Q tips and other small items around the house are a danger to dogs. It is common for dog owners to not realize this until it becomes obvious their q tips are going missing and/or their dog is chewing into the bag/jar! This is why it is essential to learn more about dogs with q tips including asking, why do dogs eat q tips?
Dogs eat q tips because they are bored, anxious, and/or are feeling hungry. Each situation is unique but q tips are seen as an accessible item for them to paw at, chew, and/or eat.
It’s recommended for dog owners to be hyper-aware of where their q tips are at all times. Dogs are prone to get their teeth around a few and begin chewing!
Key factors include:
- Placement of the Q Tips
- Dog’s Mental Health
- Dog’s Medical History
Dog owners should take the time to make sure their dog doesn’t bite into the q tips. This is when dogs begin to find the entire process entertaining and fun when they are bored! If you are wondering, “why do dogs eat q tips?” it might be time to look at your dog’s mental health.
It is common for dogs that stay home alone to do these types of things.
A dog that is bored may feel eating q tips is entertaining or different from everything else they can do. If the q tips are accessible, it is likely they are going to go down this path.
Here is why you want to make sure to ask, “Why do dogs eat q tips?” and learn more about your options as a dog owner on how to stop a dog from eating q tips.
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Tips for Stopping a Dog From Eating Q Tips
1. Keep the Q Tips in a Cabinet or Higher Up
The simple solution is to find a way to hide the q tips from your dog at home.
This means placing them inside a locked cabinet and/or putting them higher up in the house. This is one of the best ways to make sure your dog doesn’t dig into the q tips jar/holder.
Otherwise, they are going to continue to go after the q tips because it is easy for them to do so.

2. Train Your Dog to Avoid Q Tips
If you are asking “Why do dogs eat q tips?” the best approach is to train your dog to not eat q tips.
This is the right long-term strategy to implement.
By doing this, you are going to teach your dog not to eat q tips in any situation even when they are not at home.
To do this, you will have to reward the dog when it avoids the q tips.
Over time, they are going to get the hang of it and that is when you will see great results.

3. Use a Dog Repellent Near the Q Tips
Have you taken the time to use a dog repellent near the cabinet where your q tips are?
This is a good strategy to not only protect the dog from q tips but other household items that are dangerous for dogs to eat.
Just place them inside the cabinet and spray a bit of dog repellant around the edges.
A good dog repellent that isn’t horrible for humans would be lavender oil.
Just spray a little bit and watch as your dog stays away from the q tips at home.
Related Questions
1. Are Q Tips Bad For Dogs To Eat?
Q Tips are not safe for dogs to eat. They can get lodged in the dog’s throat, lead to significant digestive issues, and/or become a safety risk due to overconsumption of the material.
2. What If My Dog Eats a Q Tip?
If your dog consumes a q tip, it’s recommended to visit the vet for additional x-rays. Continue to monitor the dog’s health and make sure the q tip has not been lodged in their throat and/or anywhere else in the digestive system.
Final Thoughts
Why do dogs eat q tips?
Dogs tend to get bored from time to time and this is their way of entertaining themselves. Dogs will often eat items around the house that are accessible and this can include q tips.
Look to train your dog not to do this and make sure the q tips are out of reach at all times.
Here is more about dogs – feeding a dog during the night, giving a poppadom to your dog, dogs that stop walking, and comforting a dog that has just been spayed.