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why is my Australian Shepherd eating dirt?
We adopted a male Aussie in February, he's doing quite well, his coat is shiny, although he's still a bit underweight. But, in the last month he's begun eating dirt...I am a bit concerned, because our other Aussie follows him around and does the same thing. He has had all the necessary shots, but I'm thinking that he may have picked up a parasite. Are there any over the counter parasite preventions that I can p/u to "check" him? I'd hate to take him to a vet for something that I can remedy otherwise. He is EXTREMELY AFRAID when I take him to the vet. I've checked his bowel movements and they are fine.
Asked by
Guest 632985
on Oct 25th 2009
in Worms & Parasites
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Answers
If otherwise he is doing OK, you may be better off leaving well enough alone.
If he is really underweight, not just thinner than many dogs, feed him a little more if he will eat it. If he won't eat more, he may be better off being left too thin even if his ribs show a little.
Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You
should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different.
Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its
food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good
illustrated guide, www.longliveyourdog.com
Aster
answered on 10/25/09.
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I have a purebread Australian Shepherd who does the same thing....I couldnt tell you why but it's annoying. Makes it impossible to leave her alone outside.....until the snow comes. I am hoping that when Spring rolls around she will have gotten out of that bad habit.
Ruby
answered on 10/25/09.
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I have one that has done this since he was a puppy and is 10 now. Mine is also very healthy and has a fine coat. I have had mine checked and passed with flying colors. I just kind of let it go but i do stop him if i see him doing it just because i think it is gross.
Dunkin
answered on 10/25/09.
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parasites I would not think are the cause.
Once bought a pony like that, because the other ponies chased her away from the hay rack.
Then it became a habit. It can kill a horse.
But, i think you should monitor the dog, try squeeking and breaking the habit with toys or real food.
I don't know if it has become a habit or there is a taste the dog has aquired for it.
But, by squeeking or blowing a whistle you can train the dog to stop then come to you for food treat/toy play. Whichever you dog likes the most try that to break the habit.
a once a month preventative is going to be ok for parasites, I use interceptor. They check the poo once then after that once a year check for heart worm to make sure all is well. That can be done when you get the rabies.
Dieta
answered 3 weeks, 6 days ago.
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