Has your dog eaten dirt? Are you worried the dirt will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We know it can be scary when your dog eats something he shouldn’t.
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In this article, we’ll take a look at dirt and whether or not it can make your dog sick. Let’s get started!
Why Do Dogs Eat Dirt?
That’s a great question! No one is precisely sure why dogs eat dirt. However, some dogs may eat dirt because they have pica. Pica is a behavioral condition that makes dogs (and humans) eat non-food items.
What’s more, your dog could be eating dirt for others reasons. These can include:
- Boredom
- They enjoy the taste of dirt (yuck!)
- Anemia
- Dietary insufficiency (including lack of nutrients and being hungry—not getting enough to eat)
- Gastric upset
Can Eating Dirty Be Bad for Dogs?
Yes, eating dirt can be bad for dogs. For instance, if a dog eats enough dirt, it’s possible this could lead to an intestinal blockage. This is a life-threatening condition that can be extremely painful and even end in death if left untreated.
In addition, dirt may contain pesticides or other toxins. It can also cause choking, as well as damage to teeth, the throat, the digestive tract, or even the stomach. What’s more, dogs may even become infected with parasites from eating dirt.
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Ask a Vet Live NowWhen to Call the Vet
If your dog is eating dirt on a regular basis, then it’s time to call the vet. However, if your dog only eats dirt once in a great while, then there’s probably nothing to worry about. Just watch for changes in your dog’s eating & potty habits, as well as his activity levels.
In this case, the vet may check your dog for parasites and other medical problems.
You should also call the vet if your dog develops any symptoms of an intestinal blockage, including:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Constipation
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
If your dog has an intestinal blockage, then he needs to see the vet as soon as possible. Treatment may include an emergency abdominal surgery. This is done to remove the dirt from the dog’s intestines and repair any damage the dirt has caused.
While eating dirt can be natural for dogs, it may not be very healthy. For these reasons, it’s best to prevent your dog, if possible, from eating dirt in the first place. The sooner this habit stops, the better it will be for your dog!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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