I'm a dog who eats rocks. Help!

By Ask Fisher, pet columnist
Published March 14, 2008

ADVERTISEMENT [Handout] Rocky loves rocks.

Dear Fisher,

I am a 9-month-old rottweiler, and I love to taste anything and everything I can get my mouth on. My parents give me toys and they're constantly giving me rawhides and bones, but they are completely gone in about two minutes. My latest snack was a new wooden sculpture that was nailed to the fence outside. Plus, when my parents named me Rocky, they didn't know I would take it so literally. Rocks are one of my favorite snacks. Seems like they help keep my teeth clean, but they can't be too good for my tummy. What can I do to keep my appetite in check?

Rocky

Eating rocks sounds odd to me, but there are many other dogs with the same appetite. Younger dogs will chew on wood or rocks when teething because they like the feel of it and it relieves some of the pain of teething. From my perspective, this seems a little like pounding yourself on the head if you have a headache. For some, this is a passing phase, but many older dogs continue the practice.

That these are not chew toys and can become very harmful if you swallow the pieces. Wood can send nasty splinters to your tummy and rocks can break your teeth, and may result in a trip to the vet to remove indigestible elements from your innards.

Your parents can help by removing smaller rocks from your yard. Larger rocks may give you pause, and you will get bored trying to think of ways to devour them and move on to something else. In your case, that would be wood. Not a good alternative!

Wood can be sprinkled with cayenne pepper or removed from the area altogether. There are also sour or bitter sprays on the market; oftentimes, one good taste will deter your appetite for fence.

While your parents are busy securing their property, they should look for toys you can't eat. According to the Humane Society (www.husu.org), "For dogs and other animal companions, toys are not a luxury, but a necessity." Their recommendations include:

Active toys: Hard rubber toys, such as Nylabone and Kong products, are available in many shapes and sizes and are fun for chewing.

Distraction toys: Kong-type toys, especially when filled with broken-up treats - or a mixture of broken-up treats and peanut butter - can keep a puppy or dog busy for hours.

Comfort toys: Soft stuffed toys are good for several purposes, but aren't appropriate for all dogs. For some dogs, the stuffed toy should be small enough to carry around.

In light of your recent destruction, you will not have a lot of trouble persuading your parents to provide you with new toys. Show your appreciation by actively playing with them and keeping your teeth and innards safe!

-- Fisher lives in Tampa Bay with her humans and loves to give advice. Send questions and a photo to askfisher@gmail.com or visit www.ask-fisher.com . 

[Last modified March 12, 2008, 13:07:45]