Understanding Pica in Dogs: Why They Eat Non-Food Items

Pica is a condition where dogs ingest non-food items such as rocks, fabric, dirt, or household objects. While it might seem harmless, it can indicate underlying health or behavioural issues that need attention.

This guide explains what Pica is, potential causes, and steps you can take to help your dog.

What is Pica?

Pica occurs when a dog eats items that are not part of their normal diet. Common examples include:

• Rocks and stones
• Dirt and soil
• Fabric or clothing
• Household items
• 
  

Potential Causes of Pica

Pica can result from multiple factors, including:

• Pain, such as hip dysplasia or gastrointestinal discomfort
• Boredom
• Anxiety or stress
• Nutritional deficiencies or an imbalanced diet
• Psychological factors
• Pancreatic enzyme deficiency
• Attention-seeking behavior
• Exploratory behavior, which may increase with age
• Premature maternal separation
• Compulsive disorders
• 
  

Pain

Dogs often hide signs of pain, which can trigger Pica. Possible indicators include:

• Lameness or changes in gait
• Difficulty jumping or avoiding certain movements

Recommendations:

• Record short videos of your dog walking or running to detect subtle issues.
• Gentle “freework” exercises can reveal areas your dog avoids putting weight on.
• Adjust the home environment to prevent aggravating potential pain while consulting a veterinarian.
  
  

Pica may also occur as a response to gastrointestinal discomfort.

Boredom

Dogs require mental stimulation to prevent the development of unwanted behaviors.

Suggestions for mental engagement:

• Avoid small chews that could break into pieces if the dog picks up stones
• Scentwork games—hide treats around the house or garden
• Use durable bones, such as ostrich bones, that do not splinter
• Fill large Kongs with frozen food for prolonged engagement
• Serve wet food on a licky mat and dry food in a puzzle feeder
• 
  

Anxiety, Stress, and Psychological Factors

Stress can contribute to Pica. Common triggers include:

• Loud noises
• Separation anxiety
• Tension with other dogs

Pain can increase irritability and overall stress levels. Identifying and managing triggers can reduce anxiety-related Pica.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies or imbalanced diets can cause dogs to eat non-food items.

• Coprophagia (consuming feces) may indicate a deficiency.
• A veterinarian can recommend blood or stool tests to identify dietary gaps.

Feeding guidelines:

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended feeding amounts
• Use a scale for consistency with dry food
• Choose high-quality foods with:
• High meat and vegetable content
• No artificial colorings or preservatives such as BHA/BHT
• Avoid vague ingredients such as “animal by-products” or “derivatives”

Pancreatic Enzyme Deficiency

Symptoms may include:

• Soft or bulky stools
• Increased appetite with weight loss
• Vomiting
• Greasy coat around the tail

Diagnosis requires blood and stool tests.

Attention-Seeking Behavior

Some dogs may perform Pica to obtain a reaction from their owners. Using a camera can help determine whether the behavior occurs when unsupervised.

Exploratory or Habitual Behavior

Dogs explore their environment with their mouths. If they do not have appropriate items to chew, lick, or shred, they may turn to household objects.

Early Life Factors

• Premature maternal separation or stress during the mother’s pregnancy may predispose dogs to higher anxiety.
• Compulsive behaviors such as excessive licking, pacing, circling, or shadow chasing can be associated with Pica.

Training and Management

While determining the underlying cause, Pica may be managed through:

• Training: Teach commands like leave it and drop it
• Environmental management: Remove tempting items from access
• Muzzle training: Use if necessary for safety

References

• Karen Overall, Clinical Behavioural Medicine for Small Animals (1997)
• Landsberg et al., Handbook of Behaviour Problems (2003)
• BSAVA Canine and Feline Behavioural Problems and the Blackwell 5-Minute Behavioural Consult
• Mills, J. Pain and Problem Behaviour in Cats and Dogs, MDPI, 2020 Link