Reasons Why Dogs Eat Rocks
Dogs have great appetites and these animals have the inclination to eat questionable (at least to us humans) things. Dog experts call this habit of ingesting non-edible things as pica. Eating non-edible items is a normal behavior of dogs but dog owners would still be puzzled by this behavior more so if the pet is provided with enough food. Most dogs would love to gnaw and eat rocks.
Rock chewing is more common in puppies. Puppies are naturally inquisitive and one way of discovering their world is by using their mouth. A pet parent will be amused by the pet’s chewing as if what is being chewed is bubble gum. The habit of eating rocks can endanger the life of the pet. Because rocks are hard, the teeth as well as the soft tissues inside the mouth can be damaged. The delicate digestive tract of the dog is not built to digest the hard rock thus ingestion can result to diarrhea. A blockage in the throat or on the intestinal tract that can be created if a large piece of rock is swallowed can be the cause of death of the pet.
Dogs are really good eaters. We also know that man’s best friends can develop hazardous and socially unacceptable behaviors. Nevertheless we would still be puzzled why dogs eat rocks. A brain disease can be one of the reasons why the dog eats rocks. However if medical conditions are ruled out, a dog owner has to think about behavioral concerns.
The dog’s propensity to eat rocks can be caused by boredom, anxiety or stress. Dogs would always love to get the attention of the family because these are social animals. Dogs that do not get any attention from the family will be bored. Bored dogs will develop destructive behaviors. Eating rocks is a manifestation that the dog is bored. The habit of eating rocks can be the dog’s way of attracting the master’s attention.
Various lab tests would be necessary to know the health concerns of humans. Dogs don’t need any of these test as these animals can recognize what is wrong with their system. Rock eating can be the dog’s way of correcting an undiagnosed nutrient deficiency. The rock eating habit can be a wake up call for the dog owner not only to provide the dog with premium quality dog food but also to make time to bond with the dog.
Learn more about why dogs eat rocks and other interesting dog behaviours.
