Kelsey Opel
We’ve all seen a cute dog running around with a stick in its mouth. Sometimes they even like to lie down and munch on it as a natural chew toy.
It may seem harmless, but chewing on sticks can be very dangerous for your pup.
Dogs tend to chew on sticks when they’re bored. Their teeth can break the wood and create splinters. These sharp pieces can damage their teeth, gums, and even their digestive tracts.
Long-term chewing can also wear down their canine pearls leading to a lot of pain in their mouths. So there are all of these issues plus the risk of a choking hazard.
As for what to do if your dog does get a stick stuck in its mouth? Do not pull it out to prevent further harm. Head straight to the vet to help your pup safely recover.
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Instead of sticks, encourage your dog to chew on safe dog toys. You can also use treats to reinforce positive behavior to help them break this dangerous habit.
If you notice your dog is overly munching on sticks, this could also be a symptom of pica, a condition where dogs crave and eat non-food items. If you’re worried your dog might have pica, it’s best to consult your vet.
While trying to train your dog out of this challenging habit, be encouraged that they most likely understand what you’re saying to them.
