Stick Eating

Question
QUESTION: Ronnie is a year old border collie x blue heeler and he has taken to eating sticks and other dangerous goods, he is a free range farm dog so controlling this is hard. Is it behavioural or dietery? Should I put a muzzel on him? He still chews anything like mad and apart from a kong he can destroy any rubber bone or solid ball. He has already had one trip to the vet and I am expecting more if I can't control this.

ANSWER: It's most likely behavioral. Both breeds in your dogs genetic make up are working dogs. Border collies particularly go a little nuts without a job of some kind.
I never recommend muzzling it's very dangerous to leave a muzzled dog alone, especially outside. You really can't control his behavior at all since he runs free. Get him a job. Walk him twice a day, play fetch with him, work with him in obedience. Of course if it's possible, get him a couple of sheep :). No dog just needs to be left to their own devices all alone, Even a playmate would help.
Good luck
Diane

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Dianne, as we do most of this already I wonder if he will grow out of it. I am currently looking for an older bitch for him, but hadn't thought of sheep, will he consider these friends or will he bother them? He already has a cat who loves playing with him.

Answer
Sounds like you're trying to do the right things. This is just a very high energy dog so you might want to try extending your walks with him. I was actually joking about the sheep but it would give him something to herd if you honestly want to try it out. See if a friend has cattle or sheep so you can socialize him with them first. Usually the instincts in these dogs are VERY strong to herd and protect.
Another dog is a great idea.
Good luck
Diane