How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Everything Outside

With so many tempting things outside, it’s understandable why dogs would want to chew on sticks or crunch on acorns. As fun as it is for your dog to eat everything outside, it’s not healthy for him to consume indigestible foreign bodies. Next time your dog tries eating mulch, give these tips a try.

Keep an Eye on Your Dog First

To stop your dog from eating everything, it’s important to know when it happens, so you can redirect your dog. When your dog is outdoors, hang out and watch your dog at all times. During the time it takes to text your friend, your dog will have been able to swallow a whole acorn.

Keep your dog on a 4- to 6-foot leash to prevent pica behavior, which is the consumption of indigestible objects. Plus, keeping your dog close to you helps change your dog’s behavior quickly.

Play “Trade”

When your dog picks up a stick or rock to chew on, play the “trade” game. Say “trade” and offer your dog a super yummy treat. When your dog drops the stick, pick up the stick and then give your dog the yummy treat. Of course, throw away the stick to prevent your dog from picking it up again.

Trying to remove an object from your dog’s mouth will teach your dog to turn away from you or swallow the item faster, so always play the “trade” game. If your dog eats dog poop, picking up poop immediately is the best way to prevent this behavior.

Give Your Dog Fun Things to Do Outside

Leave fun toys outside to keep your dog occupied. Even better is to play tug or fetch with your dog after your dog potties. Once dogs learn to play with toys, they will quickly ignore sticks, stones and other indigestible objects outdoors.

Sometimes, dogs develop pica due to behavior and nutritional issues. If your dog continues to eat everything outdoors, contact your veterinarian. It may be due to a medical issue.