Why do dogs eat leaves and sticks? (2024)

Why do dogs eat leaves and sticks?

Some experts hypothesize that's why dogs will instinctively seek out greenery to munch on. We do know that wild dogs are also omnivores, and as such, they also eat plant material. So it may be that by eating grass and leaves, your pet dog is simply doing what comes naturally.

The condition wherein dogs are compelled to eat non-edible items is known as pica, and it may be an indicator of underlying issues. Eating leaves may be a part of your dog's primal instincts, but the behavior could also be a sign of other medical issues, nutritional deficiencies, or even boredom.

The Root of the Behavior

Dogs chew sticks because they are easy to find outdoors and they provide a texture that is easy and fun to chew. If you have ever seen a dog with a stick, you most likely noticed it keeps him entertained for quite a long time.

While non-domestic dogs may eat leaves and grass to supplement their diet, your dog should be getting all the nutrients they need from their daily meals. While leaves and grasses do contain a lot of fiber, they are low in nutritional value.

Dogs need roughage in their diets and grass is a good source of fiber. A lack of roughage affects the dog's ability to digest food and pass stool, so grass may actually help their bodily functions run more smoothly.

A stressed pup may feel the need to chew, and the chewing and eating of wood may act as their outlet for stress. They like the taste: Oddly enough, your dog may find the twigs and bark in the yard incredibly tasty. They very well might be eating the bark for their dietary pleasure.

Sticks have a unique smell and texture that make them great for chewing and exploring. "Dogs and especially puppies explore the world with their mouths so looking for and picking up sticks is only natural," says Dr. Martin.

Dogs chew on wood because they like chewing on things. That's why you see dogs play with chew toys, and why chew bones and treats are so popular with dogs.

Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them!

Chewing on sticks may be fun for your dog, but there is a risk of damaging their teeth and the soft tissues surrounding them. Long-term chewing on anything that is not specifically designed for chewing can wear down your dog's teeth. As the teeth wear down the inner pulp cavity can become exposed which will cause pain.

How do I stop my puppy from eating leaves?

Try tossing a Frisbee or playing another interactive game with them, or buy them a sturdy chew toy to keep them occupied. On the chance that your dog's pica behavior is caused by a nutritional deficiency, switching to a better dog food, especially a high-fiber variety, could help alleviate the problem.

Things like feces of other animals, dead animals/road kill, stagnant water, and even foreign objects, like leaves and wood chips, may all cause diarrhea in dogs.

Prevention of Eating Leaves

Provide plenty of exercise and keep them active. Keep changing their toys so they do not become bored with the same old toys. Spend extra time with your dog, this can be playing a game like fetch or working on their training. Stay upbeat and happy during your time with your dog.

Introduce a heavy branch, one the dog cannot lift before working with sticks. Once the dog learns to ignore the logs, then work toward smaller sticks. Always set the training steps up on a way that you do not have to react with bad decisions. Drill exercises so it's the dog being trained rather than the human.

Try tossing a Frisbee or playing another interactive game with them, or buy them a sturdy chew toy to keep them occupied. On the chance that your dog's pica behavior is caused by a nutritional deficiency, switching to a better dog food, especially a high-fiber variety, could help alleviate the problem.