Dog Keeps Eating Dirt

Why Is My Dog Eating Dirt?

Eating dirt, sometimes called geophagia, is one of the more common unusual eating habits in dogs. For some dogs it is a harmless quirk, especially in curious puppies. For others, it can point to a medical, nutritional or behavioral issue. Because it is hard to tell which from the outside, it is worth paying attention to how often it happens and whether anything else has changed.

Common Reasons Dogs Eat Dirt

• Curiosity and exploration. Soil smells interesting, and young dogs explore by mouth.
• Boredom, stress or anxiety. Dogs left without enough exercise or stimulation may eat dirt out of habit or to self-soothe (see ways to calm a dog).
• Nausea or an upset stomach. Dogs sometimes eat dirt, grass or mud when they feel unwell.
• Dietary issues. Some people suspect a mineral shortage, but this is not clearly established. A balanced complete diet should cover a dog’s needs, and your vet can check if you are concerned.
• Medical conditions. Anemia, digestive disease or intestinal parasites have been linked with cravings for non-food items. A sudden or intense interest in dirt is a reason to book an exam.
• Pica. This is the term for regularly eating non-food items. It can have behavioral or medical roots. Persistent mouthing of surfaces is covered in why your dog keeps licking everything.
• Interesting smells. Soil may carry the scent of food, animals or compost.

Risks of Eating Dirt

• Parasites. Soil can contain worm eggs and other parasites.
• Chemicals. Fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and treated soil can be harmful.
• Toxic mulch. Cocoa bean shell mulch is a commonly cited hazard.
• Blockages or injury. Stones, sticks or sharp material swallowed with soil can cause obstruction or damage.
• Bacteria. Soil contaminated with animal waste can carry germs.

What to Do If Your Dog Ate Dirt

For a small mouthful of ordinary garden soil, many dogs are fine, but keep an eye on them. Call your vet if:

• The area was treated with fertilizer, pesticide or other chemicals
• Your dog ate a large amount, or swallowed stones or other items
• Your dog shows vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, a tight belly or loss of appetite

My dog ate potting mix. What should I do?

Potting mixes vary and may contain fertilizers, fungi or other additives. Remove access, note the product name and amount, and call your vet or a pet poison helpline for advice, especially if the bag lists fertilizer or other ingredients. Do not induce vomiting unless you are told to.

How to Stop a Dog From Eating Dirt

1. Rule out health causes first. Book a vet check, particularly if the behavior is new, intense or comes with other symptoms. They may suggest a fecal test or bloodwork.
2. Increase exercise and enrichment. Add sniff walks, play, training games and puzzle toys. Using meals as enrichment, like in our guide to slowing a fast eater, can also help.
3. Teach “leave it.” Practice with low-value items and reward your dog for turning toward you. See impulse control training and games for step-by-step exercises.
4. Manage the area. Cover bare soil, fence off potted plants, lift potting mix out of reach and use a short lead where dirt is tempting.
5. Redirect and reward. Carry treats and call your dog away before they dig in.
6. Avoid harsh punishment. It can add stress and may make the behavior secretive.
7. Review the diet with your vet. Do not add supplements without advice.

If your dog is a puppy who mouths everything outdoors, close supervision and early training make a big difference. Leaves are another common target, as covered in dog eating leaves.

When to See a Vet

• Dirt eating that is sudden, frequent or hard to interrupt
• Eating other non-food items such as rocks, fabric or plastic
• Vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, weight loss, lethargy or changes in appetite
• Possible exposure to chemicals or toxic mulch

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of an unhappy dog?

Signs can include withdrawal, hiding, restlessness, destructive chewing, excessive licking, changes in appetite or sleep and loss of interest in play. These can also be signs of pain or illness, so a vet check is sensible. See signs your dog is sad for more.

Why does my puppy eat everything outside?

Puppies explore with their mouths and are still learning what is food (see the 8-week-old puppy training schedule for supervised outdoor time). Supervise, reward them for leaving things alone and use a short lead in tempting areas.

Related Reading

Eating habits can be linked to appetite and thirst. See how to keep a dog hydrated and our guide to a dog that eats treats but not dog food.