Amelia Taylor – Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
If you ever caught your dog eating dirt or soil from your yard, you are not the only one. Pet owners find this a mystery and even a bit alarming. The image of your dog eating dirt may seem strange, but it usually has a cause that can vary from curiosity to an illness. Knowing why your dog consumes dirt will allow you to keep them safe and healthy.
Natural Curiosity and Exploration
Dogs discover the world using their mouths. Puppies in particular are notorious for licking, chewing, and even consuming random objects, dirt included. To some, it’s just a phase of discovery, similar to human babies discovering the world.
What to do: If your dog occasionally eats a small amount of dirt but has no other signs, it’s probably just curious. Refocus their attention with toys or play when they begin digging or sniffing around dirt.
Nutrient Deficiency
One of the most prevalent reasons dogs consume dirt is due to a nutritional deficit. Dirt carries minerals like iron, calcium, or magnesium. If your dog does not have enough of these in their diet, they may automatically attempt to compensate by eating dirt.
What to do: Talk to your vet about your dog’s diet and whether they need a more balanced meal plan. Switching to high-quality dog food or adding a vet-approved supplement can help.
Digestive Upset or Nausea
Certain dogs snack on dirt when they have upset stomachs. The earth might also serve as a natural antacid, calming indigestion or nausea. But sometimes it can worsen the situation if the soil carries harmful bacteria or pesticides.
What to do: If your dog ingests dirt and then vomits, has diarrhea, or acts uncomfortable, consult your vet. They may have an upset stomach, worms, or a gastro condition that requires treatment.
Anemia or Other Health Problems
If your dog chows on dirt on a regular basis, it may be a sign of anemia or another illness that prevents nutrient absorption. Anemic dogs have low red blood cell counts and sometimes want to eat soil because it contains iron.
What to do: A routine blood test will diagnose anemia or deficiencies. Early diagnosis prevents severe complications.
Boredom or Anxiety
Dogs, much like humans, may develop odd habits when they are bored or anxious. Dirt-eating or chewing might be their coping mechanism or an outlet for built-up energy.
What to do: More playtime, longer walks, or puzzle toys that challenge your dog’s mind. Regular routines also decrease stress.
Behavioral Issues or Learned Habit
Eating dirt may become a learned behavior that persists even after the initial cause disappears. It may also be a symptom of a condition called pica, where dogs ingest non-food objects such as rocks, paper, or dirt.
What to do: Take your dog to a vet or a certified animal behaviorist if he regularly eats dirt or ingests other non-foods. They will eliminate medical causes and advise on correction of behavior.
Scent or Environmental Triggers
Soil tends to have food smells, vegetation aromas, or even other animals’ odors. Dogs have an acute sense of smell and can be attracted to these aromas, particularly if they sense something edible in the ground.
What to do: Observe where your dog is digging or consuming soil. Prevent them from playing over chemically treated lawns or fertilized spots.
