Dogs are of curious nature, they like to explore new places and things. They have this strange desire of hunting down the critters crawling on the floor. Plus, sometimes just crush and nibble those insects/bugs.
If you want to know more about, can dogs eat bugs? Is it normal for them to eat insects? Can they eat any type of insect/bug?
In this blog, we have covered all the related points. You will surely get all your doubts cleared.
So, keep reading!
Contents
Can Dogs Have Bugs?
The short answer is yes, dogs can safely eat bugs in small quantities. In fact, the majority of the bugs are non-toxic, so they won’t harm them. According to avma “Bed bugs don’t live on pets or spend as much time on your pet as the more common pests (such as fleas, ticks, lice and mites), but they can bite your pets.” But you should not let them eat too many insects. However, in case if he has eaten toxic bugs/insects then it can lead to severe stomach issues and can hurt his mouth.
You can allow your dog to explore the world and ingest bugs/ insects, or just attack and crumble them. But, always keep one thing in mind, not all bugs are safe for him to ingest. So, being a pet parent, it’s your responsibility to keep an eye on your pup, while he is eating anything from the floor grass. Just like you do with toddlers.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Bugs?
After doing a lot of research work, we came to the conclusion that it’s perfectly fine for dogs to eat bugs or insects, there is nothing strange or wrong with it. There can be many reasons behind eating bugs or insects, but we cannot conclude it to be one of the strange behavior.
It’s totally normal for dogs to eat bugs/insects. It’s a fact that out of curiosity, they try to reach out to the insects. And they get attracted when they spot any crawling insects on the floor. Eating bugs is like having snacks or munching for the dogs.
It has also been noticed that many times they just attack the bugs, crush them and then leave them. So, it’s not necessary that every time he is going to nibble those bugs.
List of Bugs Non-toxic to Dogs
As we have an idea, dogs can eat bugs. It is rich in protein, and also contains oil, fat, vitamins, and minerals, which are good for your furry pal’s health, and won’t harm it. But, he cannot eat every type of bug, there are bugs that are toxic to them.
So, to clear up your confusion, we have listed down the names of the non-toxic bugs so that if your canine is eating, you don’t have to worry much.
Ants
Dogs can eat ants, and it’s harmless to them. It is rich in vitamin C and protein, so it won’t harm his body. Next time, if you find your pup eating ants, don’t worry, let him eat.
But, just keep an eye on them, they don’t ingest fire ants. Because it could get a nasty sting, which can hurt his mouth and nose.
Spiders
Spiders are commonly found in the household and dogs do encounter them often, which attracts their mind, and build curiosity. So, if your dog trying to eat spiders or has a habit of attacking them and ingesting them. Then no need to worry much, it won’t harm their body.
But remember one thing, your dog shouldn’t get bitten in the mouth by a spider, otherwise, it will create issues for him.
Houseflies
Well, if your dog eats houseflies, there is no need to worry, as it will not harm your pup’s body. It’s true that it contains a lot of diseases and bacteria, but it won’t damage your furry pal’s body. But make sure that they are not eating in bulk, and it should not be added as a habit because anything consumed in bulk can lead to issues only.
What Bugs Are Toxic to Dogs?
Here, are a list of bugs that are toxic to your dog. Have a look:
- Asian Lady Beetle
- Boxelder Bugs
- Caterpillars
- Monarch butterfly caterpillars
- Cockroaches
- Crickets
- Fireflies
- Grubs
- Stink Bugs
- Ticks
If you notice your furry pal is trying to ingest any of the above bugs or insects, then strictly warn them. Give them the command not to eat it because this is not good for their health, and leads to severe health issues.
If it’s difficult for you to keep in mind which bugs are safe and not, then follow a simple trick. All you need to do is identify the bugs, which contain a lot of bacteria. Plus, who ingests poop because those bugs are not good for your fido. This is because if he will ingest them, it will create worm issues for them. And other stomach-related issues will be faced by your furry pal.
Symptoms to Look For
If your pup has ingested toxic insects/bugs, observe him closely, he will show symptoms such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Swelling in mouth
- Feeling lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Digestion issue
If you notice any such symptoms, it’s advisable to consult the vet. And start your pup’s treatment on time to avoid any health complications.
FAQs
Why does my dog eat bugs?
It could be possible that dogs find it interesting, and out of curiosity they attack and eat bugs. We can say that it’s their strange desire of hunting them down, whenever they see insects/bugs crawling on the floor. As Per ACK, “pet owners would see signs of drowsiness or drooling if their dog was affected with an issue from eating the bugs.” Many a time they just attack, crush them, and leave them on the floor.
Are moths poisonous to dogs?
Well, moths are not poisonous to dogs. It has been noticed that the majority of the dogs chase moths around their house or backyard lane. It’s completely fine, as moths are harmless and won’t hurt your furry pal.
Can dogs eat beetles?
No, your dog cannot eat beetles because it contains a substance that is not good for their health. Plus, it can even burn your canine’s mouth. However, there are certain non-toxic bugs, which your pup can eat, and won’t create any health issues.
Can dogs eat June bugs?
June bugs are commonly found in Oklahoma, and it’s not harmful to dogs. So, yeah, your dog can eat June bugs. But, if he consumes it in a bulk, then it can lead to stomach issues such as vomiting, or diarrhea.
Well, It’s a Wrap!
Expectantly, our blog on Can dogs eat bugs?
Gives you a clear idea of the problem and symptoms. That he can get after eating too many poisonous bugs/insects, which are bad for them.
Furthermore, it will be better if you keep an eye on your dog, while he is eating anything directly from the floor or grass.
However, if he has already eaten it in large quantities, take him to the vet, and start his medication, and he will be fine.
For the future, it is advisable to keep an eye on your furry pal, and only let him eat non-toxic bugs/insects in moderate amounts.
Reference:
- Nutritional and sensory quality of edible insects. (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nfs.2016.07.001
- Valdés, F. (n.d.). Insects as Feed for Companion and Exotic Pets: A Current Trend. MDPI. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12111450
- Jgauntt. (2022, March 11). Chagas disease in dogs (2018). VMBS News. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk/chagas-disease-in-dogs-2018/
Julia is a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, practicing veterinarian in a non-profit animal hospital and feline sanctuary located in Rochester, NY. She is also a full-time veterinary advisor at DogLikesBest. She focuses on writing healthcare-related topics including dog foods, treats, veterinary diets, food for specific healthcare features, etc. Moreover, any article on DogNeedsBest that has to concern feline health in any way, goes under her scrutiny before being published.
