How to train a dog not to eat bathroom trash, toilet paper

Why Dogs Eat Toilet Paper and How to Stop It: A Guide for Pet Owners

As a dog owner, you know that your furry friend can have some odd habits. One moment, they're fetching sticks like the well-trained pup they are, and the next, they're chomping down on a roll of toilet paper like it's the tastiest snack in town. It’s a weird, messy, and often frustrating behavior, but believe it or not, your dog’s obsession with toilet paper may be more common than you think.

So why do dogs eat toilet paper? And more importantly, how can we stop them from making a mess of our bathrooms? In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind this puzzling behavior, how to prevent it, and what to do if your dog has already taken a bite out of the roll.

Why Do Dogs Eat Toilet Paper?

First things first: there are several reasons why your dog might be indulging in this strange habit. Some are behavioral, others medical, but all of them require a little understanding and effort to fix.

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1. Curiosity and Teething in Puppies

For puppies, eating toilet paper is often a part of their natural curiosity. Just like babies put everything in their mouths, puppies do the same. They explore the world with their senses, and unfortunately, this can lead them to chew on things that aren’t meant to be chewed—like your toilet paper. If your puppy is teething, the paper might also provide some temporary relief. That soft, tearable texture can be comforting on sore gums, much like a teething ring for a baby.

2. Anxiety or Stress

Dogs, much like humans, can suffer from anxiety. Whether it’s separation anxiety when you leave them alone, or general stress from a new environment, chewing on toilet paper can be a self-soothing behavior. If your dog is chewing paper or shredding it across the floor in response to stress, it’s their way of dealing with nerves.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies (Pica)

In some cases, your dog may not be getting the right nutrients in their diet, which could trigger a condition known as "pica." This disorder causes dogs (and even humans) to crave non-food items. If your dog is lacking certain minerals like iron or zinc, they might turn to toilet paper or other non-food substances to satisfy their cravings. If you notice your dog eating toilet paper regularly, it might be worth having their diet checked by your vet to make sure they’re getting everything they need.

4. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation

Dogs, especially high-energy breeds, can get bored easily. If they’re not getting enough mental or physical stimulation, they might look for their own entertainment. And what's easier to tear up than a roll of toilet paper sitting there all innocent and fun-looking? If your dog is bored, they might just be looking for something to do, and that toilet paper roll seems like a perfect target.

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5. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Let’s face it—dogs are smart. And they know that chewing on toilet paper will get a reaction from you. Whether you’re scolding them or chasing them down to grab the roll out of their mouth, to a dog, that’s attention. In some cases, this behavior becomes a learned tactic to get noticed, even if the attention is negative.

How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Toilet Paper

Okay, so now we know why they’re doing it. The next question is: how do we stop them from eating toilet paper in the first place? It’s a tough habit to break, but it’s not impossible. Here’s a step-by-step plan to help curb this behavior.

1. Clean Up Their Environment

The first step in stopping this behavior is making sure your dog can’t get to toilet paper in the first place. Hide extra rolls in cabinets with child locks or store them out of reach. If you can, keep the bathroom door closed when you’re not home, and put trash cans behind closed doors or with secure lids. Dogs are often attracted to toilet paper rolls because they’re fun to shred, so investing in a toilet paper dispenser that makes it harder for them to access the paper might save you a lot of hassle.

2. Provide More Physical and Mental Stimulation

Sometimes, dogs chew on things because they have too much energy or are simply bored. If your dog is always looking for something to do, you’re going to have to step up your game. Increase their exercise by taking them on longer walks, playing tug-of-war, or introducing them to dog sports like agility or scent work. A tired dog is a good dog—and a less likely toilet paper thief.

3. Teach Basic Obedience Commands

Basic training is your best friend when it comes to preventing bad habits. Commands like "leave it" or "drop it" can be life-savers. When you catch your dog with toilet paper in their mouth, immediately command them to "leave it," and offer a toy as a reward. The goal is to show your dog that there are better, more appropriate things to chew on than your toilet paper. Positive reinforcement works wonders in redirecting bad behavior.

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4. Offer Chew Toys as Distractions

Rather than punishing your dog for chewing on paper, provide them with acceptable alternatives. Chew toys, treat-dispensing toys, or even a bone can redirect their attention from the toilet paper roll to something that’s designed for chewing. And don’t forget to praise your dog when they choose the right toy. They need to learn that toys get them more attention than toilet paper does.

5. Consult a Veterinarian if Necessary

If you’ve tried everything and your dog’s obsession with toilet paper is still going strong, it may be time to consult a vet. Some medical conditions, like gastrointestinal problems, worms, or even diabetes, can lead to a dog’s desire to eat non-food items. It’s always best to rule out health issues before assuming it’s purely behavioral. A quick check-up can save you a lot of worry and potential costly treatments down the road.

The Health Risks of Eating Toilet Paper

It’s easy to laugh off a dog that’s gone to town on the bathroom roll, but this behavior can actually be harmful to your dog’s health. While toilet paper isn’t toxic, it can still cause serious digestive problems. In some cases, ingesting toilet paper can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting as your dog’s digestive system tries to process the paper.

Even worse, toilet paper can cause blockages in your dog’s intestines, which may require surgery to remove. If you notice signs like bloating, pain, weight loss, or your dog refusing to eat, it could indicate a blockage. In these situations, prompt medical attention is essential.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Dog Safe and Happy

Toilet paper may seem like a harmless chew toy, but it’s one that can lead to bigger problems for your dog. Whether it’s due to curiosity, anxiety, boredom, or a nutritional deficiency, this behavior is something that should be addressed sooner rather than later. By understanding why your dog is eating toilet paper and taking steps to prevent it, you’ll not only keep your home cleaner but also ensure that your dog remains healthy and happy.

Remember, a well-fed, exercised, and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to resort to bad habits. So keep those bathroom doors closed, your trash cans secured, and your pup entertained. With a little patience and some proactive training, you can help your dog break the toilet paper habit and live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Thanks for your reading.

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