dogs. When it comes down to it, there's a huge difference between dogs chewing on items and craving and consuming them. But what do you do if you find your dog actually eating items that aren't food? It's common for pups (and grown dogs too) to chew on all sorts of things in the absence of appropriate chewing toys. You might have also wondered, "Why is my dog eating dirt?" and "What to do when my dog eats anything?" If you've owned a mischievous puppy, you've probably lost a few shoes, maybe a rug, or your garden may have been totally chewed up. Ask your vet for more information.ĭo you have more questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your animal clinic, today.Dogs have a well-earned reputation for chomping down on some rather strange things. Make sure Fido has suitable playtime and toys, and spend lots of quality time with him. It’s also important to realize that sometimes dogs engage in pica due to mental or emotional issues, such as stress, fear, or loneliness. Your vet may recommend putting Fido on medication, supplements or changing Fido’s diet. Thyroid issues, diabetes, and malnutrition are a few possibilities. It’s important to determine if your pooch has health problems or nutritional issues. Having Fido examined by a vet is the first course of action in pups with pica. Call your vet immediately if you suspect or know your dog has eaten something he shouldn’t have. However, some cases may become life-threatening, requiring surgical intervention.
In some cases, dogs’ ‘snacks’ will pass out the usual way. Others, such as batteries, are highly toxic. Some can cause intestinal damage, blockages, or choking. As one can imagine, these things are definitely not safe for your furry friend. Man’s Best Friend has also eaten rocks, nails, toyes, screws, batteries, watches, and, of course, homework, to name just a few.
Underwear and socks are two common items. Our canine friends have been known to eat all sorts of things. Unfortunately, though, pica isn’t limited to grass. If Fido snacks on your lawn, it isn’t usually going to be an emergency. Your furry pal could also pick up parasites. Plus, a lawn treated with pesticides or chemicals is definitely not safe for your pooch to eat. While most grass isn’t dangerous in and of itself, many plants are. Fido may be trying to get relief from an upset stomach, or he may be trying to compensate for a nutritional imbalance, which may have manifested as a craving. There are several possible reasons for this. A local vet provides some information on it below.Įating grass is one of the most common forms of pica. The whats, whens, and whys of pica in dogs can vary widely. There is actually a specific name for this behavior: pica. Have you ever come home to find that your canine pal has chewed up your sofa, or eaten your shoes? This may extend beyond Fido’s natural need to chew.