Dogs and eating sticks

[LennyBalls]

Hi all, bit of advice please, I am walking my friends dog while she is at work and I work from home and I go for a walk every day anyway.

It's a Jackapoo and so adorable and actually quite well behaved for a puppy. He's about 9 months old.

The issue is when I am walking him he keeps picking up small sticks and eating them. He actually chews them right down and swallows them.

My friend has no plans for puppy training classes so I have been bringing doggy treats out with me to entice away from the sticks. It's not working.

Is it normal for puppies to actually eat and swallow sticks ? There was an incident last week where a bit of a stick was stuck in his mouth.

Any advice?

Dogs might want to chew and eat sticks, but they really shouldn't be doing it. They can choke or get bits stuck in their throat. Your friend could end up with a very poorly (or worse) dog and/or a huge vet's bill.

It's normal for them to want to, but it really shouldn't be encouraged. If he swallows a sharp enough bit it could perforate his stomach or intestines and kill him.

https://www.vets-now.com/2020/06/stick-almost-kills-dog/

https://www.express.co.uk/news/nature/825088/dog-almost-die-swallow-sticks-pet-owner-warning-injury

https://www.directlinegroup.co.uk/en/news/brand-news/2019/18102019.html

A few examples here. If the dog can't be trusted then I would recommend muzzle training but I appreciate it's not that easy when it's not your dog.

God love dogs! The only way to get around this is for you to be preemptive. Every time his nose goes down, gently move him away and offer a treat.