Why does Great Dane eat unnecessary things?
Eating of unedible things, like toilet paper, candy wrappers, socks
and many other objects is very popular problem, faced by many
Great Danes' owners. This behaviour isn’t only unhygienic, but also
very dangerous for the dog’s health. And to prevent your Great Dane
from doing it, let’s determine why he may do it.
Medical reasons
To these reasons belong incorrect feeding, some infectious diseases
(for example, rabies), worms, diseases of stomach and bowels.
Please, visit the vet with your dog to eliminate these reasons.
However, there are also some behavioral reasons.
To attract attention
The dog understands, that when he snaps at some unedible or
dangerous object, it attracts his owner’s attention. Owner’s
attention, even if it’s negative, plays very important role in the
dog’s life. For example, when the owner scolds the dog, or even
spanks him, the dog never feels much pain and doesn’t interpret
these actions as negative.
Boredom
Boredom or lack of physical activity are often the main reasons why
Great Dane eats unnecessary things. On the one hand, chewing is a
kind of physical activity. On the other hand, it’s a way to get new
information about environment.
Puppy's habits
Eating unnecessary objects may be one of dog’s puppy's habits.
Puppies, that are often left without attention, may play and gnaw at
different things for a long time and they may keep this habit for
many years.
Accident
Dog use his mouth to study, carry and eat. Sometimes, these
functions are closely related to each other and Great Dane may
accidentally swallow the thing, that was meant to be studied first.
What should be done to make Great
Dane stop eating unnecessary things?
Sometimes long walks and more physical activities with your dog are
enough to prevent him from eating unnecessary things. Your Great
Dane will be tired after the walk and won’t seek for things to chew.
It may also be necessary to buy dog toys for your Dane. You will be
able to redirect dog’s attention to “right” objects, that aren’t
dangerous. But, be sure that the dog won’t be able to swallow
the toy!
If your dog eats objects only to attract your attention, ignore this
behaviour. Any reaction, like chase or scream, will be considered as
encouragement. The best way out is to pay enough attention to your
dog.
In order to prevent eating of unnecessary objects you may do the
following:
- get rid of dangerous objects in your house and yard
- use special sprays with unpleasant smell, when the dog reaches
for the object
- feed your Great Dane more often, but give to him small
portions, to make a sense of satiety in his stomach
