Dog chews Metal

[Dorilana]

I noticed a prior dog owner's question about her dog chewing metal. I have a 5 yr old schnauzer/poodle that does the same thing. He has been found chewing on nails, screws, jewelry, he goes to great lengths to pull staples out of a carpet in our front entrance way. He has also been seen chewing various rocks, but not as often as metal. I am very concerned that he is lacking something essential in his diet. If anyone knows ANYTHING about this behaviour and/or what causes it, I would truly appreciate it . Thanks for your time, and have a great day!

Dana (Chancey's mommy!).

[joyceygold]

By the sound of it the only thing he is lacking are drill bits and aluminium sinks !!

[Emily Ball]

The obvious thing would be to say iron and other minerals but sometimes it's to do with a taste they acquired as a puppy. My 2 yr old dog used to run off with toilet soap from the bathroom and have a good chew on it whenever he had the opportunity when he was a pup and still would, given the chance. He obviously loved the taste and seems to love the smell of perfumes on anyone too.  And if anyone has the bad manners to break wind in his vicinity, he goes to the other end of the room ,away from the unsavoury  aroma.If your dog seems otherwise healthy and happy, I would worry more about his swallowing stones and metal which could lead to very nasty obstructions requiring emergency operations.

[Kimmiebear]

Most likey your dog is not craving metal, but needing something to do. I have 2 things that my boss told me that I think every dog owner should know...(ny the by I work at a Vet hospital)
1) no dog is happier than a dog with a job to do
2) Dogs live in the now: your dog won't realize that although you are out now, you will take him for a walk later. All the dog knows is that he isn't walking now. (that's why chemotherapy in dogs is lousy).
Try giving your dog a "job" while you are out. Look into toys that are time consuming such as stuffed "Kongs" or reindeer antlers (my George loves these) The toys that are designed to be chewed for long periods of time are excellent if you have to go out. Make sure that the toy is of appropriate size and that your dog can safely chew it without choking or swallowing parts of it!
Supplements can be bought from the vet if you are still worried about minerals, but from experience; we hardly ever sell them. A good quality dog food should have everything your dog needs. If you are unsure about the brand, call the vet and ask them. They will have diets for sale, but most are knowledgable about other brands as well (the nurse or receptionist should be able to field these questions.)
Finally DO NOT LET YOUR DOG SWALLOW ANY METAL! There is nothing worse than having to explain to a client that you have to open the dogs stomach to remove a rock or screw or piece of hammer. These surgeries are costly and usually done as emergencies which adds stress to all involved. If your dog has these kinds of habits and becomes constipated it would be adventageous to seek professional help asap as the problem may become grave within 1-2 days.
Cheers hope this helps.