Why Do Dogs Eat Dirt?

It’s no secret that dogs have some quirky eating habits. From munching grass to chewing the sofa, their appetites can be… unpredictable. But if your dog regularly comes inside with a muddy snout or seems obsessed with eating soil, it might be more than just a bit of playful digging.

While occasional digging or dirt-snacking can be harmless, there are potential side effects of a dog eating dirt, and it often leaves pet parents wondering, what is a dog lacking when it eats dirt? If you’ve found yourself Googling things like “why is my dog eating dirt all of a sudden” or “how to stop dog eating soil,” you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll explore why dogs do it, when to worry (especially if your senior dog is eating dirt and vomiting), and most importantly, how to stop your dog from eating dirt safely and effectively. Let’s get to the root of it (pun fully intended).

What is pica in dogs?

You may have heard the term pica before or maybe not. Pica is a condition where a dog craves and eats non-food items, such as socks, rocks, or soil. It can be caused by things like mineral deficiencies, chronic stress, or underlying medical conditions. ¹.

While it might seem like a harmless quirk, pica isn’t something to ignore. In fact, research has found that many dogs who regularly eat non-food items may have an underlying chronic enteropathy — a long-term digestive issue that affects nutrient absorption and gut health. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. ².  Besides, some of the materials and objects can be dangerous or toxic for dogs, so it’s best to nip this issue in the bud. 

How to manage pica in dogs

If your dog is eating things they shouldn’t, it’s important to talk to your vet. They can help rule out any nutritional or medical issues. Catching the cause early can make a big difference.

Otherwise, treatment will depend on what’s driving the behavior. For many dogs, managing pica means a mix of training and prevention:

• Redirect their attention with toys or treats
  
• Use a leash in high-risk areas (e.g., at the park or in the garden)
  
• Supervise outdoor time closely
  
• In some cases, a muzzle may be recommended for safety
  
• Work with a trainer or behaviorist if anxiety or habit is involved

The goal is to break the habit gently and consistently, not through punishment, but by redirecting and limiting access to risky items.

Why is my dog eating dirt? Common causes 

If your dog is specifically eating dirt, mud, or soil, there could be a range of reasons for this, and while it’s generally unknown why, there are some theories..

Nutritional causes of dogs eating dirt

Nutrient Deficiency

Sometimes, when a dog is constantly eating dirt, it may be their body’s way of trying to make up for something that’s missing in their diet. Essential minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, and even calcium play vital roles in everything from energy levels to immune function and bone health. If a dog isn’t getting enough of these nutrients (whether due to poor-quality food, difficulty absorbing nutrients, or increased physical demands), they might instinctively try to find those minerals elsewhere, including in the soil. You might also notice other signs that suggest a nutrient deficiency. Your dog could seem more tired than usual, their coat might look dull or shed excessively, and their digestion may be off. 

Low-Quality Diet

Not all commercial dog foods are equal. Incomplete or poor-quality diets may lack the nutrients dogs need, prompting them to look elsewhere.

Anaemia

When your dog has a low red blood cell count (anaemia), it can lead to unusual cravings, including for dirt. Since red blood cells carry oxygen around the body, a deficiency can cause fatigue, pale gums, and in some cases, the instinct to eat soil as the body searches for missing nutrients like iron. ³  

Upset Stomach

Some dogs turn to dirt when they’re feeling nauseous or dealing with digestive discomfort. The texture and mineral content of soil may have a soothing effect on an upset stomach, but it’s not a safe or recommended solution and could make things worse.

Behavorial causes of dogs eating dirt

Boredom or Stress 

Dogs without enough physical or mental stimulation may resort to dirt eating out of frustration or anxiety.

Learned Behavior

If other dogs in the home do it, yours might copycat the habit, especially if left unsupervised outdoors. 

Medical

Dogs with gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammation, ulcers, or chronic digestive conditions, may eat soil in an instinctive attempt to ease discomfort.

Because medical causes aren’t always obvious, any sudden or persistent dirt-eating habit should be taken seriously and investigated by a professional.

Is it bad for dogs to eat dirt?

In short: yes, it can be.

Potential dangers of dirt eating

• Gastrointestinal obstruction – Clumps of soil or foreign objects can cause serious internal blockages.
  
• Parasites and bacteria – Soil can harbour hookworms, roundworms, or harmful bacteria.
  
• Toxins – Fertilisers, pesticides, or contaminated dirt may poison your dog.

Even if it’s not toxic, dirt eating shouldn’t be ignored. What begins as an occasional nibble can turn into a compulsive habit that becomes harder to break and potentially more harmful over time.

What to do if your dog is eating dirt?

Visit the your vet

Ruling out medical issues should be your first step. Bloodwork can check for anaemia, mineral deficiencies, or gastrointestinal disorders.

Review their diet

Make sure your dog’s food is complete, balanced, and high-quality. Sometimes, a simple food switch can resolve the issue.

Monitor behavior

Keep an eye out for signs of stress, boredom, or changes in routine that may be triggering the behavior.

How to prevent dogs from eating dirt?

• Block access to dirt-heavy areas
  
• Use positive reinforcement to redirect
  
• Try puzzle feeders to reduce boredom
  
• Consult a behaviorist if needed

When to worry about your dog eating dirt

If your dog is:

• Suddenly obsessed with eating dirt
  
• Vomiting or has Diarrhea
  
• Drinking excessive amounts of water
  

…it’s time to call the vet immediately.

While the odd nibble of soil isn’t always cause for panic, repeated or sudden dirt eating is a red flag. Whether it stems from diet, behavior, or health, there’s almost always an underlying reason worth addressing.