Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? How Normal Is It?
Have you ever been on a walk with your pup when, all of a sudden, they stop by a yard or a field and start munching on long blades of grass? No, your dog hasn’t suddenly turned into a grazing animal, but this behavior can seem alarming. Usually, it’s perfectly normal.
Common Reasons Dogs Eat Grass
- It’s instinctual: Wolves and early dogs consumed plant matter from the stomachs of their prey or scavenged berries and other plants. Some dogs still have this ancestral urge.
- An upset stomach: Grass can trigger vomiting, which may help your pup feel better, although most don’t vomit afterward.
- Stress, boredom, or attention-seeking: Grass-eating can be a self-soothing habit, especially during walks. If it’s attention-seeking, gently redirect with a “heel” command or toy, and increase mental enrichment.
- Curiosity or taste: Your four-legged companion simply likes the texture or flavor of grass.
- A fiber boost: If their diet is low in fiber, grass may help support digestion.
So, Is Eating Grass Normal Behavior?
For the most part, yes.
In an extensive survey of over 1,500 dogs whose owners reported on grass-eating habits, 68% ate grass daily or weekly, while only 8% acted sick before eating grass, and about 22% vomited afterward.
These patterns support the idea that grass eating is a common behavior in otherwise healthy dogs and not typically linked to sickness or dietary deficiency.
When Should You Worry?
If grass eating becomes obsessive, it may signal an underlying issue. This is especially concerning if it’s paired with lethargy, diarrhea, or frequent vomiting. In these cases, bring it to the attention of your veterinarian.
You should also be cautious around grass treated with pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals, as these can make your dog sick.
What Can You Do If Your Dog Is Eating Grass Obsessively?
Start by making sure their food is nutritionally complete. Look for diets that meet AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition for your dog’s life stage. Some pet parents add a nutritionally complete plant-based dog food as a topper, similar to a “salad” for dogs.
Disclaimer: Any diet changes should be thoughtful and discussed with a veterinarian.
Next, increase mental stimulation to reduce boredom-driven grass eating. This can include longer walks, sniffing time, training sessions, or interactive toys.
Lastly, if your dog does munch on grass, ensure it’s untreated and chemical-free.
Key Takeaways
Eating grass is usually normal behavior for dogs. They may do it out of instinct, to ease an upset stomach, due to boredom or stress, because they like the taste, or to get extra fiber. If grass eating becomes frequent or obsessive, however, it may signal an issue that warrants a call to your vet.
FAQs
Why do dogs eat grass and then vomit?
Some dogs eat grass to help settle an upset stomach. The grass may irritate the stomach lining, causing vomiting, which can help them feel better. That said, most dogs who eat grass do not vomit. In many cases, grass eating isn’t about nausea at all; it’s merely an instinctual habit.
Does grass-eating mean my dog has a nutrient deficiency?
Not typically. Studies with large sample sizes of over 1,500 dogs show that most dogs who eat grass are healthy and well-fed. While some dogs may seek fiber, grass-eating alone is not a reliable sign of a nutritional deficiency. If your dog eats a complete and balanced diet, a deficiency is unlikely.
Is it dangerous for dogs to eat treated grass?
Yes. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers can be harmful and may cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or more serious symptoms. Dogs should only have access to untreated grass. If your dog eats treated grass, rinse their paws and mouth with clean water and monitor for symptoms. If any symptoms appear, even mild ones, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
Should I stop my dog from eating grass altogether?
Not necessarily. Occasional grass eating is normal and usually harmless. You should intervene if it becomes frequent or obsessive, your dog shows signs of illness, or the grass consumed is chemically treated.