Can Dogs Eat Earwigs? The Surprising Truth Every Pet Parent Should Know

It’s a typical Saturday morning: you’re sipping coffee on the porch, and your dog, Luna, is trotting around the yard, nose to the ground, on a mission. Suddenly, she freezes, pounces, and gulp—down goes something small and wriggly. You lean in, squinting, and realize it was an earwig. Cue the instant panic: Is that dangerous? Will she get sick? Should I call the vet?

If you’ve ever watched your dog chow down on a bug and wondered, “Can dogs eat earwigs?” you’re not alone. Earwigs are common backyard dwellers, and dogs—with their curious, “eat first, ask questions later” approach to life—often see them as tiny, crunchy snacks. But are these creepy-crawlies harmless, or a hidden hazard?

In this guide, we’ll break down the facts: whether earwigs are toxic to dogs, potential benefits (spoiler: there are very few), risks to watch for, and safer alternatives to satisfy your pup’s urge to munch. Let’s dig in!

Table of Contents

1. Can Dogs Eat Earwigs? The Short Answer
2. Potential “Benefits” of Earwigs for Dogs (Spoiler: They’re Minimal)
3. The Real Risks: Why Earwigs Might Not Be Safe
4. How Much (If Any) Earwig Is Safe for Dogs?
5. Healthier Alternatives to Earwigs for Your Pup
6. FAQ: Your Earwig-and-Dog Questions, Answered
7. Conclusion: Play It Safe, Skip the Earwigs
8. References

Can Dogs Eat Earwigs? The Short Answer

Let’s cut to the chase: Earwigs are not toxic to dogs. According to the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline, earwigs (scientific name: Dermaptera) are not listed as poisonous or harmful to pets. So, if your dog snatches one up on a walk or in the yard, it’s unlikely to cause a life-threatening emergency.

But here’s the catch: “Non-toxic” does not equal “safe.” Just because earwigs won’t poison your dog doesn’t mean they’re a good idea. In fact, there are several risks to consider—from stomach upset to hidden pesticides—that make earwigs a snack best avoided.

Potential “Benefits” of Earwigs for Dogs (Spoiler: They’re Minimal)

You might be thinking, “If earwigs aren’t toxic, maybe they’re a tiny source of nutrition?” Let’s be real: earwigs are small, and their nutritional value for dogs is… underwhelming. Here’s what they might offer, in theory:

1. Trace Amounts of Protein

Like most insects, earwigs contain protein. But we’re talking microscopic amounts. A single earwig weighs less than a gram, so even if your dog ate 10, they’d get roughly 0.1 grams of protein—about 0.02% of the daily protein a 50-pound dog needs. For context, a single chicken breast has ~30 grams of protein. Earwigs are not a “protein boost.”

2. Fiber (From the Exoskeleton)

Earwigs have a hard exoskeleton made of chitin, a fibrous substance. In theory, chitin could act as a mild source of fiber. But dogs’ digestive systems aren’t great at breaking down chitin, so most of it will pass through undigested. And as we’ll discuss later, that exoskeleton can actually cause problems.

3. Tiny Bits of Minerals

Some sources claim earwigs might contain trace minerals like potassium or magnesium. But again, the amounts are so small they’re irrelevant to your dog’s diet. Your pup gets all the potassium they need from their regular food (think: sweet potatoes, chicken, or commercial kibble formulated for dogs).

The bottom line: There’s no nutritional reason to feed your dog earwigs. Any “benefits” are negligible, and they’re far outweighed by the risks.

The Real Risks: Why Earwigs Might Not Be Safe

While earwigs aren’t toxic, they can still cause trouble for your dog. Here are the biggest risks to watch for:

1. Stomach Upset (Vomiting, Diarrhea, or Gas)

The most common issue? Gastrointestinal (GI) upset. Earwigs’ exoskeletons are tough and indigestible, which can irritate your dog’s stomach or intestines. This might lead to:

• Vomiting (especially if your dog ate multiple earwigs)
• Loose stools or diarrhea
• Bloating or gas

Puppies, small dogs, or dogs with sensitive stomachs (think: those prone to IBS or food allergies) are more likely to react.

2. Pesticide Exposure

Here’s a hidden danger: earwigs often live in damp, dark places like under mulch, rocks, or patio furniture—areas many homeowners treat with pesticides or insecticides. If the earwig your dog ate was exposed to chemicals (like pyrethrins, a common bug spray ingredient), your pup could ingest those toxins, too.

Pesticide poisoning in dogs can cause symptoms like:

• Drooling
• Tremors
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Seizures (in severe cases)

If you use pesticides in your yard, assume any bugs your dog eats might be contaminated.

3. Choking or Intestinal Blockage

Earwigs are small, but for tiny dogs (like Chihuahuas or Yorkies), even one could pose a choking hazard—especially if your pup tries to swallow it whole.

Worse, if your dog eats multiple earwigs, the undigested exoskeletons could clump together and form a blockage in the intestines. Intestinal blockages are serious and can require surgery to fix. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

4. Parasites or Pathogens

Earwigs are scavengers, meaning they eat decaying plant matter, other insects, and even feces (gross, we know). This makes them potential carriers of parasites (like roundworms or tapeworms) or bacteria (like Salmonella). If your dog eats an earwig that’s carrying parasites, they could become infected.

For example, if an earwig crawls through rodent feces and your dog eats it, there’s a small risk of contracting Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can cause kidney damage.

5. Allergic Reactions (Rare, But Possible)

Some dogs might have mild allergic reactions to earwigs, though this is rare. Symptoms could include itching, swelling around the mouth, or hives. If you notice these, contact your vet.

How Much (If Any) Earwig Is Safe for Dogs?

So, if your dog ate one earwig, should you panic? Probably not. Most dogs will pass a single earwig without issue. But “safe” doesn’t mean “encouraged.”

Accidental ingestion (1-2 earwigs): Monitor your dog for 24 hours. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If they act normal, they’re likely fine.

Intentional feeding: Don’t do it. There’s no reason to offer earwigs as a snack, and even a few could cause stomach upset.

If your dog eats multiple earwigs (5+): This is riskier. The more earwigs, the higher the chance of exoskeleton clumping (leading to blockages) or pesticide exposure. Keep a close eye on your pup, and contact your vet if they show symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, or bloating.

Special cases: Puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with health issues (like IBD or a history of blockages) are more vulnerable. If your dog falls into one of these groups, even a single earwig might warrant a call to the vet for peace of mind.

Healthier Alternatives to Earwigs for Your Pup

Dogs love to munch, and if your pup has a “bug obsession,” they might need safer outlets for their snacking urges. Here are some dog-friendly alternatives that are actually good for them:

1. Lean Proteins (Cooked)

• Chicken or turkey: Boiled, skinless, and unseasoned. A great source of lean protein (no exoskeleton required!).
• Scrambled eggs: Cooked without salt or butter. Eggs are packed with protein and vitamins.
• Canned tuna (in water): A small spoonful as a treat (avoid oil or salted varieties).

2. Veggies (Safe and Crunchy)

Dogs love crunchy snacks, and veggies are a great way to satisfy that urge without the risk. Try:

• Carrot sticks: Low in calories, high in fiber and vitamin A.
• Green beans: Steamed or raw (cut into bite-sized pieces for small dogs).
• Cucumber slices: Hydrating and refreshing (perfect for hot days!).

3. Fruits (In Moderation)

Fruits are a sweet treat, but stick to small portions (they’re high in sugar). Safe options include:

• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants.
• Banana: A slice now and then (high in potassium—way more than an earwig!).
• Apple slices: Remove the core and seeds (they contain cyanide, which is toxic).

4. Commercial Dog Treats

If you’re short on time, opt for high-quality dog treats made with natural ingredients. Look for brands with:

• No artificial preservatives or colors.
• Limited ingredients (great for dogs with allergies).
• Vet-recommended options (ask your vet for suggestions!).

FAQ: Your Earwig-and-Dog Questions, Answered

Q: My dog ate an earwig. Should I panic?

A: Probably not. Most dogs will be fine after eating one earwig. Monitor them for 24 hours for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If they act normal, no need to worry.

Q: Can earwigs make my dog sick?

A: Yes, but not because they’re toxic. The biggest risks are stomach upset (from the exoskeleton), pesticide exposure, or blockages (if your dog eats many). If your dog vomits more than once, has diarrhea for 24+ hours, or seems lethargic, call your vet.

Q: Are there any benefits to my dog eating earwigs?

A: No. Any “benefits” (like trace protein or fiber) are so minimal they don’t matter. Your dog’s regular food provides all the nutrition they need.

Q: My dog is obsessed with eating bugs (including earwigs). Is this normal?

A: Many dogs love chasing/eating bugs—it’s instinctual! But if your dog is constantly seeking out bugs, it could signal pica (a condition where dogs eat non-food items). Pica can be caused by nutrient deficiencies, boredom, or anxiety. Talk to your vet to rule out underlying issues.

Q: Should I use pesticides to keep earwigs away from my dog?

A: Pesticides can be toxic to dogs, so avoid overusing them. Instead, try natural ways to deter earwigs: keep your yard dry (earwigs love moisture), seal cracks in your home’s foundation, or use diatomaceous earth (food-grade, not the pool kind) around plants (it’s safe for pets when dry).

Conclusion: Play It Safe, Skip the Earwigs

So, can dogs eat earwigs? Technically, yes—they’re not toxic. But that doesn’t mean you should let your pup make a habit of it. Earwigs offer no real nutritional value, and they come with risks like stomach upset, pesticide exposure, or blockages.

The best approach? Prevent your dog from eating earwigs when possible (keep an eye on them in the yard!), and offer safer, healthier snacks instead. And if your dog does sneak an earwig (or ten), stay calm, monitor for symptoms, and call your vet if anything seems off.

After all, your dog deserves snacks that are actually good for them—like a carrot stick, a piece of chicken, or a tail-waggingly delicious dog treat. Earwigs? Let’s leave those in the compost pile where they belong.

References

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants and Substances.” ASPCA.org
• Pet Poison Helpline. “Common Household Hazards.” PetPoisonHelpline.com
• VCA Hospitals. “Pica in Dogs.” VCAHospitals.com
• Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. “Insects as Pet Food: Pros and Cons.” Tufts.edu