Why Do Dogs Eat Underwear? A Common but Concerning Behavior
Many dog owners are taken aback when they discover that their furry friend has chewed or swallowed an item as unusual—and concerning—as underwear. While it may seem bizarre or humorous, this behavior is surprisingly common and can pose serious health risks to pets.
Understanding the Behavior
Dogs are naturally curious and explore their environment with their mouths. Several reasons contribute to their tendency to chew or eat underwear:
- Smell Attraction: Underwear carries the owner's scent, which can be very comforting or appealing to dogs due to their strong sense of smell.
- Anxiety or Stress: Dogs with separation anxiety or general stress may chew on personal items, like underwear, as a coping mechanism.
- Pica: This is a behavioral condition where animals eat non-food items. It can stem from nutritional deficiencies or psychological issues.
- Teething and Chewing Needs: Puppies chew on various items, including clothes, as a part of their teething phase or exploratory behavior.
- Boredom: Dogs left alone or under-stimulated often engage in destructive behaviors, including chewing clothing.
How Common Is This?
Veterinarians and pet behaviorists report that eating underwear or socks is one of the more frequent foreign body ingestion incidents treated at animal clinics. While no exact statistics exist, anecdotal evidence and veterinary case studies indicate that many dogs—especially puppies and certain breeds with compulsive tendencies—engage in this behavior.
Health Risks Involved
While chewing might seem harmless, swallowing underwear can lead to serious medical issues:
- Intestinal Blockages: This is the most severe risk. Ingested fabric can cause digestion to stop or the intestines to twist, requiring emergency surgery.
- Choking Hazard: Large or bunched fabric can cause breathing difficulties.
- Stomach Irritation: Even if passed naturally, fabric can irritate the gastrointestinal lining.
If your dog ingests underwear and shows symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain, seek veterinary help immediately.
Which Dogs Are Most Susceptible?
While any dog can engage in this behavior, certain factors increase the likelihood:
- Puppies: They are more curious and prone to chewing as part of growing up.
- Anxious Breeds: Dogs prone to separation anxiety or stress, like Border Collies or German Shepherds.
- Dogs Left Alone Frequently: Lack of interaction or exercise fosters boredom-related behaviors.
Preventing This Behavior
Prevention is crucial to protect your pet’s health:
- Secure Laundry: Keep dirty clothes in closed hampers or out of reach.
- Provide Stimulation: Offer safe chew toys and ensure regular physical and mental exercise.
- Training: Use commands like "leave it" and positive reinforcement to deter unwanted behaviors.
- Address Anxiety: Consult with a pet behaviorist or vet if your dog shows persistent anxiety-related behaviors.
- Regular Vet Checkups: These can help identify nutritional deficiencies or pica symptoms.
When to See a Vet
Immediate veterinary attention is needed if your dog:
- Is vomiting or retching
- Has lethargy or loss of interest in food
- Shows signs of abdominal pain (whining, restlessness, hunching back)
- Stops defecating or has diarrhea
The Takeaway
While it might be easy to laugh off, dogs eating underwear is a behavior that raises both behavioral and medical red flags. It’s relatively common, particularly in younger or anxious dogs, and always requires attention. Preventive care, behavioral training, and veterinary advice are your best tools to keep your dog safe—and your laundry intact.
