Summertime for many dog lovers means hitting the beach. And of course, your dog goes with you. A lot of dogs love the beach and water, but sand comes along with beach fun. You have to watch your dog to protect him from dehydration, water intoxication, and other things, but have you thought about what sand can do to your dog? Yes, getting out of their fur is a pain, but we are talking about sand impaction in dogs. Obedience Please! Dog Training offers dog training in Pasadena that can help with behavior, and we offer tips for dog owners as well.

What Happens When Your Dog Eats Sand?

Let’s be honest; dogs will eat just about anything if given the opportunity. The beach is a delightful opportunity for them. Lots of new smells, creatures, and sand for them to enjoy. There are many ways your dog can swallow sand. These include:

  • Digging in the sand
  • Picking up objects covered in sand with his mouth
  • Licking or eating sand with food remains
  • Drinking lake water

Small amounts pass easily through your dog’s digestive tract as a rule. But if he ingests a large amount, you can have problems. It can cause impaction within their intestines. Symptoms of sand impaction include:

  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargic after being around the sand

It can happen in hours or a few days, and the amount that can cause the problem will differ depending on the dog. Preventing the problem is the best way to handle it, but if you think your dog has a problem, seek help. If you need dog training in Pasadena, give us a call.