How Do You Keep Dogs From Eating Your Clothes?
Some dogs, especially puppies, enjoy chewing on and eating non-food items, such as pieces of clothing. The official name for this condition is pica, according to the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Pica can cause life-threatening blockages in a dog's digestive system, leading to severe illness and sometimes death. According to VPI Pet Insurance, the top three non-food items surgically removed from dogs in 2007 were socks, underwear and pantyhose, and surgery to remove these items cost approximately $1,000 apiece.
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Instructions
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Teach your dog the "leave it" command. Say "leave it" when you see your dog pick up something it shouldn't have. Offer a good trade to make it worth the dog's while to drop the offending object. Have your dog's favorite treat or toy ready to give to the dog once it drops the object. Repeat this until the dog knows the meaning of "leave it."
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Manage the situation until your dog learns the rules by picking up anything you don't want it to eat. Put clean laundry away into closets and drawers as soon as it's out of the dryer or off the washing line. Purchase a laundry hamper with a lid to prevent access to dirty clothes. Do not leave items of clothing, such as socks, around the house. Consider blocking off the laundry room and closing closet doors so your dog cannot get to these areas.
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Do not yell at or smack your dog for picking up or eating a taboo item such as a sock or T-shirt. Offer a trade instead, and praise your dog for chewing on an appropriate dog toy.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure your dog gets enough exercise. Conditions such as pica can develop if the dog is bored or anxious due to a lack of exercise or attention.
Watch your dog if it swallows a piece of clothing and does not vomit or pass the item. It could cause a potentially fatal blockage. Watch for vomiting and symptoms of abdominal pain, and call your veterinarian to ask for advice. If your dog has eaten an item of clothing and is in serious pain, take it to a local emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
References
- Photo Credit black labrador puppy chewing image by Scott Slattery from Fotolia.com
