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Why Dogs Love Chewing Sticks
from: Kyle BesserFrom the time they are puppies, most dogs are attracted to sticks more than most objects they come across. This is partly because wood is easy to chew, but it is also because of their shape. Sticks look similar to bones. Bones are what dogs would be eating if we didn't feed them. Dogs like the meaty flavors of bones, and the marrow inside is an excellent source of nutrients.
Sticks don't taste at all like bones, and dogs know the difference. Sticks have their own appeal. They have a musky, earthy taste that seems to appeal to dogs, and dogs can find sticks just about anywhere.
Veterinarians worry about dogs chewing sticks because dogs will occasionally swallow what they chew. A mouthful of splinters isn't likely to cause problems, but swallowing a large chunk of a stick may. While some dogs do get overeager and swallow pieces of sticks, most just chew and spit out the pieces. To help keep your dog safe, here are a few things to watch for.
1. Clear your yard of fruit branches. Dogs aren't very selective about the types of sticks they chew. This can be a problem if you have apple, pear or other fruit trees. Their wood has a rich, aromatic taste that dogs like, but their wood also contains small amounts of toxins that can upset a dog's stomach.
2. Other types of wood can also make dogs sick. Branches from azaleas and trees such as black walnut, black cherry, red oak, black locust, yew and red maple contain substantial amounts of poison. Dogs who chew enough of their wood can get very ill. If you are not sure what type of wood your dog is chewing, keep it out of reach until you can make sure it is not one of the hazardous varieties.
3. Limit the size of sticks. If your dog chews sticks, make sure they're too big to fit all the way in his mouth. Smaller sticks can get stuck in the dog's mouth. More than a few dogs have found themselves with their jaws locked open because a stick got wedged inside. Big sticks have a way of turning into lots of little sticks, however. Once piles of debris begin accumulating, you'll want to clean them up before your dog has a chance to put them back into his mouth.
4. Make sure your dog is not swallowing pieces of wood. Most dogs just chomp and shred their sticks and leave the pieces on the ground around them. They don't actually swallow much. Some dogs, however, swallow what they chew. Besides the risk of choking or intestinal blockages, dogs who actually eat sticks sometimes use them in place of regular food.
5. Dogs, especially puppies, have an innate urge to chew. Supply your dog with alternatives to sticks to satisfy that urge to chew. Chew bones and toys are a much better alternative to satisfying your dog's urge to chew than sticks. Providing your dog with chew treats and toys will help keep him away from items you don't want him to chew on.
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