Why Does My Dog Eat My Underwear? If you are also here with the same question. You are not alone as most dog owners are confused about this behavior of dogs. Not only is this behaviour disgusting but it can be dangerous for dogs too as sometimes it can be full of germs and have our pee drops stuck etc. So, why do dogs do so?? In this article, we will discuss everything in detail about dog-licking underwear and how to stop it from doing so.
Why Does My Dog Eat My Underwear?
Why do dogs choose only underwear for chewing as they can choose other clothes? To understand better let’s break down the potential causes of this behavior below!
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1. Your Dog Might Have Pica
If you see your dog eating or chewing your underwear it can be due to pica. Then the question arises What is Pica? When a dog starts chewing or eating things with non-nutritional value is due to pica. Pica is generally caused by digestive distress or a stomach disorder.
If your dog has pica he will literally eat or chew anything like rocks, paper, sticks, etc. In pica, your dog starts chewing and licking whatever it finds on the ground so detection is quite easy. If you see your dog chewing or eating strange things must visit the vet and check for pic and get your dog proper treatment.
2. Your Dog Wants Your Attention
Dogs are really attached to their owner so they will always want their attention. So, if you don’t give him a proper time or you are out of the home he will seek your presence from the scent of your things like clothes, shoes, socks, etc. While doing so if he found your underwear he might chew or eat that.
3. Your Pup is teething
When your pup is between 3 to 7 weeks old teeth come out from its gum and when it becomes 4-7-month-old he loses puppy teeth and gets new ones. In Puppies teething is very uncomfortable and itchy. During this period chewing gives him relief and the puppy will chew anything including your underwear. There are some toys available for dogs like teethers.
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4. Your Furry Friend is Bored
Dogs can get bored easily when left alone and will start chewing anything they find like underwear, socks, shoes, or even furniture. So, it’s necessary to take your dog for a walk or exercise and provide him with toys to play with. Also, don’t throw your underwear on the floor.
5. Your Dog is Stressed
Dogs can easily get stressed from surroundings or any tense situation in the home. For example, if you come late from the office and will be unable to give your dog proper time or an outing for a walk. These small things make your dog stressed and it will start chewing anything he found or the thing which has your scent.
How to Stop My Dog From Eating My Underwear
As we have discussed in detail about dog-eating underwear. Now let’s see how we can stop them
- Test your Dog for PICA: If you notice your dog chewing on everything they find, take them to the vet to test for PICA
- Give Your Dog Toys: Provide your dog with teething toys during the teething to relieve pain and prevent it from chewing anything.
- Take Your Dog for a Walk: Make sure to take your dog for daily walks or let them play in the garden for regular exercise.
- Don’t throw your Things: Always make this a rule that you won’t throw your underwear or socks on the floor.
- Dog Routine: Consistency is key for your dog’s happiness and health, Always make sure to feed them on time, take them for walks, and play with them regularly.
- Never Scold Your Pet: Never scold your dog as it can lead to depression and aggressive behavior in dogs. Always use positive reinforcement to encourage your dog.
Besides this make sure to train your dog with commands like drop it or love it to control the underwear-eating habit. We have tried to cover every aspect of Why Does My Dog Eat My Underwear? and How to Stop My Dog From Eating My Underwear, will look for more and add that in the next update. Did you find this article helpful do tell us in the comment section below.
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FAQS: Why Does My Dog Chew on My Underwear and Socks?
Still not satisfied? Here are some frequently asked questions
My Dog Ate My Underwear – What Should I Do?
If your dog has developed the habit of eating or chewing underwear first train it with commands like leave it or drop it and follow these things
- Test your Dog for PICA
- Give Your Dog Toys to play especially while teething
- Take Your Dog for a Walk regularly
- Don’t throw your things on the floor.
- Always make sure to feed your dog on time and take it regularly.
- Never scold your pet and always Encourage him.
Should I Worry If My Dog Starts Eating Socks And Underwear?
If you have noticed that your dog has frequently developed the habit of eating and chewing the underwear follow the above-mentioned steps to stop him. If he is not stopping take your dog to the vet for medical issues like nutritional deficiencies.
Why does my dog lick the clothes I’m wearing?
Dogs will mostly lick your clothes for Taste and Sensation.