Our dogs do all sorts of atypical things … some are even quite dangerous. Live with an adolescent dog, or any breed that has pent up power, and you will in all likelihood revel in extreme heart pounding as your canine attempts to chase now not-so-cuddly critters, jumps off unsecure pieces of furnishings, or (of course) tries to scarf down bizarre things that aren’t considered food. They definitely want to keep us on our feet!”Is Your Dog a Rock Hound? 9 Dangerous Reasons Behind This Odd Habit”
Sometimes, the things dogs devour (even when we don’t need them to) are not the cause of the situation. And other instances, well, they’ll require a ride to the emergency vet (you failed to need to keep that stimulus check, did you?). If your canine is consuming rocks, that happens to be one of these matters that needs immediate attention. We look at four reasons why your dog might decide to sample them and what you can do about it.
What Does It Mean When Your Dog Eats Rocks?
Canines are connoisseurs of weird things to eat. Whether it’s dust, socks, undergarments, or yes, rocks, our dogs find methods to consume matters that at first glance make us gag and at worst make us call the emergency vet. Puppies may chunk, chew, and even swallow random objects accidentally while they’re investigating their curious global. Adult puppies may additionally find rocks an appetizing treat or thrilling hobby for loads of motives—consisting of they just like their taste and texture, boredom, behavioral troubles and disorders, or an underlying medical problem.
9 Reasons Your Dog Is Eating Rocks
It’s common for puppies to lick or mouth non-food objects, including rocks, pebbles, and stones. Rock consuming is a particularly commonplace behavior for puppies, who use their mouths to learn about the environment around them.
Dogs consume rocks for a few distinct motives, including boredom, tension, teething, and clinical issues, in step with Dr. Nell Ostermeier, veterinary consultant to OnePack Plan by way of PetPartners.
Nibbling some rocks isn’t always an emergency, however, Dr. Ostermeier says rock eating can result in fitness issues, so you’ll want to discourage this conduct.
Read on to learn the motives why puppies would possibly devour rocks, plus get expert recommendations on addressing and preventing rock ingesting.
Why Dogs Eat Rocks
Dogs eat things like rocks and dirt for many reasons, including natural curiosity, health concerns, and behavior-related issues.
Curiosity
Dogs are evidently curious animals who discover their surroundings the using their mouths. Rocks could make interesting items for puppies to chew on, specifically ones that have lingering meal remnants or scents from other animals!
A curious canine exploring a brand new rock may also have:
- A targeted expression
- Perked ears
- Forward-leaning posture
- A tilted head
Boredom
When puppies are bored or have extra energy, they may begin chewing on non-food objects like rocks for leisure, in keeping with Qiai Chong, Chief Behaviourist at Pet Coach SG.
Other signs and symptoms that would indicate boredom in puppies include:
- Destructive behavior
- Increased vocalizations
- Hyperactivity
- Escape attempts
- Paw-chewing or licking
Attention-seeking behavior
Chong says a few dogs devour rocks because they’ve found out this behavior receives them attention from their puppy dad and mom.
For dogs who lack the attention they want, a negative response is as accurate as an effective one, so even a destructive response can inspire them to repeat the conduct.
Other signs your canine wishes attention include:
- Barking and whining
- Pawing
- Jumping up
- Mouthing
- Following you everywhere
Anxiety and stress
Eating rocks can also be a signal of anxiety in puppies.
According to 1 take a look at, disturbing puppies were far more likely to have %, a compulsive urge to consume non-meals objects. If your canine has separation anxiety or tends to get very frightened, they may nibble on rocks to address their emotions.
Other signs that might suggest anxiety in dogs include:
- Destructive conduct
- Hiding
- Tail tucking
- Drooped or flattened ears
- “Whale eye”
- Shaking and trembling
- Licking the air
- Yawning
- Panting
- Drooling
- Frequent vocalizations like whining and howling
Teething
Some dogs will chew on rocks to ease pain throughout the teething process, in keeping with Dr. Shelby Baden, emergency veterinarian at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) South Tampa.
Rock chewing may also relieve stress, soothe aching gums, and create a distraction from soreness.
Other signs you would possibly note during teething include:
- Increased chewing behaviors
- Swollen, bleeding gums
- Whining or whimpering
- Pawing on the mouth
Nutritional deficiencies
Dogs who lack essential nutrients may also be looking for them in non-food objects, Dr. Baden says.
This is hardly ever a trouble for puppies who devour a whole and balanced eating regimen that meets Association of American Feed Control Offices (AAFCO) requirements for pet nutrients.
However, certain medical conditions, like intestinal parasites and stomach ulcers, can prevent your dog from getting the nutrients they need.
Other symptoms of nutritional deficiencies include:
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Dull coat
- Excessive shedding
Health issues
Sometimes, puppies with an undiagnosed medical situation may eat rocks. Examples of those conditions include:
Diabetes: Dogs with diabetes may also have excessive starvation and nutrient deficiencies, so they could eat inedible objects like rocks. You can also note your canine ingesting extra water and peeing more than usual.
Intestinal parasites or worms: Dogs with worms or different parasites won’t get all of the nutrients they need and can come to be consuming non-food objects as a result.
Iron deficiency anemia: This condition typically develops due to chronic blood loss, which can occur with a bleeding tumor or damaged blood vessels.
Hyperthyroidism: Dogs with hyperthyroidism might also experience immoderate hunger, which can lead them to search for additional things to eat, like rocks and dirt.
Compulsive disorders
Rock eating can also show up with a compulsive ailment. These conditions can show up in distinctive ways; however, in some cases, puppies can also obsessively chunk and consume precise objects.
A compulsive behavior will generally be:
- Out of context
- Repetitive
- Exaggerated
- Relentless
Pica
Pica causes a compulsive urge to devour non-food objects, and puppies with this situation might also devour rocks and dirt.
It’s a complex disorder, Chong says, and the factors driving the behavior will vary from canine to canine.
Pica may be a symptom of an underlying medical issue, like dietary deficiencies, or a behavioral trouble, like tension or boredom. One look determined that this condition most usually showed up in younger and neutered dogs.
Does Rock Eating Have Any Risks For Dogs?
While occasional rock exploration and chewing might not always harm your dog, this behavior can be dangerous in some cases, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Some risks associated with eating rocks include:
Intestinal blockage: This is a critical circumstance that stops meals and fluids from passing through the digestive system, Chong says. Removing the rocks may require surgery.
Choking: If a rock becomes lodged inside the throat, it could hinder a dog’s airway. Smaller dogs are at greater risk of choking.
Dental problems: Chomping on tough rocks can result in fractured teeth, scraped gums, and mouth sensitivity.
Internal accidents: A rock’s sharp edges can irritate or harm the GI tract, Dr. Ostermeier explains. This might also cause internal bleeding and contamination.
Toxicity: Dr. Baden adds that some rocks may comprise harmful toxic additives.
If you’ve watched your canine has swallowed a rock, our specialists say it’s fine to err on the side of caution and have your vet evaluate them. An X-ray can help decide if your canine has swallowed a rock, and your vet can monitor their condition and advocate for treatment as needed.
Additionally, Chong advises in search of immediate veterinary care in case you be aware:
- Persistent vomiting
- Lethargy or a weak spot
- Loss of the urge for food
- Difficulty respiration
How To Keep Your Dog From Eating Rocks
You can do a lot to discourage your dog from eating stones. The solution that is right for your dog will depend on why they eat stones to start.
Here are some practical strategies to dampen mountain eating.
Limit access to rocks
You can save your dog from eating rocks by dealing with their surroundings. Chong recommends keeping off areas with free rocks or other non-digestible materials. Dr. Ostermeier provides that once in a while, you may want to dam off a segment of your backyard.
While you’re working on training, consider the usage of a puppy playpen for secure outdoor time.
Supervise outdoor time
Chong shows keeping a close eye on puppies at some stage in walks or playtime so you can fast intervene in the event that they spot a tempting rock. This is critical for puppies of every age, from dogs to seniors.
If you note your dog seeking out rocks, Dr. Baden suggests redirecting their attention towards appropriate toys or chews.
Teach “leave it” and “drop it” cues
If your canine shows interest in non-digestible gadgets, our experts suggest operating on two simple cues:
Leave it: This cue can assist if your pup is nosing around a rock pile.
Drop it: This cue comes in handy in case your pup already has a mouthful of rocks.
Minimize stress
Stress can lead dogs to look for consolation in harmful items, inclusive of rocks. If your canine is susceptible to anxiety, creating a stable and predictable environment can make a difference.
Chong recommends avoiding exposing dogs to extended stressors like loud noises.
Anxious puppies can also gain from:
- Exercise
- Lick mats
- Calming treats
- Cozy bedding
Encourage exercise
Making sure your dog receives a sufficient workout at some point in the day can help keep them stimulated and content.
“A worn-out dog is less possibly to be seeking out rocks,” Dr. Baden says.
Provide extra enrichment and chew alternatives
All puppies need bodily and mental stimulation. According to 1 have a look at, adding enrichment sports to a dog’s routine significantly reduced strain behaviors like rock eating.
Giving your canine plenty of chew toys and long-lasting chews can also help keep them from eating undesirable objects.
Prioritize bonding time
If your dog is ingesting rocks to get your attention, spending time with them could make a difference. Aim to commit time to bond with your canine every day through shared sports like hiking, swimming, or playing together.
Feed your dog a complete and balanced diet
Dogs who have all their dietary wishes met may be much less in all likelihood to eat rocks and other forbidden snacks.
Learn more about feeding your dog a complete and balanced diet
You can ensure your dog is getting a whole eating regimen by feeding them a nutritionally balanced dog food that meets AAFCO requirements for his or her life stage. If you make self-made canine meals, it’s critical to do so handiest with supervision from a certified veterinary nutritionist.
Consider a temporary muzzle
Chong indicates the usage of a muzzle on walks for continual rock eaters. This can be a very useful short-term device in the training system.
For excellent consequences, select a properly-fitting muzzle and progressively acclimate your dog to carrying it. Always supervise your canine while they’re wearing a muzzle, and make sure they are able to still drink, pant, and be given treats with it on!
When To Get Professional Support
If your canine keeps to devour rocks, Dr. Ostermeier says step one is to seek advice from your vet to rule out any underlying scientific or nutritional concerns.
Once your vet rules out any medical causes, you can focus on addressing behavior troubles that might lead to rock eating.
If your dog’s rock-eating behavior seems to be compulsive or keeps after training, Chong advises running with a licensed behaviorist or teacher. A qualified professional can advise the right training techniques for your domestic dog.
Conclusion
It’s no secret that dogs sometimes engage in strange and even dangerous behaviors, like eating rocks. While this habit might stem from natural curiosity, boredom, anxiety, or even an underlying health issue, it’s a serious concern that can lead to choking, intestinal blockages, or emergency vet visits.
The good news is that there are ways to address it. Start by supervising outdoor play and removing accessible rocks, teaching a strong “Leave It” command, and providing plenty of chew toys and mental stimulation to keep your dog occupied. If the behavior continues, a vet visit is crucial to rule out medical causes like nutritional deficiencies or compulsive disorders.
With patience and proactive measures, you can help your pup kick this risky habit and stay safe. And hey, if your dog has ever eaten something bizarre, you’re not alone—many pet parents have been there! The key is staying vigilant and addressing the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
