{"id":1018,"date":"2017-08-29T11:05:49","date_gmt":"2017-08-29T18:05:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/?p=1018"},"modified":"2024-07-25T05:30:25","modified_gmt":"2024-07-25T12:30:25","slug":"dog-behavior-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/dog-behavior-2\/","title":{"rendered":"A Cold Drink From the Toilet: Uncouth Dog Behavior (Sometimes) Makes Sense"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"toiletWe not only allow, but wholeheartedly welcome dogs to share in all the trappings of modern living. Some dogs are invited to sleep with their owners on goose-down bedding; others hang out on the sofa for the latest binge-worthy TV. Indeed, dogs are veritable members of the family. That doesn\u2019t mean, however, that we don\u2019t collectively scratch our heads at certain canine codes of conduct. Dog behavior varies between individuals, but as a group, dogs seem to really enjoy slurping from the toilet bowl. But why?<\/p>\n

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Gag Reflex<\/h3>\n

The thought of refreshing oneself from the same source that recently flushed away yesterday\u2019s carne asada can definitely trigger a gag reflex. That\u2019s only natural. However, when you consider the possible reasons your pooch does this, it kind of \u2013 shockingly \u2013 makes sense.<\/p>\n

Cold, Wet, and…Forbidden?<\/h3>\n

Dog behavior is often dictated by what tastes good. In the case of a toilet Slurpee, the water is just cold and, therefore, very enticing, refreshing, and delicious. Insulating porcelain is responsible for keeping that canine \u201ctrough\u201d a nice crisp temperature. If you really think about it, is this dog behavior<\/a> so different from your own inclinations toward an ice-cold beverage?<\/p>\n

Dangerous Dog Behavior<\/h3>\n

Okay, so drinking from the bowl<\/a> is completely normal, but is it safe? Not so much. The first reason for this is related to high levels of harmful bacteria that come from, well, you know where. Gastrointestinal problems can result from drinking contaminated water.<\/p>\n

Foul-smelling toilet bowls or ones covered in stains can lead consumers to purchase toxic toilet bowl cleaners. Whether you drop in a blue disc or spray the bowl for a quick rinse, your dog could need a trip to the emergency room<\/a> if he or she ingests any of these products. Know the signs of a pet poisoning<\/a>, and never hesitate to call for help<\/a>.<\/p>\n

What to Do<\/h3>\n

Beyond simply closing the toilet lid (and keeping it closed), what can you do to keep this dog behavior at bay?<\/p>\n