Dog Owner Reveals the Most Extreme Things His Pets Have Eatenâand Survived
If there's one thing that any dog owner knows for certain, it's that dogs love to chew anything they can sink their teeth into—whether it's your favorite pair of shoes, the food you left on the side, or of course, the decorative cushions that weren't meant to be shredded.
They really aren't fussy, so you name it, they will chew it.
That is part of the everyday struggle faced by Minnesota dog owner Dillon White, who shared an Instagram Reel of the countless items his two dogs have eaten—and yet they'd likely still do it again.
The clip, which was posted on May 28, has already gained over 8.7 million views and more than 260,000 likes on Instagram.
The list of chewed items included a MacBook Pro, coloring crayons, an antique wicker chair, an entire pack of hot dog buns, a canister of coffee, and perhaps most impressively, a window. Needless to say, social media users were amazed by the long list of accomplishments, and the cheeky pups looked quite pleased with themselves too.
There are a multitude of reasons why dogs love to chew things even though they're not supposed to. For puppies, chewing is a fun way to explore the world around them. Older dogs might carry on chewing to keep their jaw strong and teeth clean, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
It's important to identify why dogs are chewing before working out how to prevent the issue further. Common causes include separation anxiety, fabric sucking, hunger, teething, lack of mental stimulation, or stress.
While the solution will vary depending on the cause, the ASPCA suggests taking them out for daily walks and socializing with other dogs, training classes, and puzzle toys to increase their exercise and keep them mentally stimulated. Alternatively, if stress and frustration is the issue, avoid exposing the dog to situations that make them nervous, and look for potential signs of separation anxiety.
According to Leslie Bauer, medical director at Thrive Pet Healthcare Specialists, chewing is often a result of boredom and curiosity. If they do manage to get their teeth into something they shouldn't, Bauer recommends seeking veterinary advice immediately, as the sooner they're checked over, "the more likely the veterinarian can remove the object from the stomach."
Bauer, from San Antonio, Texas, told Newsweek that the best way to avoid any dangerous chewing it by dog-proofing the house, and not give them an opportunity to misbehave. Additionally, she adds that crate training gives the dog a "safe, quiet place" away from any potential dangers.
"Ensure items like garbage cans and laundry baskets are placed behind closed doors or have locking lids," she continued. "If your dog has certain household items they like to chew, put them out of reach or behind a closed door."
How Did Instagram React?
Fortunately, White can see the hilarity in his dogs' antics, as he even joked that he's "still waiting on the emergency vet to name that new wing after us." After that many trips, surely it's only a matter of time.
White regularly shares videos on social media (@dillonmichaelwhite on Instagram, and @dadchats on TikTok) about his life and funny musings. But it appears that the clip of his two dogs has captured plenty of attention, and the internet can't get enough of their mischief.
The viral Instagram Reel has amassed over 3,900 comments already, as numerous users were keen to find out more. One comment read: "I represent everyone when I say we need a full story time about that window. Cos we have questions. Many many questions."
Another Instagram user wrote: "Sometimes I think I want a dog and then I hear stories like this and think again."
While another person joked: "Exotic appetites. Lots of fiber. No sugar in many of those things."
But not everyone is so sure that the dogs were the culprits here, as one social media user commented: "I dunno, they look completely innocent to me."
Newsweek reached out to @dillonmichaelwhite via email for comment. We could not verify the details of the video.
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