It can be concerning to see your dog regularly eating dirt, whether from the garden, potted plants, or the backyard.
While occasional curiosity is normal, consistent dirt eating isn’t just messy—it could signal deeper issues.
From dietary imbalances and behavioral habits to medical concerns, this behavior has several potential causes.
We outline why dogs eat dirt, the potential dangers, and practical steps you can take to discourage this behavior effectively.
Table of Contents
Why Does My Dog Eat Dirt?
Dogs eating dirt is a fairly common behavior and can stem from a variety of reasons:
1.Nutritional Deficiencies
One of the most common causes of dirt eating (also called geophagia) in dogs is nutritional deficiency.
Dogs may instinctively consume soil because they are lacking certain minerals like iron, calcium, or zinc in their diet.
If your dog’s food isn’t balanced or lacks essential nutrients, they might try to supplement their diet by eating dirt.
2. Digestive Upset or Illness
Sometimes, dogs eat dirt when they have an upset stomach or other gastrointestinal issues.
The ingestion of soil could be an attempt to self-soothe nausea or discomfort, similar to how some dogs eat grass.
This behavior can also indicate digestive problems like parasites, infections, or inflammation.
Related: Dog eating dirt and lethargic (Here’s why)
3. Behavioral Causes and Boredom
Dogs can also eat dirt due to boredom, stress, or anxiety.
If your dog isn’t getting enough mental stimulation or exercise, they might resort to dirt eating as a way to entertain themselves.
Additionally, changes in routine, environment, or household stressors can increase this behavior.
4. Pica: Compulsive Eating Disorder
In some cases, dirt eating is a symptom of pica — a compulsive eating disorder where dogs consume non-food items persistently.
Pica may be caused by medical issues or psychological conditions and requires veterinary diagnosis.
Related: Dog eating dirt and throwing up (Here’s why)
5. Puppy Curiosity and Teething
Puppies often explore the world with their mouths, and eating dirt can simply be a phase of curiosity or teething.
Usually, this behavior decreases as they grow older and gain more appropriate chewing habits.
What Are the Risks of My Dog Eating Dirt?
While occasional dirt ingestion might seem harmless, it can lead to various health problems and risks that owners need to be aware of.
1. Parasites and Bacterial Infections
Soil can harbor parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or giardia, which can infect your dog if ingested.
Bacteria and fungi in soil can also cause infections, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and other symptoms.
2.Toxic Substances and Contaminants
Dirt might contain harmful chemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers, or heavy metals.
Ingesting contaminated soil can cause poisoning and severe illness.
Areas treated with herbicides or where animals defecate should be off-limits to your dog.
3. Intestinal Blockages and Injuries
Eating large amounts of dirt can cause intestinal blockages, which might require emergency veterinary intervention.
Also, sharp objects like small stones or debris mixed with dirt can injure your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
4. Nutritional Imbalance
If your dog is eating dirt to compensate for a nutritional deficiency, the underlying issue remains untreated.
This can lead to long-term health problems if not addressed properly.
Related: Dog keeps eating dirt (Here’s why)
How to Get My Dog to Stop Eating Dirt: Practical Steps
If your dog frequently eats dirt, here’s what you can do to discourage this behavior and keep your dog safe and healthy.
1. Rule Out Medical Issues With Your Veterinarian
Before trying any behavior changes, it’s important to have your dog checked by a vet.
Your veterinarian can perform a thorough physical exam and recommend tests like stool analysis or blood work to rule out parasites, infections, or nutritional deficiencies causing your dog to eat dirt.
If your dog is diagnosed with a medical condition, treating it promptly will often stop the dirt eating habit.
2. Improve Your Dog’s Diet
If your dog’s diet lacks proper nutrients, consider switching to a high-quality, balanced dog food that meets their age, size, and health needs.
Supplementing with vitamins or minerals may be recommended by your vet.
Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Proper hydration can help reduce certain types of compulsive eating behaviors.
3. Provide More Mental and Physical Stimulation
Dogs often eat dirt out of boredom or anxiety.
Increasing your dog’s exercise routine with daily walks, playtime, and training can reduce this behavior.
Mental enrichment activities such as puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, or obedience training can also keep your dog’s mind engaged and less focused on dirt.
4. Limit Access to Dirt and Hazardous Areas
Supervise your dog when outside, especially in areas where they have easy access to dirt, mulch, or garden beds.
Use barriers or fencing to keep your dog away from places where harmful substances may be present.
Creating a designated digging spot or play area with safe materials may redirect your dog’s urge to eat or dig in the dirt.
5. Train and Redirect Your Dog’s Behavior
Positive reinforcement training can be effective to teach your dog commands like “leave it” or “no.” When you see your dog trying to eat dirt, redirect their attention to a toy or a game, rewarding them for obeying.
Consistency is key—reward good behavior and gently discourage unwanted dirt eating.
6. Manage Stress and Anxiety
If stress or anxiety is driving your dog to eat dirt, identifying and reducing stressors is important.
Changes like providing a calm environment, establishing a routine, or using calming products such as pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps can help.
In severe cases, consult with your vet or a professional dog behaviorist for additional support or therapy options.
When to Seek Veterinary Help for Dirt Eating
While dirt eating is often benign, some situations require prompt veterinary attention:
Your dog is eating dirt excessively or obsessively (possible pica).
Your dog shows signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
You notice blood in stool or signs of intestinal distress.
Your dog has ingested large amounts of dirt or potentially toxic soil.
Behavioral changes suggest anxiety or compulsive disorders that interfere with daily life.
If any of these symptoms occur, schedule a veterinary visit immediately to protect your dog’s health.
Key Takeaway
Dogs eat dirt for a variety of reasons—nutritional needs, medical conditions, behavioral causes, or simple curiosity.
While occasional dirt eating is common, persistent or excessive dirt eating should never be ignored as it can lead to serious health risks like parasite infections, poisoning, or intestinal blockages.
To help your dog stop eating dirt:
Get a veterinary exam to rule out underlying health issues.
Ensure your dog’s diet is nutritionally complete and balanced.
Increase physical and mental stimulation to reduce boredom.
Limit access to dirt and hazardous areas outdoors.
Use training techniques to redirect your dog’s attention.
Manage stress and anxiety that might trigger this behavior.
By addressing the root causes and providing proper care, you can keep your dog safe, healthy, and dirt-free.