Can Dogs Eat Sticks? What You Need to Know

Dogs are known for their love of chewing on just about anything they can get their paws on, including sticks. But can dogs eat sticks? While it may seem harmless, the truth is that sticks can pose a number of risks to your canine companion.

The gut is a crucial part of a dog’s immune system, making gut health vital to their overall well-being. This is why it’s important to ensure that your dog’s diet includes probiotic soft chews to promote healthy digestion. However, even with a healthy gut, sticks can still cause problems for your pup.

To get the lowdown on what could happen if your dog eats sticks, we consulted several expert veterinary sources on foreign body ingestion in canines. Here’s everything you need to know about your dog eating sticks.

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If your dog has a habit of chewing on sticks, it’s important to redirect their attention to safe, appropriate chew toys. There are many chew toys on the market that are designed specifically for dogs, and these toys are much safer and healthier than sticks.

But before we get into the dangers of stick eating, let’s look at why dogs love eating sticks so much.

Why Do Dogs Chew Sticks?

Dogs have a natural urge to chew on things, and sticks are no exception. There are several reasons why dogs may chew on sticks, including boredom, using sticks as toys, teething, interesting scents, destructive chewing, compulsive habits like Pica, attention seeking, and learned behavior. Some theories suggest that dogs chew sticks to clean their teeth or as a response to tooth pain.

Read this article for a full breakdown on why dogs love sticks.

However, it’s important to note that chewing on sticks can pose a danger to dogs. Splinters can cause injuries in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract, and some types of wood can be toxic. Additionally, sticks can break apart and cause choking hazards.

Despite the potential risks, some dogs continue to chew on sticks. This behavior may be reinforced if the dog receives attention in the form of an owner shouting at them (any attention can be good attention sometimes). Owners should discourage their dogs from chewing on sticks and provide safe and appropriate chew toys instead.

How Dogs Start Eating Sticks

According to Dr. Katherine Houpt DVM, chewing on random stuff is almost like a rite of passage for puppies — it’s super common and kind of normal. Think of it as a way for your puppy to explore the world around them. They chew to figure out what things are hard, what can be easily broken, what tastes good, and what doesn’t. While some people think it’s tied to teething, that’s still up for debate.

Interestingly, most puppies learn the difference between chewing and swallowing. They’ll munch on things but usually don’t eat them. However, there’s a small group of dogs that will actually eat the stuff they chew on. Dr. Houpt mentioned an Airedale pup who had two surgeries before turning one because it swallowed things it shouldn’t have!

Eating Sticks May be a Way of Using Tools for Dogs

The article from Frontiers in Psychology argues that dogs chewing on sticks may represent a form of tool use, based on a definition of tool use that involves using an object unattached to the environment to modify a condition in the user. In the case of dogs, they chew sticks possibly to relieve tooth pain or to clean their teeth. The dogs often hold the stick between their front paws to stabilize it and chew in a way that seems to target specific teeth, suggesting intentional behavior rather than random chewing. The paper posits that this behavior has been largely overlooked as a form of tool use due to assumptions about dogs’ cognitive abilities and because stick chewing is a common and unremarkable behavior.

Some Dog Breeds are More Likely to Eat Sticks or Foreign Objects than Others

Another study found that dogs and cats have a high rate of recovery from swallowing foreign objects, with a 94% survival rate in dogs when the object is a discrete foreign body, such as a stick. However, the study points out that certain dog breeds, namely:

• English Bull Terriers; 
• Springer Spaniels; 
• Staffordshire Bull Terriers; 
• Border Collies; and
• Jack Russell Terriers, are more prone to chewing and swallowing such objects, leading to gastrointestinal obstructions. 

Factors that significantly increased mortality (whether dogs died) included:

• A longer duration of clinical signs; 
• The presence of a linear foreign body (like string, yarn, or socks); and 
• Undergoing multiple intestinal procedures.

While the survival rates were generally high, it’s noteworthy that the type of foreign body and the breed of the dog can impact the outcome. The study suggests that linear foreign bodies, like string or fabric, are associated with lower survival rates (80% in dogs) compared to discrete foreign bodies. However, neither the degree of obstruction nor the location of the foreign body in the gastrointestinal tract significantly influenced survival rates. 

This highlights the importance of early intervention and awareness, especially among owners of breeds that are more prone to this behavior of eating foreign objects like sticks. 

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8 Potential Risks of Dogs Eating Sticks

Dogs are known for their natural instinct to chew on things, including sticks. While it may seem harmless, there are potential risks associated with dogs eating sticks. Here are some of the risks to be aware of:

1. Choking Hazard

Sticks can easily break into small pieces, which can become lodged in a dog’s throat and cause choking. This can be a life-threatening emergency, and immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

2. Damage to Teeth and Mouth from Chewing Sticks

Chewing on sticks may seem like a natural and harmless activity for dogs, but it can lead to dental problems that can be both painful and costly to address. Sticks can cause the teeth to wear down prematurely, potentially leading to sensitivity and other dental issues. 

More severely, the hard and sometimes jagged nature of sticks can lead to fractures or chips in the teeth, which are not only painful but can also expose the tooth’s pulp, making it vulnerable to infection. Additionally, splinters from the stick can become lodged in a dog’s gums, leading to inflammation and the possibility of infection.

3. Danger from Poisonous Trees

While many trees are harmless, some types of wood can be toxic to dogs. Sticks from trees like the Black Walnut, Yew, and Cherry can pose a significant health risk if chewed or ingested. These sticks can contain toxins that may lead to symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to more severe issues like liver damage or even death. It’s important for dog owners to be aware of the types of trees in their area and to prevent their dogs from chewing on sticks from trees that are known to be toxic.

4. Chemicals and Pathogens on Sticks

Even if a stick comes from a non-toxic tree, it can still pose risks due to chemicals and pathogens. Pesticides or herbicides used in treating the tree or surrounding grass can reside on the stick, posing a risk if ingested. 

Similarly, sticks found outdoors can be contaminated with fungi, bacteria, or parasites, which could lead to infections or illnesses. In some cases, sticks found near roads or industrial areas may even be contaminated with pollutants. Therefore, it’s crucial for dog owners to be mindful of where their dogs are sourcing their sticks and to consider safer alternativ-e-archives like vet-approved chew toys.

5. Internal Injuries

If a dog swallows a stick, it can cause internal injuries as it passes through the digestive system. Sharp splinters can puncture the stomach or intestines, leading to serious health complications.

6. Damaged Gut Lining or Irritated and Inflamed Gut Lining

Sticks can also cause damage to a dog’s gut lining or irritate and inflame the gut lining, leading to digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, this can lead to more serious health problems.

7. Infections

Bacteria and other harmful organisms can be present on sticks, which can lead to infections if a dog chews on them. This can cause a range of health problems, from mild to severe.

8. Obstructions in the Gut

If a dog swallows a stick that is too large to pass through the digestive system, it can cause an obstruction. This can be a life-threatening emergency, and immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

Alternatives to Sticks for Chewing

Dogs love to chew, but sticks can be dangerous for them to chew on. Fortunately, there are many safe alternativ-e-archives to sticks that dogs can enjoy. Here are some options to consider:

Dog Chew Toys

Dog chew toys are a great alternativ-e-archive to sticks. They come in many different shapes and sizes, so you can find one that is perfect for your dog. Some chew toys are made of rubber, while others are made of nylon or other materials. Look for toys that are durable and can withstand your dog’s chewing.

Dental Chews

Dental chews are another option for dogs who like to chew. These chews are designed to help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath. They come in many different flavors and sizes, so you can find one that your dog will love. Look for chews that are made of natural ingredients and are easy to digest.

Natural Alternatives

There are many natural alternativ-e-archives to sticks that dogs can chew on. Some dogs enjoy chewing on bones, while others prefer antlers or horns. You can also give your dog rawhide chews or pig ears. Just be sure to supervise your dog while they are chewing to make sure they don’t swallow any large pieces.

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When to Seek Veterinary Help

While it is generally safe for dogs to chew on sticks, there are some situations where seeking veterinary help is necessary. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Choking or Obstruction

If a dog swallows a stick that is too big or gets stuck in their throat, it can cause choking or obstruction. Signs of choking or obstruction include coughing, gagging, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog has swallowed a stick and is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek veterinary help immediately.

2. Digestive Issues

Dogs that ingest sticks may experience digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, or stomach upset. While these symptoms may resolve on their own, it is important to monitor your dog and seek veterinary help if the symptoms persist or worsen.

3. Mouth or Throat Injuries

Chewing on sticks can cause injuries to a dog’s mouth or throat, such as cuts, abrasions, or puncture wounds. If you notice your dog is bleeding from their mouth or is having difficulty eating or drinking, seek veterinary help.

4. Behavioral Changes

If your dog is acting lethargic, has a decreased appetite, or is experiencing any other behavioral changes after chewing on a stick, it may be a sign of an underlying issue. It is important to seek veterinary help to rule out any potential health problems.

In summary, while it is generally safe for dogs to chew on sticks, it is important to monitor your dog and seek veterinary help if any of the above signs or symptoms occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

In conclusion, while dogs may enjoy chewing on sticks, it is not recommended to allow them to do so. Sticks can pose a choking hazard and can also cause damage to a dog’s teeth and gums. Additionally, sticks can splinter and cause internal damage if ingested.

It is important for dog owners to provide their pets with safe and appropriate chew toys to satisfy their natural chewing instincts. This can help prevent destructive chewing behaviors and keep dogs entertained and happy.

If a dog does happen to ingest a stick, it is important to monitor them closely for any signs of discomfort or illness. Contacting a veterinarian may also be necessary to ensure the dog’s health and safety.

Overall, while sticks may seem like a harmless and natural chew toy for dogs, it is best to avoid them and opt for safer alternativ-e-archives.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.