If your dog has learned to love chewing or even eating pool noodles, the good news is that you’re not alone. In our article, “Dog Ate Pool Noodle? What to Do + How to Stop It!”, we’ll tackle this issue and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to stop your dog from munching on pool noodles.

We’ll also delve into the reasons why dogs are attracted to these colorful flotation devices and whether it’s a sign of a condition called pica. Furthermore, we’ll discuss what you should do if your dog has already eaten a pool noodle, whether they’re safe for dogs to chew on, and why dogs find pool noodles so irresistible.

Ready to dive into the solution? Keep reading below!

How to Stop Dog Chewing or Eating Pool Noodles

To stop dog eating or chewing pool noodles:

1. Keep pool noodles hidden away or as out of reach as possible.
2. Make sure your dog can always find a safe outlet for chewing such as a toy they have fun playing with.
3. Give a firm, calm “stop” or “no” right away when you notice that your dog is again biting pool noodles.
4. Don’t get mad or scream, because if they’re misbehaving like this due to anxiety (which is extremely likely), this will only make their stress worse.
5. Put them in a brief time-out in a closed-off room or their crate for roughly ten minutes.
6. If you catch them starting to go after the pool noodles, redirect their attention to one of their toys.
7. Reward them with praise, a small treat, and praise when they pick a toy rather than chewing or eating pool noodles.
8. Ensure that anyone else in the house is also following these steps while remaining patient and consistent.

These steps will get your dog to stop chewing pool noodles, but it’s important to remember that the underlying behavioral issues (anxiety, boredom, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present. And until you address those, any positive changes you see are only going to be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last then?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like when your dog chews pool noodles and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video, Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here. Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about your dog eating pool noodles ever again!

Why Do Dogs Chew on Pool Noodles?

Dogs chew on pool noodles primarily due to anxiety. When dogs are feeling stressed or anxious, they may resort to chewing as a coping mechanism that provides relief and a sense of calm.

Boredom is another possible reason, with dogs seeking out activities like chewing to fill their time and keep themselves entertained. The texture and consistency of pool noodles might also be alluring to them, encouraging the destructive behavior.

In the case of puppies, teething can contribute to their desire to chew on pool noodles. During the teething phase, puppies experience discomfort as their teeth grow, and chewing can help alleviate this pain.

While puppies will grow out of teething, you still need to address the chewing behavior immediately. Even though the teething phase will eventually pass, it’s important not to let it become a learned behavior now, as they will still find it pleasurable and soothing even as an adult.

Keeping your pool noodles stored out of your dog’s reach when not being used is a good first step, but you need to remember that it’s not going to do anything about the core issue. Your dog will just find other objects to destructively chew in an effort to alleviate their problem.

You may come home one day to find that your dog chewed your garden gnome, chewed your lawn ornament, chewed your grill cover, or chewed your shovel handle. Practically anything they can get to can become a tempting target. I’m sure you can see why it’s so important to handle this at its core. To learn the exact steps to do just that, go back to the first section of this article now.

My Dog Eats Pool Noodles: Is It Pica?

If your dog is eating pool noodles, they may be suffering from a condition called pica. Pica is an eating disorder in which dogs consume non-food items, like pool noodles. It can be caused by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies, behavioral issues, or underlying medical conditions.

It’s important to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has pica. They can help you determine the cause of this behavior and recommend appropriate treatment options. Remember, even if your dog doesn’t have pica, it’s still essential to address the issue of eating pool noodles to ensure their safety and well-being.

What Should I Do if My Dog Ate a Pool Noodle?

If your dog ate a pool noodle, the first thing you should do is remain calm. While it’s not ideal for dogs to ingest pieces of pool noodles, they often pass through the digestive system without causing harm. However, it’s a good idea to contact your veterinarian for advice and to monitor your dog for any signs of distress or discomfort.

Your vet may suggest observing your dog closely for any symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, which could indicate a blockage or other complications. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Are Pool Noodles Safe for Dogs to Chew On?

Although dogs may find pool noodles appealing to chew on, they are not a safe chew toy option. Pool noodles are made from polyethylene foam, which can break into small pieces when chewed. These small pieces can be a choking hazard or cause digestive issues if ingested.

It’s always best to provide your dog with safe and appropriate chew toys designed specifically for their size and chewing style. This will help to prevent any potential health risks associated with them chewing on unsafe items like pool noodles.

Why Do Dogs Like Pool Noodles So Much?

Dogs are attracted to pool noodles for a variety of reasons. The texture of the foam is soft and pliable, making it enjoyable for them to chew on. Additionally, pool noodles often are blue or yellow (the two colors that dog’s can discern), increasing their curiosity and interest in the object.

Another reason dogs may be drawn to pool noodles is their scent. While pool noodles don’t have a strong smell to humans, dogs have a much more sensitive sense of smell and may be attracted to any lingering chemical odors from the manufacturing process.

With this information, you should now have a better understanding of why your dog might be attracted to pool noodles and the potential risks associated with this behavior. It’s time to take action to keep your dog safe and healthy, so I’ll let you get started. Good luck with everything, and thank you for reading our article “Dog Ate Pool Noodle? What to Do + How to Stop It!”