Has anyone heard of cobbing in dogs? I noticed my pup softly biting and grooming a lot, mostly blankets and her plush toys. Is this normal, or should I be concerned about it being some stress thing?

Hey there! It sounds like your pup is engaging in something we often call cobbing, which is when dogs gently nibble or groom objects like blankets and toys. This is generally normal behavior, especially in puppies or younger dogs. It’s kind of their way of exploring or soothing themselves. So, a bit of cobbing is usually nothing to worry about!

However, keep an eye out for a few things just to be safe:

• Check if your pup is excessively biting on things, especially if it causes damage or if they start chewing on non-toy items.
• Look for signs of stress or anxiety, like hiding, whining, or destructive chewing.
• If your dog starts chewing and swallowing inappropriate items, that could be risky—watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of appetite.

In terms of emergencies, there's usually no need to panic if your pup is just gently nibbling toys. However, here’s when you should consider a vet visit:

• Your dog eats something harmful (like chocolate, grapes, or anything toxic). For dogs, even small amounts of these can be dangerous.
• If they seem distressed or are not behaving like themselves.

At home, make sure your pup has plenty of safe toys to nibble on, and try to redirect them if they're chewing on something they shouldn't be. Also, providing some mental and physical enrichment can help if their nibbling stems from boredom.

But remember, if you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.