As a devoted dog owner, ensuring the safety and health of your furry friend is a top priority. One aspect that often gets overlooked is what we allow our dogs to chew on. It might seem harmless to let them gnaw on a stick from the yard or a random object they find during a walk, but these common items can be harmful and even dangerous. In this article, we’ll explore why I never let my dog chew on sticks, list 10 other items dogs should avoid, and discuss the signs and treatment of gum disease.
Never Let Your Dog Chew Sticks
Chewing sticks may seem like a natural and harmless activity for dogs, but it can pose several risks. Understanding these dangers is crucial, especially if your dog is already prone to chewing on sticks.
The Dangers of Chewing Sticks
Splinters and Injuries: The most immediate danger is the splintering of wood. Sticks can break into sharp pieces that can cut or puncture a dog’s mouth, throat, or gastrointestinal tract.
Choking Hazard: Larger pieces of stick can pose a choking risk, especially for enthusiastic chewers or smaller dogs.
Intestinal Blockages: Ingested pieces of wood can become lodged in the intestines, causing blockages that may require surgical intervention.
Oral Injuries: Chewing on hard sticks can cause damage to a dog’s teeth, potentially leading to fractures or dental injuries.
Toxicity: Some types of wood can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, sticks found on the ground could be contaminated with chemicals like pesticides.
What to Look For If Your Dog Has Chewed a Stick
If your dog is a stick-chewer, it’s important to be vigilant for signs of potential complications:
Mouth Checking: Regularly inspect your dog’s mouth for any cuts, bleeding, or splinters lodged in the gums or between teeth.
Behavior Changes: Watch for signs of discomfort such as pawing at the mouth, drooling more than usual, or reluctance to eat.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Look for vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or difficulty defecating, which could indicate an internal injury or blockage.
Lethargy or Discomfort: Any changes in your dog’s energy levels or signs of pain should be taken seriously.
Coughing or Gagging: These could be signs of a stick piece stuck in the throat.
Other Items Dogs Should Not Chew
- Cooked Bones: These can splinter and cause internal damage or obstructions.
- Plastic Toys: Small pieces can break off and become choking hazards.
- Rocks: Chewing rocks can lead to broken teeth and other oral injuries.
- Electrical Cords: Pose a risk of electric shock or electrocution.
- Household Chemicals: Containers can leak, leading to poisoning.
- Certain Human Foods: Foods like chocolate, grapes, and onions are toxic to dogs.
- Rubber Bands & Hair Ties: Can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
- Socks and Clothing: These can cause intestinal obstruction if ingested.
- Furniture and Carpets: Chewing on these can lead to ingestion of harmful materials.
- Trash: Can contain a variety of dangerous items and substances.
Understanding and Addressing Non-Food Chewing in Dogs
Dogs chewing on non-food items is a behavior that, while common, can be concerning for pet owners. This behavior, known as pica, can be harmful and may be indicative of underlying issues. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior is key to effectively addressing and preventing it.
Reasons Your Dog May Be Chewing Non-Food Items
Teething in Puppies: Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase where chewing helps relieve discomfort.
Boredom or Lack of Stimulation: Dogs often chew to relieve boredom, especially if they are not receiving enough physical or mental stimulation.
Anxiety or Stress: Chewing can be a coping mechanism for anxious or stressed dogs.
Nutritional Deficiencies: In some cases, dogs may chew non-food items due to a lack of certain nutrients in their diet.
Medical Issues: Certain health problems, including gastrointestinal issues, can lead to pica.
Habit or Curiosity: Sometimes, dogs chew simply out of habit or curiosity, especially if they have been reinforced for this behavior in the past.
How to Stop the Behavior
To stop your dog from chewing on non-food items, a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying cause is essential. Providing appropriate chew toys can redirect the chewing instinct to safer and more suitable outlets. It’s beneficial to rotate these toys to keep them interesting and engaging for your dog.
Increasing physical activity through regular walks and play sessions is also crucial as it helps to expend excess energy that might otherwise be directed toward destructive chewing. Mental stimulation plays an equally important role; engaging your dog in puzzle games, training sessions, and other mentally stimulating activities can prevent boredom and reduce the urge to chew on inappropriate items.
When dealing with anxiety-related chewing, identifying and reducing the source of stress is key. If your dog chews out of anxiety or stress, it may be necessary to consult with a veterinarian or a dog behaviorist. They can provide professional advice and, in some cases, recommend medication or specialized training techniques.
Nutritional assessment is also important to rule out any deficiencies that might be contributing to the behavior. Removing temptations by keeping non-food items out of reach and supervising your dog can prevent the habit from forming or worsening. Consistent training using positive reinforcement can teach your dog what is and isn’t appropriate to chew. Remember that punishment can increase anxiety and exacerbate the problem, so it’s important to rely on positive methods.
Could it be Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common issue in dogs, especially as they age. Here are signs to watch out for:
- Bad Breath: Persistent bad odor from the mouth.
- Red or Swollen Gums: Indicates inflammation.
- Bleeding Gums: Especially when eating or chewing.
- Loose or Lost Teeth: Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
- Difficulty Eating: Pain or discomfort while eating.
- Pawing at the Mouth: Indicates oral discomfort or pain.
Treating Gum Disease
Steps for Treatment
Veterinary Check-Up: A thorough dental examination by a veterinarian is crucial.
Professional Cleaning: Your vet may recommend a professional cleaning under anesthesia.
Home Care: Regular brushing with dog-specific toothpaste and dental chews can help maintain oral health.
Diet and Supplements: Certain diets and supplements can support dental health.
Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on your dog’s oral health and consult your vet if you notice any changes.
Conclusion
Preventing your dog from chewing on harmful items is a crucial aspect of their overall health care. By being aware of the dangers posed by seemingly innocuous objects like sticks and other items, you can protect your dog from potential harm. Additionally, being vigilant about oral health and addressing gum disease promptly can save your dog from pain and more serious health issues. Always consult with your veterinarian for advice and treatment options to ensure the best care for your canine companion.
