Dogs sometimes dig into the yard and munch on soil. This habit worries many owners. It can point to simple issues or something more serious. In this guide, we cover the main reasons behind it. We also share steps to help your dog and when to call a vet.
Main Reasons Dogs Eat Dirt
Your dog might turn to dirt for a few key causes. These fall into three groups: diet needs, health problems, and daily habits.
Diet Shortfalls
Dogs need certain minerals to stay healthy. If their food lacks iron, calcium, or sodium, they may seek these from soil. This happens more with low-quality kibble or if a dog skips meals. Puppies and seniors face higher risks. A quick diet switch can fix this in many cases.
- Check your dog’s food label for complete nutrition.
- Add vet-approved supplements if needed.
For more on safe eating, see our post on what fruits can dogs eat.
Health Issues
Underlying conditions often drive this behavior. Anemia from blood loss makes dogs crave non-food items. Parasites like hookworms steal nutrients and lead to dirt eating. Stomach upset or blockages in the gut can also play a role. This form of pica, called geophagia, signals a need for medical checks.
- Watch for signs like pale gums or weight loss.
- Run a fecal test to spot worms early.
Use our pet symptom checker to track changes in your dog’s habits.
Everyday Behaviors
Boredom tops the list here. Dogs with little playtime sniff and eat whatever they find. Stress from alone time or new changes sparks the same. Puppies explore with their mouths, so a bite of dirt seems normal to them. Once it starts, it can become a routine.
- Increase walks to two a day.
- Offer puzzle toys filled with treats.
Link to our guide on common dog owner mistakes for tips on keeping pups busy.
Risks of Dogs Eating Dirt
Dirt is not a safe snack. It carries hidden dangers that harm your dog’s body.
First, parasites hide in soil. Roundworms, tapeworms, and giardia pass through feces and infect dogs. These lead to diarrhea, weakness, or worse.
Second, yard chemicals like fertilizers or pesticides stick to dirt. Even small amounts cause vomiting or organ strain.
Third, clumps of soil block the intestines. This needs surgery in bad cases. Sharp bits like rocks chip teeth or cut the gut.
Last, constant eating wears down the stomach lining. It brings inflammation and poor nutrient uptake.
Keep yards free of toxins. Test soil if you garden. For pain relief ideas, read what can I give my dog for pain.
How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Dirt
You can curb this habit with steady steps. Start with a vet visit to rule out big problems.
Feed a balanced meal from trusted brands. Look for AAFCO labels that meet full needs. Switch slowly over a week to avoid tummy trouble.
Boost activity. Long walks tire them out and cut boredom. Train “leave it” with treats as rewards. Use a leash on outings to watch closely.
Block dirt spots. Fence off garden beds or cover bare soil with mulch. Indoor time helps too.
If anxiety seems the cause, try calming aids from your vet. Track progress with our pet age calculator to match energy levels right.
For breed-specific advice, take our pet breed finder quiz.
When to See a Vet for Dirt Eating
Not all dirt nibbles need worry. A rare taste from curiosity is fine. But call your vet if it happens often, like daily or in big amounts.
Look for red flags: vomiting, loose stools, less energy, or sudden start. These point to anemia, worms, or gut woes.
Your vet may do blood tests, stool checks, or x-rays. Early care prevents worse issues. For flu-like symptoms that overlap, see can dogs get flu.
Answers to Common Questions About Dogs Eating Dirt
People often ask these when searching.
Is It Bad for Dogs to Eat Dirt?
Yes, most times. It risks illness from germs or blocks. A one-off is low risk, but habits build trouble.
Why Does My Dog Eat Grass and Dirt?
Grass soothes upset stomachs. Dirt pairs with it for minerals or boredom. Check both with a vet.
Can Dogs Get Sick from Eating Dirt?
They can. Parasites cause weight loss. Toxins lead to poisoning. Blocks need urgent fix.
How Do I Stop My Dog from Eating Dirt and Plants?
Train redirects. Use bitter sprays on spots. More play cuts the urge. Vet rules out needs first.
Related: Why do dogs eat dirt at night? Often from less supervision then. Keep evenings active.
For food checks, try our pet food safety checker.
This covers the basics. Act soon to keep your dog healthy. Share your story in comments.