eating a little dirt

Question
Hi - my 12 1/2 yr old Golden mix has eaten a little dirt from potted plants outside the past couple of mornings. His BMs seem to be within the norm. Any potential problem? Thank you

Answer
Hi Herb,

I honestly feel that you don't need to worry about this. Dogs will seek out things that they (somehow instinctively) know they need. There is possibly some mineral in this soil that may be lacking in his diet or that his body may metabolize easier in this form.

I'd like to add, perhaps he is seeking some beneficial bacteria in his GIT. These good bacteria are there to help fight off the bad "bugs", aid in digestion, and improve absorption of nutrients. There has been some studies that have shown that dogs will eat things like dirt, kitty poo, grass, and a host of other gross things when they are lacking, but sometimes it's just because they LIKE it!

Maybe try adding a bit of plain yogurt (with active cultures) to his diet by giving him a spoonful or by adding it to his food.