As every kid knows, a good stick can make an amazing toy for an afternoon of fun. Dogs are no different—except they may see a stick as a chew toy instead of a sword or magic wand.
Chewing on sticks can help dogs alleviate boredom, learn a scent, or satisfy their curiosity.
Sticks are a particular draw because they’re everywhere—and your dog may have learned that they get attention for chewing on sticks. But there are many more other explanations. Read more about this behaviour below and discover expert-approved chew toys to replace those risky sticks.
7 Reasons Dogs Like to Eat or Chew Sticks
Some of the following factors may be at play for why dogs gravitate towards chewing on sticks:
- Texture. Sticks have a rough texture, similar to bones, which can appeal to dogs who enjoy snacks, says David D’Angelo, a pet nutritionist and founder of Pet Food Reviews.
- Smell. D’Angelo also says that sticks have a woodsy smell that can attract dogs because it reminds them of their wild instincts.
- Boredom. Some dogs chew sticks because they’re bored, says Dwight Alleyne, a veterinarian with Better Pet. A bored dog can be a destructive dog.
- Teething. Chewing helps with pain, so puppies might chew sticks to make their sore gums feel better while they’re teething.
- Anxiety. Anxious dogs might chew on sticks to calm down, especially if they have separation anxiety. Some dogs with anxiety or obsessive habits chew to feel less stressed.
- Attention. If you chase your dog every time they have a stick, they may be training you to pay attention to them. Plus, they get a stick out of it!
- Pica. If your dog is not just chewing but eating the stick, they could have a medical condition called pica, which causes dogs to eat non-food objects. Beyond sticks, a dog with pica may also eat things like dirt or cloth.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Sticks?
A dog chewing on a stick may look picture-perfect. But just like cats and milk saucers, some things are better left for the postcards.
The risks associated with sticks include choking, sharp splinters, and bowel obstruction. Bigger pieces of the stick can break off and get stuck in your dog’s mouth, throat, or stomach.
“These splinters can lead to serious health issues, including punctures or blockages that may require surgical intervention,” D’Angelo explains.
Also, some sticks come from poisonous plants, like boxwood or beech trees. If a dog chews on these, they may start to display symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain.
When to See a Vet
Sticks are likely to splinter and cause lesions in the mouth. Signs of these issues include:
- vomiting
- mouth bleeding
- whimpering or whining
- changes in bathroom habits
If your dog is choking on a piece of the stick, you can try the dog Heimlich manoeuvre and then go to the emergency vet right away.
Lastly, if you think your dog ate a stick from a poisonous plant, call the Animal PoisonLine (a 24/7 paid-for service) or your vet for help on what to do next.
How to Teach Your Dog to Stop Eating Sticks
Dogs love to chew, but there are ways to teach them what is the right thing to chew on. But you can help them stop chewing sticks by trying some of these ideas:
- Keep a close eye on them. Being on your phone at the park is one way to teach your dog nothing. Intervening before your dog chews on a stick is the best way to stop the habit.
- Trade the stick for treats. This may take some training but every time your dog gets a stick, trade it for a treat. Eventually, your dog will learn to bring sticks to you instead of running away with them.
- Try brain games before your walk. If your dog chews because they’re bored, try activities that make them think, like trick training or dog sports. You can also give them puzzle toys to keep them entertained.
- Exercise before resting in a park. Physical activity is good for your dog’s brain. Giving your dog more exercise might help them use up their energy in a healthy way instead of chewing sticks.
- Get a handle on their anxiety. If your dog chews sticks because they’re nervous, try to figure out what’s causing their anxiety. For example, if they chew sticks only when you leave the house, they might need training for separation anxiety or anti-anxiety medication.
- Ask a vet about medication. If your dog has a medical problem, like pica, that makes them eat things that aren’t food, your vet might suggest medicine to help along with training.
Best Alternatives to Sticks for Dogs
If you want your dog to chew on something safer than sticks, try one of these options:
- Synthetic chew toys. Look for strong chew toys, like Kongs, that won’t break easily. “These rubber toys can be filled with treats and are designed for heavy chewers,” D’Angelo says.
- Dental chews. Edible dental chews are safe for chewing and help clean your dog’s teeth, too.
- Antlers: Chew toys made from antlers are tough and can handle a lot of chewing. “While they are durable, it’s important to supervise your dog to prevent tooth damage,” D’Angelo says.
- Bully sticks. Made from beef muscles, these chewy treats are safe, even for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Frozen veggies. If you don’t have any chew toys, try giving your dog a frozen carrot (or a carrot stick for smaller dogs).
It’s best to watch your dog when they have any chew toy so you can help if they break off a small piece. Also, remember that treats and human food should be less than 10% of your dog’s regular diet.
