Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

Does your dog eat grass? Most dog owners will have seen their dog eating grass at some point. It might be something that is worrying you. If your dog is healthy and likes to nibble at blades of grass, there’s probably no cause for concern. Read on to discover why dogs eat grass, when you should worry, and what you can do about it.

To Induce Vomiting

It’s commonly thought that dogs eat grass to make themselves vomit as a way of making themselves feel better because they are ill. Research has shown that this is not the case. Most dogs that like to eat grass are often perfectly healthy before they graze and don’t usually go on to throw up after the event. There is likely another reason that your dog is eating grass, although the blades of grass in their mouth and throat could well make them gag.

Your Dog Knows Eating Grass is Good for Them

It could be because instinct is telling your dog to eat grass. It could be good for your dog’s digestion or nature’s way of treating intestinal worms or parasites. Remember that dogs are omnivores and they eat meat and plant material. Wild or feral dogs would come into contact with plant material in the stomachs of their prey when they hunt and ate so it’s really not such a foreign object for your dog’s digestion.

Your Dog’s Diet Is Missing Something

Your dog could be eating grass because they need more roughage, a certain vitamin or nutrient which is found in grass, or fibre. If you are worried about your dog’s grazing, you could switch to a high-fibre dog food to see if that helps.

Your Dog Is Bored

If you think your dog might be eating grass out of boredom or to get your attention, you could take your dog for a walk, play in the garden with their favourite toy, or buy a new chew to capture his or her attention.

Your Dog Likes How Grass Feels and Tastes

Maybe your dog just likes the way grass tastes or feels, especially if it’s cool, moist and juicy and you feed them dry food. Many dogs love raw vegetables and will do anything for a bit of fruit or even salad, so why not grass?

Most experts agree that eating grass won’t do your dog any harm as long as the grass hasn’t been treated with herbicides or pesticides. Some plants can also be toxic to dogs so you do need to keep a close eye on your dog and discourage this behaviour. If your dog eats large quantities of grass, their grass-eating behaviour changes suddenly, or they show other signs of being unwell, you should consider talking to your vet. Otherwise, keep an eye on your dog and try not to worry.

If you think your dog might just be bored? Beat the boredom and explore Pettrotters premium range of pet toys to keep him or her entertained whilst you are at work.

References:

https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/why-do-dogs-eat-grass#1

http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-behavior/why-do-dogs-eat-grass

https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/evr_dg_eating_grass