Sock it to You: Preventing and Addressing Why Your Dog Eats Socks

Dogs can get into some odd habits, and one of the strangest (and most frustrating) is eating socks. It might seem funny or quirky at first, but this behavior can pose serious health risks. In this blog, we’ll dive into why dogs love to munch on socks and how you can keep your furry friend safe from this dangerous habit.

What’s the Big Deal?

While it might seem harmless for your dog to nibble on a sock, swallowing it can lead to severe complications. Socks can get stuck in your dog’s digestive tract, leading to blockages. Symptoms of a blockage include: vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and difficulty passing stool. If you suspect your dog has swallowed a sock, contact your vet immediately. Surgery might be required to remove the object, especially if it doesn’t pass naturally.

The Reasons Why Dogs Eat Socks

  • Curiosity and Playfulness: Puppies and even adult dogs love to explore their environment through their mouths. Socks, with their soft texture and the scent of their favorite person, can be irresistible toys. A playful pup might grab a sock, intending to play, but end up swallowing it by mistake.

  • Boredom: If your dog isn’t getting enough mental or physical stimulation, they might resort to chewing or eating objects like socks. Boredom-driven behaviors are common, especially if dogs are left alone for long periods or don’t have enough activities to keep them busy.

  • Teething: Just like babies, puppies experience discomfort during the teething process. Chewing on soft fabrics like socks can help soothe their aching gums. However, this can easily turn into swallowing if they get too carried away.

  • Anxiety and Stress: Some dogs may chew or eat socks as a way of coping with anxiety, especially if they experience separation anxiety. Chewing on something that smells like their owner can provide comfort when they’re feeling stressed.

  • Pica: Pica is a condition where dogs (and other animals) eat non-food objects. This could be due to a nutritional deficiency, an underlying medical issue, or simply compulsive behavior. If your dog is consistently eating socks or other non-food items, it’s a good idea to consult a vet to rule out any health concerns.

Prevention is Possible

Make sure your dog has access to safe and stimulating chew toys. Toys that satisfy their urge to chew or help with teething can redirect their attention away from socks and other inappropriate items. And as simple as it sounds, keeping socks (and other small items) out of your dog’s reach is the easiest way to prevent them from becoming a snack. Use hampers with lids, and teach family members to pick up after themselves.

Perhaps most importantly, it is helpful to increase physical and mental stimulation. Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation through activities like fetch, puzzle toys, and obedience training. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. At Beds-N-Biscuits, we offer stimulating daycare, Ultimate Daycare, grooming, and boarding services that give dogs the exercise and attention they need to stay mentally and physically stimulated. And we offer a variety of puzzles and toys for sale in our shop that you can pick up next time you’re in to see us!

A Well-Trained Dog is a Safer Dog

Teaching your dog basic commands like “leave it” and “drop it” can be lifesaving. If your dog picks up a sock, being able to command them to release it will prevent ingestion and reinforce good behavior. In addition to the training provided in Ultimate Daycare, we also recently launched our BNB Training Academy that can tackle a variety of behavioral challenges. If your dog tends to eat socks due to anxiety, working with a trainer can address the root of the issue. Calming products, increased interaction, or crate training can help reduce anxiety-driven behaviors.

While dogs eating socks may seem like a harmless quirk, it can lead to serious health problems. By understanding why dogs engage in this behavior and taking preventative measures, you can protect your furry friend from unnecessary risks. If you ever suspect your dog has swallowed something dangerous, always consult with your vet.