Why Does My Dog Eat Things He Shouldn’t? Unraveling Those Baffling Behaviors
As pet parents, we adore our furry companions, but sometimes their actions leave us scratching our heads. If you’ve ever caught your canine pal munching on grass, shredded paper, or even, ahem, something less savory, you’re not alone. It’s certainly a common dilemma for dog owners: “Why does my dog eat things he shouldn’t?”
While it can be alarming (and let’s be honest, a little gross!), these unusual eating habits often have a logical explanation. Let’s dig into the common reasons your beloved pup might be ingesting non-food items, and what you can do about it.
1. Instinctive Behavior: A Nod to Their Wild Ancestry
Some of these peculiar patterns can be traced back to your dog’s ancestral instincts. For instance, eating grass is incredibly common. Some dogs might do it to settle an upset stomach, while others simply enjoy the taste or texture. Think of their wild relatives, who often supplemented their diets with various plants. It’s simply in their nature!
Similarly, why do dogs eat feces – a behavior known as coprophagia? While unpleasant to us, this can also be an echo of their past. Mother dogs naturally ingest their puppies’ waste to keep the den clean, a crucial survival instinct. Some adult dogs, unfortunately, carry this habit into adulthood.
2. Nutritional Imbalances: Is Your Dog’s Diet Lacking?
Sometimes, when your dog eats things he shouldn’t, it could signal a deeper issue, like a nutritional deficiency. If your dog is munching on non-food items like paper, plastic, or even dirt, their current diet might not be meeting all their needs. They might be instinctively searching for missing nutrients, even if the “source” is entirely unsuitable.
In cases of coprophagia, a dog eating its own stool might be doing so because of inefficient digestion. If food passes through their system too quickly or isn’t properly absorbed, their stools can still contain undigested nutrients, making them oddly “appetizing” to your pup.
Expert Tip: If you notice your dog frequently ingesting unusual objects, a visit to your veterinarian is crucial. They can help evaluate your pup’s diet and rule out any health concerns.
