Greencross Vets Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass
Although every dog breed is different, there are certain behaviours and actions that tend to overlap – one of these being that dogs eat grass. There are a number of reasons why dogs eat grass. These include to add fibre to their diet, as a distraction from boredom, or to fill a void in their nutrition. Figuring out why your dog is eating grass is key if you have concerns about their behaviour or are hoping to train them out of it.
Health Benefits of Grass Eating
One of the reasons why dogs eat grass is because grass is roughage which contains dietary fibre. A lack of dietary fibre affects the dog’s ability to digest food and pass a bowel motion, so grass may be helping their bodily functions.
If you suspect the reason your dog eats grass is for dietary requirements, it is worth talking to a vet to help identify any gaps in their nutrition and how to help fill them in a way that’s better for your dogs overall wellbeing.
Because Your Dog Likes Eating Grass
Your dog may also be eating grass simply because they enjoy the taste or texture. You might find your dog only likes to eat grass when it’s ‘fresher’ during certain times of the year – this could indicate it is a taste or texture related habit.
Rest assured, eating grass usually isn’t harmful to your dog’s health. However, make sure you keep your pet away from grass that has been treated by pesticides or chemicals and never let them eat mowed grass clippings.
Rest assured, eating grass usually isn’t harmful to your dog’s health. However, make sure you keep your pet away from grass that has been treated by pesticides or chemicals and never let them eat mowed grass clippings.
To Induce Vomiting
The fact that dogs eat grass to induce vomiting is a commonly held myth. Only a small proportion of grass eating results in vomiting, suggesting that there are potentially other factors that cause the vomiting.
If your dog shows signs of discomfort and is eating grass, they may have a medical problem such as gastric reflux, inflammatory bowel disease, or pancreatitis. It would be best to see your veterinarian to rule out serious medical conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
Behavioural Issues
There’s also the chance that your dog is simply bored. If your dog is spending a lot of time alone at home, they may be eating grass to help pass the time.
To keep your dog entertained for long periods, make sure you provide them with chew toys to help relieve their boredom and ensure they are getting plenty of regular exercise.
Dogs Eating Grass FAQs
How do I stop my dogs eating grass?
If you’re concerned about your pet and want to know how to stop your dog eating grass, behaviour modification is likely to be the most successful method, however we recommend you chat to your vet first.
When your dog starts to eat grass, redirect them to something else then reward them with a treat. Over time, they will stop needing the treat and adjust their actions accordingly. ‘Treating’ your dog may be food oriented, or simple verbal or physical affection, depending on what motivates your dog.
It’s always best to check with your vet if you are concerned about how much grass your dog is consuming before correcting their behaviour as there may be a root cause that needs medical attention.
What does eating grass do to dogs?
The answer to this question can depend on a range of factors like how much grass your dog eats, how often and the type of grass. For the most part, eating grass can be harmless for your dog.
In some cases, dogs eating grass can be harmful due to and pesticides that may be on it. If you can, you should stop your dog from eating grass in public areas where you are unsure when the grass was last sprayed or treated.
Why do dogs like eating grass?
Dogs like eating grass for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it may be to help supplement fibre missing from their diet, they may enjoy the taste or texture or due to boredom.
