Why Dogs Chew or Eat Strange Things

A question submitted by a reader:  Why does my beagle eat toilet paper and ear cleaners?
There are any number of reasons why this occurs. I hear about it a lot in my clinic, pets eating non food items and the owners are puzzled. Some reasons are medical, some are behavioral. It may take some investigation and help from your veterinarian to figure it out.
One of the reasons is called "pica". This is a condition where anything and everything the pet sees that is a non-food item is eaten. Rocks, paper, wood, etc are all fair game to your pet. This is a behavioral condition that training may help with, but it may not. The very best solution is to keep everything out of your pet's reach. It can be very serious, even fatal, if your pets consumes something that gets stuck in their intestines. If this occurs, you could be looking at a very costly surgery! Or they could eat medication and become very sick or die. 
Another reason is a condition called separation anxiety. This occurs very often in certain breeds, such as beagles, but it can happen to any dog. A dog with separation anxiety will display destructive behaviors when you leave them alone, even for a short time period. They will chew and eat non food items, tear up carpets or the floor, and other unwanted behaviors. Their main goal is simple: to try and find their owners. They don't know where you went, or if you will return. They just want you back where they can see you! These dogs can be managed by behavior modifying medications and a special type of training known as B.O.N.D. This will take time and patience on your part to help maintain your pet's fearful behaviors.
Finally, there is just plain boredom, or "being a dog" syndrome. Dogs just love to chew. They will sometimes get bored and find something non-food to chew on and eat. This is why it is important to have appropriate toys you want your pet to chew on. If, for example, your pet is eating toilet paper, he or she may be bored and it is up to you as a pet owner to correct the behavior. Do not allow your pet access to the toilet paper anymore. Give your pet toys you do want him or her to chew on and praise them when they do so. Never punish your pet after the fact, like if you come home to toilet paper all over the house. They will not know why you are upset with them. Some dogs will chew up things just because they think it is fun. The key to correcting this is consistency and patience.