Over the years I've had clients come to me frustrated as a result of their dog trying to eat everything in sight. From socks to rocks, poop to random sticks, some dogs just seem to have an insatiable appetite for gross and often dangerous items. Let’s discuss why some dogs eat everything in sight, what could be behind it and when to reach out for help.
Early Habits and Micromanaging
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, much like toddlers touch and taste everything in sight. This is totally normal behaviour as they’re figuring out what’s safe, what’s interesting, and what just isn’t worth putting in their mouths. However, when we micromanage this exploration—constantly telling them “No!” or "Leave It!", rushing over every time they pick something up—this attention can actually increase their curiosity.
In a way, all that added focus around "forbidden objects" might even build value for those objects in a dog's mind. It’s a classic case of “what’s forbidden is fascinating.” So, if your dog picked up your sock as a puppy and got an immediate reaction, they may have learned that doing so gets them some sort of attention or interaction, and the behaviour sticks around.
I recommend being VERY selective where you focus giving attention when your dog explores items with their mouth. If the items are safe if they were to ingest them (grass, leaves, small quantities of dirt) then ignore it. If you KNOW your dog isn't at risk for swallowing items like socks or things they may grab in the house, ignore it. And make sure you are much more cognizant about putting items up and away.
Note that your dog may be bored and or seeking something to chew on which is a natural dog behaviour. Find something to give them that is safe and satisfying!
Anxiety-Driven Eating
Anxiety can also be a big contributor to dogs eating non-food items. When a dog feels nervous, eating something (even if it’s not edible) may be a way of self-soothing or seeking a distraction. Dogs with separation anxiety, for example, might chew up household items or ingest objects when they’re stressed and left alone. Or, if your dog tends to eat things during times of loud noises (like thunderstorms) or sudden changes, anxiety may be at play.
In these cases, they’re not actually hungry for socks or plastic—they’re looking for comfort, and it just so happens that eating or chewing provides that temporary relief. It’s sort of like how we might reach for comfort food when we’re feeling down. The anxiety MUST be treated before these behaviours are reduced. This means reaching out for help.
What Is Pica?
Pica is a medical condition where dogs (and humans!) have the urge to eat non-food items. In dogs, pica can mean anything from chomping down on rocks to ingesting paper or dirt. This condition often points to something deeper going on, like nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal issues, or even certain neurological conditions. This is a MEDICAL CONDITION and I highly recommend you discuss with your vet or a veterinary behaviourist!
Your veterinarian can help rule out any underlying medical issues and provide you with guidance on how to safely redirect your dog's behaviour.
Dogs That Eat Poop
Ah, the classic “my dog eats poop” problem. Many dog owners cringe at the thought, but eating poop (also known as coprophagia) is quite common. Dogs might eat poop for several reasons: they could be copying their mother’s behaviour (as mother dogs clean up after their puppies this way), they could be looking for nutrients, or sometimes they’re just curious and want to investigate that scent a little closer than we’d like.
In some cases once a dog has ingested poop, they may decide it tastes good! Gross, however they are animals. Now, every time they have free access to poop and ingest it, the behaviour is reinforced. You must do everything you can to PREVENT access in order to change the behaviour.
This could look like:
Making sure ALL yard poop is picked up immediately after your dog goes
On leashed walks being very diligent about preventing your dog from picking up poop in grass areas by making sure you have high value treats to redirect your dog to
If you aren't already, work more with your dog on engagement on walks which results in HIGH VALUE rewards. Be generous. The hungrier your dog is the more likely they will seek out poop if you aren't providing anything good!
Off leash; this is the hard part! If they are off leash it's very likely your dog will engage in poop eating. If you are being diligent about the above points you will want to restrict off leash for a period of time until you can get a handle on the behaviour (not a popular answer but it is the truth)
Ideas To Offset Boredom
One thing to consider is whether or not your dog's "needs are being met". What this means is that dogs are natural foragers, diggers, chewers and shredders. They often want, and need, access to items that are safe for them to engage in.
Some things to consider that may help:
Provide daily food dispensing items with a variety of foods such as stuffed Kongs, Toppls or treat balls to engage their mind and tummy. Boredom can result in dogs seeking out items to chew that you've given lots of attention to in the past!
Your dog may need more variety in their diet! Integrating safe and healthy foods into their day may offset their desire to seek out other things that are NOT safe!
It's Fair Game If Your Dog Can Access It!
Dogs are animals, they don't have a moral compass that tells them they "shouldn't" eat the garbage in the bathroom or knock over the trash and indulge!
Keep kids bedroom doors closed if your dog steals their stuff
Be diligent about keeping things your dog loves to chew or eat out of reach
Close bathroom doors
Put trash cans in cabinets and out of reach
Don't get upset if your dog gets into something you left out! :)
When Should You Reach Out for Help?
If your dog’s eating habits are causing health concerns or putting them at risk, it’s time to reach out for help. Signs it might be time to consult a professional include:
Frequent or compulsive ingestion of dangerous items (rocks, plastic, metal, etc.)
Consistent coprophagia that doesn’t seem to improve with basic redirection
Signs of anxiety or stress associated with their eating habits
Frequent digestive upset or vomiting after eating non-food items
A vet can help identify if there’s a medical reason behind the behaviour, while a behaviour consultant can provide guidance on how to manage or redirect it.
Just Know...
If it feels like your dog wants to eat everything no matter what you do and you are at a loss, you aren't alone. Just remember, many of these behaviours are manageable with the right approach and a bit of professional support. This means we are peeling back layers and investigating the "why" so we can help your dog!
Curiosity, boredom, anxiety and medical issues can all play a role in why our dogs eat the things they do. Get in touch if you need help!