Why do dogs eat dirt, and when should you worry?

When you research or talk to other pet parents about your dog eating dirt, two disorders will probably come up — pica and geophagia. It’s important to understand the meaning of both.

Pica is a disorder where a dog eats non-food items such as rocks, grass, or dirt. If a dog is only compulsively consuming dirt or soil, it’s known as geophagia. Both of these disorders can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, behavioral issues, or medical conditions. 

👉  If this behavior is new or unusual for your dog, it’s important to consult with your vet immediately. 

Important to establish whether your dog’s dirt-eating is behavioral or being caused by an underlying medical condition. 

Behavioral causes

• Boredom. Dogs that aren’t getting enough exercise may eat dirt simply because they’re bored, just like they might tear up furniture indoors. 
• Stress. Dogs that experience stress or separation anxiety react in many different ways; one common stress response is eating things like dirt. 
• Curiosity. This is most often the case with puppies. Just like babies, young puppies are intrigued by many things. Getting a little taste of dirt is one of the quickest ways for a puppy to figure out what it is. Sometimes, there might be something in the dirt that smells good and your dog simply wants to check it out. 

Medical conditions

• Anemia. Low red blood cell counts lead animals to seek out nutrients in any way they can, including consuming dirt.
• Diet issues. If your pup is lacking in key vitamins and nutrients, they may instinctively seek those nutrients out by eating dirt. Because soil contains calcium, iron, and other necessary minerals, it’s one of the easiest ways for dogs to get these minerals when they lack a balanced diet.
• Stomach trouble. Bacteria, viruses, or toxins in your pup’s gut may cause them to eat dirt. Your dog might be feeling sick and eating dirt is an instinctive response to help induce vomiting. 

Eating dirt isn’t healthy for your pup. Not only can dirt cause potential internal blockages, your dog could accidentally digest something hiding in the dirt or lawn, such as: 

• Intestinal parasites. Hookworms, roundworms, or whipworms.

👉  Make sure your pup is up-to-date on their heartworm and intestinal parasite medications to prevent sickness from parasites in the dirt. 

• Rocks and twigs. These can cause intestinal and throat blockages that may require surgery.
• Fertilizer. Most fertilizers are toxic to dogs, be sure to keep your dog off your lawn until it’s safe.  
• Pesticides. Many pesticides are poisonous to both dogs and the environment. Here’s a list of low-risk bug sprays to consider using.

If your dog eats dirt once or twice, there’s usually no cause for concern. However, if you notice your pup is frequently consuming large amounts of soil, it’s important to take them to the vet. The following are signs that you need to schedule an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian:

• If your dog is eating dirt frequently (more than once or twice)
• If they aren’t eating their food 
• If they’re having irregular bowel movements 
• They become lethargic or inactive
• If they have pale gums (this is commonly seen with anemia)

Your vet will examine your pet and run tests if necessary to find and rule out all of the potential causes. They may also check your dog for any internal injuries or blockages that may have occurred from eating dirt. 

👉  Pay attention to how often and how much dirt your dog is eating. This will help your vet determine if there’s an underlying health issue.

How can I tell if my dog has pica disorder?

If you observe your dog compulsively eating other objects besides dirt, pica disorder is a likely cause. Look out for other signs of pica including vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of energy.

👉  If you observe any of these symptoms or suspect your dog has pica or geophagia, schedule an appointment with your vet. 

When should I stop my dog from eating dirt? 

Whether your curious puppy is exploring their new environment or your dog is simply bored, it’s important to discourage them from eating dirt. If you’re unable to get them to stop eating dirt, it’s important to take them to the vet for a visit. Professional trainers can also help you train your pup not to consume dirt if it’s ruled as a behavioral issue.