Why do dogs lay in dirt?

Some dogs eat dirt because their bodies tell them to. This can be because of a mineral deficiency (not just iron) that is somehow improved by consuming dirt off the ground. Unless the dirt is contaminated by something harmful to the animal, this practice of eating dirt may actually be good for them.

If this is the reason your dog is eating dirt, it may be remedied by giving them the missing nutrients as supplements. There are a variety of vitamins and minerals available at pet stores that may replace the dirt as a means of getting what the dog's body needs. Look for natural WHOLE food sources.