Dog owners would know that apart from being good eaters, dogs have the unaccountable inclination to eat repulsive things. The habit of eating non-food items is called pica. Dog owners are aware of the pets inclination to eat non-edible things but they can’t help but be exasperated if the pet eats disgusting things. Rocks are one of the non-food items that are eaten by dogs.

Puppies are more inclined to eat rocks. Because puppies are very curious, they investigate anything they find interesting by using their mouths. The hard rock will be chewed by the pup as if it were a fruity bubble gum. Eating rocks though is dangerous. The soft tissues of the mouth can be wounded by the hard rock. Moreover this object is not meant for the dog’s delicate digestive tract as ingestion can result to diarrhea. A rock can get lodged in the dog’s esophagus or in the intestinal tract and create a life threatening obstruction.

We know that dogs are voracious eaters. We also know that man’s best friends can develop hazardous and socially unacceptable behaviors. Dog owners will still be perplexed by the dog’s craving for rocks. The habit of eating rocks can signify that the pet has a medical problem such as brain diseases. A dog’s rock eating habit that is not caused by a medical concern is probably caused by a behavioral concern.

The dog’s propensity to eat rocks can be caused by boredom, anxiety or stress. Dogs would always love to get the attention of the family because these are social animals. If contact with humans or with other animals are not provided the dog will be bored. Boredom is one of the reasons why dogs develop unacceptable behavior. Eating rocks is a sign that the dog is bored. Eating rocks can be the dog’s effort to get the attention of the master.

For proper diagnosis, humans have to have a series of laboratory tests. The same tests and examinations would not be necessary for dogs as nature has provided these animals with the capability to know what is wrong with their system. Rock eating can be the dog’s way of correcting an undiagnosed nutrient deficiency. When the dog starts to develop a craving for rocks ask yourself if you are being a good pet owner that provides time to bond with the dog and one that gives the dog premium quality food.