Pica-chew! Understanding and managing Pica in dogs
Understanding Pica in Dogs: Causes, Risks, and Solutions
Pica is a behavioural condition characterised by the chewing and consumption of non-food items that lack nutritional value. This behaviour can become compulsive if performed in a repetitive, ritualistic manner. While pica typically begins in young dogs, its sudden onset in older dogs necessitates a medical evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions (Piotti, 2024). Some dogs can be genetically predisposed to pica such as labradors.
Common items that may be ingested by dogs with pica include:
Food packaging
Socks
Underwear
Toys
Plastic
These items can pose serious risks, such as sharp edges that can obstruct the gastrointestinal tract and cause digestive upset. Although the exact cause of pica is unknown, in younger dogs and puppies, it might be linked to teething and natural chewing behaviours.
Managing Pica in Dogs
Managing pica involves a combination of preventative measures and behavioural training. Here are some effective strategies:
Muzzle Training: Using a basket muzzle can prevent your dog from ingesting harmful objects. A basket muzzle allows the dog to breathe and drink while providing a physical barrier to non-food items.
Keep Items Out of Reach: Ensure that all household members are aware of the importance of not leaving items like socks and food packaging within the dog’s reach.
Provide Enrichment Activities: Engage your dog with food-related enrichment activities such as lickimats, Kongs, and puzzle feeders. These activities can keep your dog occupied and reduce the likelihood of them turning to non-food items.
Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies: It is sometimes hypothesised that pica in dogs may result from nutritional deficiencies. Ensuring the dog receives a nutritionally complete diet may help mitigate this behaviour (Landsberg et al., 2013).
Behavioural Training: Teach your dog alternative behaviours that are incompatible with pica. For example, training your dog to carry or play with a toy when they are tempted to chew on non-food items can be helpful. Pica can also develop as a way for dogs to gain human attention and so how you interact with the dog is important. Removing the item swiftly without turning it into a game and chasing them around the house.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you are unable to manage your dog’s pica despite trying these strategies, or if the behaviour suddenly develops in an older dog, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviourist. They can help identify any underlying medical issues and provide tailored advice for managing the behaviour and save you thousands of pounds on vet bills due to your dog eating something they shouldn’t have!
Pica can be a challenging behaviour to address, but with patience and the right approach, you can help your dog overcome this issue and lead a healthy, happy life. By understanding the causes and implementing preventative measures, you can ensure your dog’s environment is safe and enriching, reducing the risk of pica-related complications.
Thanks,
LT x
References:
Landserg, G., Hunthausen, W. and Ackerman, L. (2013) Behaviour problems of the dog and cat 3rd ed. Saunders Eslevier
Piotti, P. (2024) ‘Pica ion dogs (Canis)’, Vetlexicon, found at Pica in Dogs (Canis) | Vetlexicon, accessed 12/06/24