{"id":17351,"date":"2025-10-18T07:00:21","date_gmt":"2025-10-18T12:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/?p=17351"},"modified":"2026-02-22T10:34:54","modified_gmt":"2026-02-22T15:34:54","slug":"why-does-my-puppy-eat-dirt","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/why-does-my-puppy-eat-dirt\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Does My Puppy Eat Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Why Does My Puppy Eat Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt? Causes, Dangers, and How to Stop It. If you\u2019ve ever looked out into your yard and caught your puppy chomping on a rock, dragging around a stick, or digging up dirt to eat, you\u2019re not alone. Many puppies go through this phase, and while it can seem silly or harmless at first, the behavior can actually be dangerous. Pet parents often ask: <em data-start=\"595\" data-end=\"677\">Why does my puppy eat rocks, sticks, or dirt? Is it normal? Should I be worried?<\/em><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>The short answer: puppies are naturally curious, but eating non-food items can pose serious health risks. In this guide, we\u2019ll explain why puppies do this, when it\u2019s a cause for concern, and how to stop it safely.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"903\" data-end=\"950\">Why Do Puppies Eat Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"1154\">Puppies use their mouths the way human babies use their hands. Chewing, licking, and tasting are how they explore the world. Here are the most common reasons your puppy may eat rocks, sticks, or dirt:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1156\" data-end=\"1822\">\n<li data-start=\"1156\" data-end=\"1290\">\n<p data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1290\"><strong data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1187\">Curiosity and exploration<\/strong> \u2013 Puppies are naturally curious, and they\u2019ll put just about anything in their mouths to investigate.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1291\" data-end=\"1378\">\n<p data-start=\"1293\" data-end=\"1378\"><strong data-start=\"1293\" data-end=\"1305\">Teething<\/strong> \u2013 Chewing helps soothe sore gums when their adult teeth are coming in.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1379\" data-end=\"1486\">\n<p data-start=\"1381\" data-end=\"1486\"><strong data-start=\"1381\" data-end=\"1392\">Boredom<\/strong> \u2013 Puppies with extra energy or limited stimulation may chew on whatever they find outdoors.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1629\">\n<p data-start=\"1489\" data-end=\"1629\"><strong data-start=\"1489\" data-end=\"1517\">Nutritional deficiencies<\/strong> \u2013 In some cases, eating non-food items can signal a mineral imbalance or a condition called <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petmd.com\/dog\/conditions\/behavioral\/pica-dogs\"><strong data-start=\"1610\" data-end=\"1626\">pica in dogs<\/strong><\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1630\" data-end=\"1722\">\n<p data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1722\"><strong data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1653\">Anxiety or stress<\/strong> \u2013 Some puppies chew or eat strange things as a way to self-soothe.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1723\" data-end=\"1822\">\n<p data-start=\"1725\" data-end=\"1822\"><strong data-start=\"1725\" data-end=\"1745\">Copying behavior<\/strong> \u2013 If other dogs in the household chew sticks or dirt, a puppy may imitate.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"1824\" data-end=\"1827\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"1829\" data-end=\"1880\">Is It Normal for Puppies to Eat Rocks or Dirt?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1882\" data-end=\"2151\">Yes \u2014 it\u2019s fairly common for puppies to mouth or chew on things outside. However, <strong data-start=\"1964\" data-end=\"2016\">just because it\u2019s common doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s safe.<\/strong> Puppies may grow out of the habit, but in the meantime, it can be dangerous if they swallow something sharp, toxic, or indigestible.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2153\" data-end=\"2365\">Chewing on <strong data-start=\"2164\" data-end=\"2188\">grass or soft sticks<\/strong> might not be a huge concern if supervised, but swallowing <strong data-start=\"2247\" data-end=\"2329\">rocks, large chunks of wood, or dirt contaminated with pesticides or chemicals<\/strong> can lead to emergency situations.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"2367\" data-end=\"2370\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"2372\" data-end=\"2421\">The Dangers of Puppies Eating Rocks and Dirt<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2423\" data-end=\"2521\">While the behavior might look cute or funny, the risks are real. Some potential dangers include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2523\" data-end=\"2914\">\n<li data-start=\"2523\" data-end=\"2586\">\n<p data-start=\"2525\" data-end=\"2586\"><strong data-start=\"2525\" data-end=\"2536\">Choking<\/strong> \u2013 Rocks or wood pieces can lodge in the throat.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2587\" data-end=\"2696\">\n<p data-start=\"2589\" data-end=\"2696\"><strong data-start=\"2589\" data-end=\"2612\">Intestinal blockage<\/strong> \u2013 A swallowed rock can get stuck in the stomach or intestines, requiring surgery.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2697\" data-end=\"2765\">\n<p data-start=\"2699\" data-end=\"2765\"><strong data-start=\"2699\" data-end=\"2714\">Perforation<\/strong> \u2013 Sharp sticks can puncture the digestive tract.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2766\" data-end=\"2825\">\n<p data-start=\"2768\" data-end=\"2825\"><strong data-start=\"2768\" data-end=\"2785\">Dental damage<\/strong> \u2013 Hard chewing can break puppy teeth.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2826\" data-end=\"2914\">\n<p data-start=\"2828\" data-end=\"2914\"><strong data-start=\"2828\" data-end=\"2846\">Toxic exposure<\/strong> \u2013 Dirt or mulch may contain chemicals, mold, or harmful bacteria.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2916\" data-end=\"3045\"><strong data-start=\"2916\" data-end=\"2930\">Important:<\/strong> If your puppy actually swallows a rock or large stick, it\u2019s more than a bad habit \u2014 it\u2019s a veterinary emergency.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-6834 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png\" alt=\"puppy eating dirt\" width=\"704\" height=\"131\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png 704w, https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243-300x56.png 300w, https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243-640x119.png 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 704px) 100vw, 704px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 3 []\"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><em><strong>Are you finding this article useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"color: #000080; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/request_quote\">over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"color: #000080; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/join\">Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free Petworks account, and we&#8217;ll email you a\u00a0 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on Petworks!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"3052\" data-end=\"3102\">What to Do If Your Puppy Eats a Rock or Stick<\/h2>\n<h3 data-start=\"3104\" data-end=\"3132\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-7515 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\" alt=\"puppy eating dirt\" width=\"120\" height=\"120\" \/><strong>When It\u2019s an Emergency<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3133\" data-end=\"3207\">Call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately if you notice:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3208\" data-end=\"3375\">\n<li data-start=\"3208\" data-end=\"3253\">\n<p data-start=\"3210\" data-end=\"3253\">Choking, gagging, or difficulty breathing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3254\" data-end=\"3289\">\n<p data-start=\"3256\" data-end=\"3289\">Vomiting, especially repeatedly<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3290\" data-end=\"3310\">\n<p data-start=\"3292\" data-end=\"3310\">Loss of appetite<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3311\" data-end=\"3335\">\n<p data-start=\"3313\" data-end=\"3335\">Lethargy or weakness<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3336\" data-end=\"3375\">\n<p data-start=\"3338\" data-end=\"3375\">Abdominal swelling or signs of pain<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3500\">Never try to make your puppy vomit without veterinary instruction \u2014 sharp objects could cause more damage coming back up.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3502\" data-end=\"3542\">At-Home Management (Non-Emergency)<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3543\" data-end=\"3619\">If your puppy nibbled on dirt or chewed a stick without swallowing chunks:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3620\" data-end=\"3772\">\n<li data-start=\"3620\" data-end=\"3652\">\n<p data-start=\"3622\" data-end=\"3652\">Remove any remaining object.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3653\" data-end=\"3677\">\n<p data-start=\"3655\" data-end=\"3677\">Provide fresh water.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3678\" data-end=\"3711\">\n<p data-start=\"3680\" data-end=\"3711\">Monitor closely for symptoms.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3712\" data-end=\"3772\">\n<p data-start=\"3714\" data-end=\"3772\">Call your vet or an <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/animal-behavior\">animal behaviorist<\/a><\/span> for advice, even if your puppy seems fine.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"3774\" data-end=\"3777\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"3779\" data-end=\"3838\">How to Stop Puppies From Eating Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3840\" data-end=\"3928\">Breaking this habit requires <strong data-start=\"3869\" data-end=\"3926\">a mix of training, management, and safe alternatives.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3930\" data-end=\"3960\">Training and Supervision<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"3961\" data-end=\"4151\">\n<li data-start=\"3961\" data-end=\"4004\">\n<p data-start=\"3963\" data-end=\"4004\">Teach \u201cleave it\u201d and reward compliance.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4005\" data-end=\"4071\">\n<p data-start=\"4007\" data-end=\"4071\">Redirect with toys or treats when they go for a rock or stick.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4072\" data-end=\"4151\">\n<p data-start=\"4074\" data-end=\"4151\">Supervise outdoor playtime, especially in areas with loose gravel or mulch.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-7515 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\" alt=\"puppy eating dirt\" width=\"120\" height=\"120\" \/>\u201cDirt eating is a form of what is termed \u2018pica,\u2019 the ingestion of nonfood materials. There are many causes, including nutritional, behavioral, and physical. Stress or boredom can also lead to eating all sorts of things, including dirt.\u201d &#8211; Holistic veterinarian <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/healthydogworkshop.com\/about\/\"><strong data-start=\"339\" data-end=\"367\">Dr. Laurie S. Coger, DVM<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4153\" data-end=\"4183\">Environmental Management<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"4184\" data-end=\"4372\">\n<li data-start=\"4184\" data-end=\"4253\">\n<p data-start=\"4186\" data-end=\"4253\">Puppy-proof your yard by removing loose rocks, sticks, and mulch.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4254\" data-end=\"4313\">\n<p data-start=\"4256\" data-end=\"4313\">Block access to areas where rocks or dirt are tempting.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4314\" data-end=\"4372\">\n<p data-start=\"4316\" data-end=\"4372\">Consider a designated play area that\u2019s safe and clean.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"4374\" data-end=\"4397\">Safe Alternatives<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"4398\" data-end=\"4593\">\n<li data-start=\"4398\" data-end=\"4456\">\n<p data-start=\"4400\" data-end=\"4456\">Offer durable chew toys designed for teething puppies.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4457\" data-end=\"4522\">\n<p data-start=\"4459\" data-end=\"4522\">Frozen carrots or puppy-safe teething treats can soothe gums.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4523\" data-end=\"4593\">\n<p data-start=\"4525\" data-end=\"4593\">Puzzle feeders or interactive toys keep their mind and mouth busy.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"4595\" data-end=\"4703\">By giving your puppy something appropriate to chew on, you reduce the temptation of unsafe outdoor snacks.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4705\" data-end=\"4708\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"4710\" data-end=\"4750\">Could It Be a Sign of Pica in Dogs?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4752\" data-end=\"4971\"><strong data-start=\"4752\" data-end=\"4760\">Pica<\/strong> is a condition where dogs eat non-food items compulsively. In puppies, pica can sometimes just be a phase, but it may also point to medical concerns such as anemia, gastrointestinal problems, or malnutrition.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4973\" data-end=\"5147\">If your puppy <strong data-start=\"4987\" data-end=\"5046\">consistently eats dirt, rocks, or other strange objects<\/strong>, it\u2019s worth asking your vet about bloodwork or a dietary evaluation to rule out underlying issues.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5149\" data-end=\"5152\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"5154\" data-end=\"5179\">When to Call the Vet<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5181\" data-end=\"5223\">You should contact your veterinarian if:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5224\" data-end=\"5453\">\n<li data-start=\"5224\" data-end=\"5271\">\n<p data-start=\"5226\" data-end=\"5271\">Your puppy swallowed a rock or large stick.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5272\" data-end=\"5325\">\n<p data-start=\"5274\" data-end=\"5325\">Your puppy is vomiting, lethargic, or not eating.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5326\" data-end=\"5389\">\n<p data-start=\"5328\" data-end=\"5389\">Your puppy repeatedly eats non-food items despite training.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5390\" data-end=\"5453\">\n<p data-start=\"5392\" data-end=\"5453\">You suspect nutritional deficiencies or digestive problems.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5455\" data-end=\"5588\">It\u2019s always better to be cautious. Many puppies end up needing urgent care because a \u201csmall pebble\u201d turned into a serious blockage.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5590\" data-end=\"5593\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"5595\" data-end=\"5603\">FAQ<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5605\" data-end=\"5823\"><strong data-start=\"5605\" data-end=\"5646\">Why does my puppy eat dirt and grass?<\/strong><br data-start=\"5646\" data-end=\"5649\" \/>It\u2019s usually curiosity or taste, though sometimes it\u2019s linked to boredom or mild nutrient interest. Grass eating is common, but swallowing large amounts of dirt isn\u2019t safe.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5825\" data-end=\"5970\"><strong data-start=\"5825\" data-end=\"5868\">Will my puppy grow out of eating rocks?<\/strong><br data-start=\"5868\" data-end=\"5871\" \/>Many puppies outgrow it as they mature, but training and supervision are crucial in the meantime.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5972\" data-end=\"6145\"><strong data-start=\"5972\" data-end=\"6018\">What if my puppy swallowed a small pebble?<\/strong><br data-start=\"6018\" data-end=\"6021\" \/>Call your vet for guidance. Sometimes small pebbles pass, but it depends on size and symptoms. Never assume it\u2019s harmless.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6147\" data-end=\"6340\"><strong data-start=\"6147\" data-end=\"6192\">Is it safe for puppies to chew on sticks?<\/strong><br data-start=\"6192\" data-end=\"6195\" \/>Chewing can be okay if you supervise, but sticks splinter easily and swallowing pieces can cause harm. Safer chew alternatives are recommended.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6342\" data-end=\"6535\"><strong data-start=\"6342\" data-end=\"6400\">How do I stop my puppy from eating everything outside?<\/strong><br data-start=\"6400\" data-end=\"6403\" \/>Supervision, training commands like \u201cleave it,\u201d removing tempting items, and offering plenty of safe toys are the best strategies.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6559\" data-end=\"6851\">It\u2019s common for puppies to eat rocks, sticks, or dirt, but it\u2019s not safe. What starts as curiosity or teething can quickly turn into a health emergency. By supervising your puppy, teaching \u201cleave it,\u201d removing temptations, and offering safe alternatives, you can protect your pup from harm.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6853\" data-end=\"7092\">And remember: if your puppy swallows something they shouldn\u2019t, call your veterinarian right away. With patience, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/puppy-trainer\">puppy training<\/a><\/span>, and a little prevention, most puppies grow out of this risky phase and learn what\u2019s safe to chew \u2014 and what\u2019s not.<\/p>\n<!--[if lt IE 9]><script>document.createElement('audio');<\/script><![endif]-->\n<audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-17351-1\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a?_=1\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a\">https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a<\/a><\/audio>\n<h3 data-start=\"7576\" data-end=\"7805\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/infos\/about\">About Petworks<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-7722\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Dr-Marty-Goldstein-Natures-Blend-Petworks-Nutrition.png\" alt=\"Dr Marty Goldstein Nature's Blend - Petworks Nutrition\" width=\"111\" height=\"109\" \/>In 2021, Dr. <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/dr-marty-goldstein-of-petworks\/\">Marty Goldstein DVM<\/a><\/span> joined the pet care platform Petworks as an advisor in its <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/animal-nutritionist\">Animal Nutrition<\/a><\/span>\u00a0care division. Dr Marty Nature&#8217;s Blend is\u00a0on a mission to help your pets live their healthiest lives possible.\u00a0Dr. Marty\u2019s pet nutrition expertise and guidance has helped Petworks evolve and become the preeminent animal and pet nutrition consultation service for pet\u00a0parents in North America.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-8658\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/William-Bishop-Jr-Petworks-Pet-Nutrition.png\" alt=\"Bill Bishop Blue Buffalo Pet Nutrition\" width=\"96\" height=\"99\" \/>In 2022, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/blue-buffalo-dog-food\/\">Blue Buffalo<\/a><\/span> Founder Bill Bishop Jr. joined Petworks as Senior Advisor in our Animal Nutrition Care Division. Bill brings his extensive expertise in pet food innovation and business leadership. His guidance helps Petworks enhance our pet nutrition service offerings, helping to ensure that pet parents throughout the world receive trusted, science-backed nutritional support for their dogs, cats, and animals.<\/p>\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">About The Author<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-10642\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Kevin-Kinyon-2025.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"91\" height=\"108\" \/><\/em>Petworks<\/span><\/a> Co-Founder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kinyonkevin\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Kevin Kinyon<\/span><\/a> is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Why Does My Puppy Eat Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt? Causes, Dangers, and How to Stop It. If you\u2019ve ever looked out into your yard and caught your puppy chomping on a rock, dragging around a stick, or digging up dirt to eat, you\u2019re not alone. Many puppies go through this phase, and while it can &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/why-does-my-puppy-eat-dirt\/\" class=\"more-link\">Read More<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;Why Does My Puppy Eat Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt?&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":17363,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[115,132,140],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17351","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-animal-behavior-help","category-dog-training-advice","category-puppy-training-tips"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.3.1 (Yoast SEO v25.3.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Why Does My Puppy Eat Rocks, Sticks, or Dirt?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Worried about your puppy eating rocks, sticks, or dirt? 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