Chewing/Gnawing in Dogs
When to visit the vet?
Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days
ORANGE in case of self-injury, bloody spots, severe restlessness, swelling of the face or neck, vomiting, or breathing problems (possible allergic reaction).
Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity
Definition
Chewing/gnawing in dogs is a behavior in which the dog chews or gnaws on specific areas of its body, often to the point of irritating or injuring the skin. This behavior can indicate physical or psychological causes and requires careful observation and, if necessary, veterinary examination.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
- Atopic Dermatitis (Chronic Inflammation of the skin)
- Flea infestation with Ctenocephalides species (Parasitic infection with fleas)
- Grass Pollen Allergy (Hypersensitivity Reaction to Grass Pollen)
- Trichodectes canis Infection (Parasitic Infection with Lice)
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis (Hypersensitivity Reaction to Flea Saliva)
- Food Allergy (Hypersensitivity Reaction to Food)
Basics and possible causes
Chewing/gnawing in dogs is a widespread behavior that can be triggered by a variety of factors. One of the most common reasons is itching, which can be caused by skin irritations, allergies, or parasite infestations such as fleas and mites. Dogs chew/gnaw on the affected areas to relieve the itching.
Another reason for chewing/gnawing can be boredom or stress. Dogs that are not sufficiently mentally or physically stimulated may exhibit this behavior as a form of self-entertainment or soothing. Especially in dogs that are left alone or do not experience enough social interaction, chewing/gnawing can occur for emotional reasons.
Behavioral problems or compulsive disorders are also possible causes. Some dogs develop compulsive behaviors in which they repeatedly chew/gnaw on certain areas without an obvious physical reason. These behaviors can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or changes in the environment.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Skin redness or inflammatory conditions: Redness or skin irritations may be visible in the areas where the dog is chewing/gnawing. These are caused by constant friction and irritation of the skin.
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Hair loss: Constant chewing/gnawing can lead to hair loss in the affected areas. This is especially noticeable in dogs with thick fur.
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Wounds or Crusts: Intense chewing/gnawing can cause wounds that become inflamed or develop crusts. These open areas are susceptible to infections.
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Restlessness or Nervousness: Dogs that chew/gnaw out of stress or boredom may also show other signs of restlessness, such as pacing or whining.
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Increased licking: Chewing/gnawing is often accompanied by increased licking of the affected areas, which can further exacerbate the problem.
When to see a vet?
A veterinarian should be consulted if the chewing/gnawing persists for an extended period or if accompanying symptoms such as severe skin redness, open wounds, or hair loss occur. Veterinary advice is also required if the dog shows signs of discomfort, pain, or behavioral changes.
It is particularly important to react quickly if the chewing/gnawing occurs suddenly or worsens rapidly. This could indicate an acute allergic reaction, parasite infestation, or another serious cause that requires immediate treatment. An early visit to the veterinarian can help identify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure
Pet owners should carefully observe the chewing/gnawing and try to identify patterns or triggers. Note when and under what circumstances the behavior occurs, and whether it is related to specific events or changes in the environment.
The veterinarian will take a thorough medical history and perform a physical examination. They will carefully inspect the affected skin areas and check for signs of parasites, infections, or allergies. Further investigations may also be necessary, such as blood tests, skin biopsies, or allergy tests, to determine the exact cause.
A behavioral analysis may also be necessary to determine whether the chewing/gnawing is due to psychological or emotional factors. The veterinarian can give recommendations for behavior-modifying measures or therapy approaches.
What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options
As a first step to relief, the pet owner should try to keep the affected areas clean and prevent the dog from continuing to chew/gnaw on them. A soft neck collar or special dog protective pants can help restrict access to the affected areas and prevent further damage.
If a parasite infestation is suspected, appropriate antiparasitic agents recommended by the veterinarian should be used. If allergies are suspected, it may be helpful to identify and avoid possible triggers such as certain foods or environmental factors.
Stress reduction and sufficient activity are also important to reduce chewing/gnawing out of boredom or emotional reasons. Regular walks, interactive toys, and social interaction can help to mentally and physically challenge the dog.
In severe or persistent cases, a veterinarian should always be consulted to ensure appropriate treatment and to specifically combat the cause of the chewing/gnawing.
Outlook on current research
Chewing/gnawing in dogs, also referred to as “nibbling,” is a behavior that dogs can exhibit for various reasons. Current research is examining the neurological and behavioral psychology aspects of this symptom. Studies show that chewing/gnawing can often be a sign of stress or boredom. Researchers at the University of Helsinki have found that dogs that frequently chew/gnaw on objects or their own body parts often have higher cortisol levels, which indicates stress. This suggests that chewing/gnawing could be a coping strategy for stressful situations.
Another area of research focuses on the genetic factors that contribute to chewing/gnawing behavior. A study by Cornell University has shown that certain dog breeds are more likely to chew/gnaw on objects due to their genetics. These breeds often have a long history as working or hunting dogs and may exhibit this behavior as a legacy of their ancestors, who had to manipulate objects to perform tasks. Research in this area aims to understand how genetics and environmental factors interact to influence this behavior.
Behavioral researchers are also investigating the role of social interaction in the development of chewing/gnawing behavior. Some studies, including one from the University of Vienna, suggest that dogs that live in social groups or regularly interact with other dogs are less likely to engage in excessive chewing/gnawing. This could indicate that social isolation is a reinforcing factor for this behavior. The researchers hope to positively influence chewing/gnawing behavior through targeted social interactions and play activities.
Another aspect of current research is the investigation of chewing/gnawing behavior as an expression of curiosity and exploratory behavior. Dogs, especially puppies, often explore their environment by chewing/gnawing, which is considered normal and healthy. Researchers at the University of California, Davis, have found that chewing/gnawing in young dogs is often associated with the development of cognitive skills and the exploration of new environments. These findings are being used to develop training programs that promote the natural exploratory behavior of dogs while minimizing unwanted chewing/gnawing.
Nutrition also plays a role in the chewing/gnawing behavior of dogs. A recent study by the University of Liverpool suggests that deficiencies in the diet, particularly a lack of certain minerals and vitamins, can lead to increased chewing/gnawing. The researchers recommend a balanced diet to minimize the risk of nutrition-related chewing/gnawing. They are currently investigating how specific nutrients affect the behavior of dogs and whether dietary adjustments could be an effective intervention against excessive chewing/gnawing.
Finally, some researchers consider chewing/gnawing as a potential sign of underlying health problems. A study by the Royal Veterinary College in London has shown that dogs suffering from chronic pain are more likely to chew/gnaw on their paws or other body parts. This could be an attempt to relieve the discomfort. The researchers are working to develop diagnostic methods to determine when chewing/gnawing is a symptom of a serious health problem and when it is a harmless behavior.