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Can Dogs Chew On Plastic Water Bottles? Is It Okay? (+How to Stop!)

Seeing your dog chew on a water bottle might leave you wondering, can dogs chew on water bottles, or why do dogs chew on plastic bottles? It’s a question many dog owners have, especially when they see their pet eagerly biting into plastic.

This article will dive into the reasons behind this behavior and whether it’s safe for dogs, including puppies, to chew on water bottles. If you’re puzzled by your dog’s fascination with plastic bottles, we’ve got insights and tips to help you understand and manage this habit. Keep reading to find out what’s okay and what to watch out for when it comes to dogs and plastic bottles.

Can Dogs Chew on Water Bottles?

Can Dogs Chew on Water Bottles?

While dogs may find chewing on water bottles entertaining, it isn’t safe. The risk of ingesting plastic pieces, potential toxins from the bottle material, and the danger of choking make it a practice that needs to be prevented.

Why Do Dogs Chew on Plastic Bottles?

Dogs chew on plastic bottles due to their instinctual need to chew, the enticing crunchy sound and texture of the bottles, or to relieve things like anxiety or boredom. However, this behavior can pose risks such as ingestion of plastic pieces leading to gastrointestinal blockages, and the potential for the bottle cap or ring to cause choking.

Can Puppies Chew on Water Bottles?

Puppies chew on water bottles for the same reasons as adult dogs, but the risks are even higher due to their smaller size and tendency to chew more aggressively. The possibility of swallowing sharp pieces of plastic is a significant concern, along with the potential for toxins leaching from the plastic into their system.

Dogs Chewing Plastic Bottles: How to Stop

  • Redirect their attention to safe, dog-friendly chew toys that satisfy their need to chew without the risks associated with plastic bottles.
  • Train them with a “leave it” command, which can be taught by offering a treat in exchange for dropping the bottle and then rewarding them when they comply. You can try practicing with less tempting items at first.
  • Keep water bottles out of reach and ensure that your dog has plenty of appropriate toys to chew on.

While dogs may enjoy chewing on water bottles, the potential risks make it a habit that needs to be discouraged. These steps will help, but it’s important to remember that any 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 will only be temporary.

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

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 your dog chewing plastic bottles 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 chewing on water bottles ever again!

Dog Ate Piece of Plastic Bottle

Dog Ate Piece of Plastic Bottle

If your dog ate a piece of a plastic bottle, watch them closely. The risks associated with your dog eating pieces of a plastic bottle include gastrointestinal blockage and irritation, which can be quite serious.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any symptoms such as vomiting, discomfort, or any unusual behavior. In many cases, the ingested plastic might pass through without causing harm, but the potential risks shouldn’t be underestimated.

Dog Ate Water Bottle, What Do I Do?

In the event your dog ate a water bottle, keep an eye out for any immediate signs of choking or distress. Inspect their mouth and throat for any stuck fragments. Should you observe symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or signs of abdominal pain, it’s important to seek veterinary assistance right away.

The vet may need to perform an x-ray or other diagnostic tests to assess the situation and decide the best course of action. Learn the steps to prevent these incidents by going back to the first section.

Can Dogs Digest Plastic?

Dogs cannot digest plastic, and it poses several health risks to them. Ingested plastic can lead to internal blockages, causing severe discomfort and potential damage to the dog’s gastrointestinal tract.

Depending on the size and type of the swallowed plastic, it may either pass through the dog’s system or, in more critical situations, require surgical intervention. Act quickly and contact a veterinarian if you suspect your dog ate plastic.

Is It Ok to Let Dogs Chew On Plastic Bottles?

Allowing dogs to chew on plastic bottles should be discouraged due to the many possible risks. Plastic can easily break into sharp pieces, posing a significant choking hazard or risk of internal injury if swallowed. Moreover, the sharp edges can damage a dog’s mouth, teeth, or gums.

To ensure your pet’s safety, it’s better to provide them with chew toys that are specifically designed for dogs. These toys are usually made from safer, more durable materials and can help satisfy your dog’s chewing instinct without the risks associated with plastic. Learn a command that will help by going back to the first section now.

In summary, while some dogs may chew on or eat water bottles without immediate consequences, the potential for serious health issues makes it a practice best avoided. If your dog eats a plastic bottle, contacting your vet right away is crucial. Providing safer alternatives for chewing can help prevent such incidents in the future.

You’re probably ready to begin now that you have all of your questions about your dog chewing on bottles answered, so I’ll let you get started on things. Best wishes, and thank you for taking a look at our article “Can Dogs Chew On Plastic Water Bottles? Is It Okay? (+How to Stop!)”.

The Author

KB Williams

KB Williams

Hey there! I'm a dog behavior expert and lover of travel. Since 2016, I've been sharing my knowledge of dog training and behavior while exploring the Pacific Northwest with my two rescues.