Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

Is It Normal?

Sometimes, dogs like to eat grass, and this is completely normal! Many dogs do it, and you might see your dog nibbling on grass during a walk or in the yard. It usually doesn’t harm them, although it can look a bit funny.

Reasons Dogs Eat Grass

• Curiosity or Play: Dogs may eat grass simply because they are curious or playing.
• Exploring the World: It’s a way for them to explore their environment, much like their wild ancestors.
• Tummy Troubles: Grass might help them feel better if their stomach is upset.

If your dog eats a lot of grass and seems sick, such as throwing up or appearing very tired, you should consult your vet. Most of the time, eating grass is harmless and just something dogs do. Understanding why dogs eat grass can help you feel more at ease when you see it happening.

Dogs may also eat grass because they enjoy the taste or texture. Chewing on something different can be fun for them, and grass is easily accessible. Just like people might enjoy a crunchy snack, dogs might like how grass feels when they chew it. This behavior is part of their natural instincts, and as long as it doesn’t lead to health problems, it is usually nothing to worry about.

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

There are a few common explanations for why dogs eat grass:

• Nutritional Needs: Some dogs eat grass because they might be missing something in their diet. Grass contains fiber, which helps with digestion, and dogs might instinctively know this. If your dog’s diet lacks sufficient fiber or other nutrients, they may be using grass as a supplement to make up for it. This natural behavior is similar to how some people crave certain foods when they are low on specific nutrients.
• Ancestral Behavior: Eating grass could be linked to their wild ancestry. Wild dogs and wolves eat the entire animal they catch, including the stomach contents, which often contain plants. This behavior may have been passed down to domesticated dogs. In the wild, eating plant material from the stomach of prey provided essential nutrients. Today’s dogs might not need this, but the instinct may still remain. This inherited trait means that eating grass is a normal, instinctual behavior for many dogs, even if their diet is already balanced.
• Tummy Troubles: Some dogs eat grass when their stomach feels upset. Grass may help them throw up and feel better, acting as a form of self-treatment for minor stomach discomfort. If your dog seems to be eating grass only to vomit, it may indicate that they are experiencing nausea or indigestion. While this might not be a cause for immediate concern, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them and consult with your vet if it happens often.
• Boredom: Dogs might also eat grass simply because they’re bored. If they don’t have enough things to do, they might start eating grass to pass the time. Dogs need mental and physical stimulation, and without enough activities, they can become bored and develop habits like grass-eating. Providing plenty of toys and interactive play can reduce their boredom and redirect their energy in a positive way.
• Habit or Enjoyment: Some dogs just enjoy the act of chewing on grass. It may be that they like the texture or the sensation of chewing something different. Grass is readily available, and many dogs simply enjoy how it feels. This behavior is not harmful if done occasionally and can be part of a dog's way of interacting with the world.

When Should You Worry?

Generally, it’s okay if your dog eats a little grass now and then.

However, if your dog is eating grass frequently and seems to get sick, it could indicate an upset stomach. If they throw up a lot or have diarrhea after eating grass, it’s a good idea to consult your vet. Excessive grass consumption could mean there’s a more significant issue, and your vet can help determine what’s happening.

If your dog seems unusually tired, refuses to eat, or appears unwell, it could be more than just eating grass. It’s important to monitor them closely. A veterinarian can help identify any underlying health problems and ensure your dog is getting the right nutrients. Sometimes, grass-eating can be a sign of a nutritional deficiency, so your vet may recommend changes to their diet to ensure it’s balanced and meets all of their needs.

Pay attention to how often and how much grass your dog eats. A little nibble here and there is probably fine, but if they’re eating large amounts or doing it every time they go outside, it’s worth taking note. Excessive grass-eating might mean your dog is feeling anxious or stressed, and addressing the root cause can help them feel better. Stress can be caused by changes in the household, lack of exercise, or even separation anxiety. Identifying the source of stress and providing comfort and care can reduce this behavior.

Another thing to keep an eye out for is the type of grass your dog is eating. If your dog eats grass from areas treated with chemicals like pesticides or herbicides, it could be dangerous for them. Always make sure that your dog is nibbling on untreated, dog-safe grass to avoid accidental poisoning.

How to Help Your Dog Stop Eating Grass

If you want to help your dog stop eating grass, ensure they’re getting a balanced diet that meets all their nutritional needs. Ask your vet about the best food for your dog. A well-balanced diet can reduce the urge to eat grass, as high-quality dog food with enough fiber and nutrients helps keep their digestive system healthy.

Preventing Boredom

Dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy:

• Provide toys, play with them, and engage in training games to keep them occupied.
• Games like fetch or hide-and-seek can keep their minds active and reduce boredom-related behaviors like grass-eating.
• Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and activities that challenge their minds can be very effective in preventing boredom. Dogs that are mentally stimulated are less likely to develop habits like eating grass out of boredom.

Chew Toys and Alternatives

You can also give your dog chew toys to satisfy their urge to chew without resorting to grass:

• Chew toys are a great way for dogs to fulfill their chewing instincts safely. There are many types of chew toys, including rubber bones, rawhide alternatives, and toys designed to be stuffed with treats. These can keep dogs engaged and prevent them from chewing on grass.
• Providing different textures in chew toys can also be helpful, as some dogs may be seeking the unique feeling that grass provides. Rotating the types of chew toys keeps things interesting for them.

Yard Safety

If you have a yard, make sure it’s free from dangerous chemicals like bug spray or plant food that could harm your dog if they eat the grass:

• Using dog-safe products in your yard is crucial for their safety. If you use any treatments, make sure they are non-toxic and safe for pets.
• Consider setting aside a part of the yard specifically for your dog to explore, where you know it’s completely safe for them to chew on plants or grass if they want to.

Safe Exploration Area

Another idea is to create a designated area in your yard where your dog can explore safely:

• Plant dog-friendly herbs or grasses that are safe for them to chew on if they want to. This gives them a safe spot to explore and chew without getting into trouble.
• Spending time with your dog outside, playing and exploring together, can also help reduce their interest in eating grass out of boredom or loneliness. Dogs are social animals, and they enjoy interacting with their owners. Spending quality time with them outside can provide the stimulation they need.

Addressing Anxiety

If your dog is eating grass due to stress or anxiety, addressing the underlying issue is key:

• Providing a calming environment, plenty of exercise, and comfort during stressful situations can help reduce anxiety-driven behaviors. If anxiety persists, consult with a veterinarian or a dog behavior specialist for guidance.
• Exercise is also very effective in reducing stress. Daily walks, runs, or play sessions can help your dog release pent-up energy, leading to less anxiety and a lower likelihood of eating grass out of stress.

By providing good food, fun activities, and a safe place to play, you can help your dog stay happy and healthy, even if they still like to nibble on grass occasionally.

A happy, well-fed, and entertained dog is less likely to munch on grass and more likely to enjoy all the fun activities you do together. Remember that occasional grass-eating is often just a normal part of being a dog, and as long as it isn’t excessive or harmful, it’s nothing to worry about. Keeping your dog stimulated, well-fed, and stress-free can go a long way in reducing unwanted behaviors like grass-eating.