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My dog keeps eating rocks in the yard. Should I be worried about him?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 3 months old | 70 lbs

I saw my dog chewing on a small rock in my yard a couple weeks ago and I took it out of his mouth and told him “no”. But just the other day I caught him literally eating a rock, he swallowed it and all, he’s pretty destructive so he can’t be in the house all day he is in the backyard a lot, should I be worried? He’s surrounded by rocks at least 8 hours a day

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Megan, DVM, CVA

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on May 22nd, 2018

Unfortunately, rocks of certain sized can get stuck in the GI tract and cause an obstruction so just watch him closely. An obstruction will usually cause vomiting and a lack of appetite. I actually had to surgically remove a rock from my own personal dog. Silly dogs will eat anything. Since he has a tendency to eat rocks, I would consider putting him in a crate when you aren't able to supervise him outside for his safety. I understand this may not be possible, just understand that he could obstruct if he eats a rock that is too large. In the meantime, I would feed him a high fiber canned food for a couple of days to help him pass this rock. I hope this helps!
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