Why Dogs Eat House Plants

Many dogs eat plants and grass.

Many dogs eat nonfood items, a condition called pica. Owners should take caution when having dogs around house plants, though, since some can be toxic.

Puppies

Most puppies eat or try to eat nonfood items.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, normal puppy behavior includes eating or chewing on many different things, including plants. Most puppies should outgrow this behavior by the time they are six months old.

Reasons f

Dogs that eat grass may have a stomach problem.

The ASPCA says that dogs that eat house plants, grass or soil could be doing so because they feel nauseous or to treat worms or another stomach problem they might be experiencing. Eating house plants can also be a sign of a nutritional deficiency.

When to Call Your Vet

Call your vet if your dog eats a possibly toxic plant.

Take your dog to see a veterinarian if he consistently eats house plants to rule out any possible health problems. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten a poisonous plant.

Toxic Plants

Tulips can be toxic to dogs.

The ASPCA lists tulip bulbs, azaleas, chrysanthemums and amaryllis as some of the top plants toxic to dogs. All can cause digestion problems while tulip bulbs can also cause seizures and ingesting chrysanthemums can cause death.

Solutions

Chew toys can help discourage dogs from eating plants.

The ASPCA recommends making plenty of chew toys available for your dog and taking time to play with your dog to help discourage eating plants. You should also put plants in areas where your dog cannot get them and make sure your dog comes to you when you call his name so you can stop him from eating a plant if it happens.

References

• ASPCA: Virtual Pet Behaviorist
• ASPCA: 17 Poisonous Plants

Resources

• ASPCA: 17 Poisonous Plants