How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Toilet Paper? (5+ tips)

To stop your dog from eating toilet paper, keep it out of reach (close the bathroom door or use a covered holder), give your dog plenty of exercise and chew toys so they aren't bored, and teach a reliable "leave it" and "drop it". Most dogs shred toilet paper out of boredom, curiosity or for the fun of the chase, so removing the temptation while you train usually solves the problem.

While a few squares usually pass without trouble, eating larger amounts can upset your dog's stomach or even cause a blockage, so it's a habit worth breaking. (Laundry is another favorite target, which is why your dog brings you socks.) In this blog post, we’ll share five tips on how to stop your dog from eating toilet paper. Enjoy!

5 tips to stop your dog from eating toilet paper

So, your dog just loves the taste of toilet paper, huh? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many dog owners have gone through this phase with their furry friends. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to stop your dog from eating toilet paper.

1Keep toilet paper out of reach

This may be self-evident, but if you don’t want your dog to eat toilet paper, the best thing you can do is keep it out of reach. This may mean keeping the bathroom door closed or investing in a toilet paper holder that is out of your dog’s reach.

If your dog can’t access the toilet paper in the first place, then they can’t eat it.

2Distract your dog with toys

If your dog is bored, they may be more likely to chew on toilet paper as a way to entertain themselves. To avoid this, make sure your dog has plenty of toys to keep them occupied.

Interactive toys such as puzzle toys can be especially helpful in keeping your dog’s attention away from toilet paper. If your dog is busy trying to figure out how to get the treat out of the toy, they’re not focused on chewing on toilet paper.

Teething puppies chew on everything, so offer them puppy-safe chew toys to soothe their gums instead.

3Give your dog plenty of exercise

A tired dog is a good dog. If your furry friend is getting plenty of exercise, they’ll be less likely to have the energy to chew on toilet paper. This is because exercise tires out both their body and their mind.

An energetic dog may be more likely to seek out destructive behaviors, like chewing on toilet paper, as a way to release all that built-up energy. But a dog who has been properly exercised will be more likely to relax and take a nap instead of looking for trouble.

So, make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise every day. A long walk or run, followed by some playtime at the park, is the perfect way to tire out your dog.

4Stick to a routine

Dogs are creatures of habit and they love routines. If you stick to a set schedule, your dog will be less likely to get into trouble because they’ll know what to expect.

A regular routine will help your dog feel safe and secure, which may prevent them from chewing on toilet paper out of anxiety or boredom. So, try to stick to a regular feeding and walking schedule for your dog.

5Obedience training

If your dog is eating toilet paper despite your best efforts, obedience training may be necessary. This will help them learn to listen to you and follow commands, even when they’re distracted.

Teaching "leave it" and "drop it" with treats means your dog will learn to let go of the toilet paper when you ask. Avoid chasing your dog when they grab a roll, as many dogs see that as a fun game and will do it again to get your attention; trade it for a treat instead. These skills are valuable because they can help you stop your dog from eating other things they shouldn’t, like shoes or socks.

How does eating toilet paper harm your dog?

A small amount of plain toilet paper usually softens and passes through without causing harm. The main risk is quantity: eating a lot of it, or a whole cardboard tube, can cause stomach upset or an intestinal blockage, especially in small dogs. Scented or lotion-treated paper may also irritate the stomach.

Used wet wipes, paper towels, tampons and other sanitary products are much more dangerous than toilet paper, because they don't break down and are a common cause of blockages. Keep bathroom bins covered too. If a dog constantly tries to eat non-food items, this is called pica, and it's worth asking your vet to rule out a medical or nutritional cause.

What to do if your dog ate toilet paper?

If your dog ate a lot of toilet paper, a cardboard tube, or anything like wet wipes or sanitary products, call your veterinarian. They will be able to advise you on what to do next and may want to see your dog in person. Don't try to make your dog vomit at home unless your vet tells you to.

If your dog is acting normal and doesn’t seem to be in any pain, you can wait and see if they pass the toilet paper on their own. Watch your dog closely for the next couple of days. If your dog is vomiting, refuses food, seems lethargic, has a painful or swollen belly, or is straining without passing any poop, take them to the vet immediately as these may be signs of an intestinal blockage.

Intestinal blockages are very serious and can even be fatal, so it’s important to seek professional help if you think your dog may be affected.

Final thoughts – How to stop your dog from eating toilet paper

There are a number of things you can do to stop your dog from eating toilet paper. Try giving them puzzle toys or providing more exercise to tire them out. You should also stick to a routine and consider obedience training if necessary. If your dog already ate toilet paper, call your veterinarian for advice.

Sources:

• https://www.preventivevet.com/
• https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/dog-eats-toilet-paper/