Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? Is It Dangerous?

Why this is relevant: If you have ever observed your dog devouring some grasses on a stroll or from the backyard, you’ve most likely questioned to your self “Why do dogs eat grass?” And it sends many pet owners into a panic that this behavior indicates their pet is ill, or that they are lacking something in their diet. Some worry that it could be risky for their pet to eat grass.

In reality, dogs eating grass is a common and usually normal behavior. Most times, it is not a cause for concern, but in rare occasions it can signal a more serious condition. This article will walk you through why dogs may eat grass, if it is an issue to worry about and how to keep your four-legged friend safe.

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass: The Most Common Reasons

Different dogs, different personalities, different reasons for eating grass. For some dogs, it's an instinct; for others, it might be fulfilling a nutritional need; for others, it might simply be relishing the taste and texture. Now, here are the top 4 reasons why this becomes your behavior.

1. It’s a Natural Instinct

Dogs are related to wild canines, such as wolves and foxes, who sometimes eat plants. In the wild, animals eat grass and other vegetation for fiber, digestion, and in fact, something akin to a natural de-wormer. Even if your dog gets their nutrition from a balanced diet, they may be following this instinct.

2. To Aid Digestion

Grass has fiber that provides some assistance for digestion. Dogs that instinctively eat grass may be feeling mild queasiness, or may be bloated or constipated. As a natural remedy for mild digestive problems, the fiber in grass helps to regulate bowel movements.

3. To Induce Vomiting

Here is a theory that has been popular with the public — that dogs eat grass to induce vomiting when they feel ill. For some dogs, they would eat a lot of grass at once and then throw everything back up shortly afterwards.

But research articles report the majority of grass-eating dogs do not vomit afterwards. This indicates that although vomiting occurs, it is not always the main motivation for dogs to eat grass. However, if your dog often vomits after eating grass, it may be a sign of an underlying digestive issue that requires veterinary attention.

4. Out of Boredom or Anxiety

Much like humans develop nail-biting or gum-chewing habits, dogs eat grass when under boredom, stress, or anxiety. This often occurs in dogs that are not exercised enough bite and rage have not only physical and mental stimulus.

If your dog only eats grass when they are by themselves or feeling stressed, you may want to include additional play activity, walks, toys that require interacting with them, or training sessions to occupy their minds.

5. Simply Because They Like It

Some dogs chow down on grass simply for the taste, texture or sensation of chewing it. Dogs may be attracted to various kinds of grass, particularly new, green shoots. The reason, however, is mostly harmless – if your furry buddy eats grass with glee while showing no near signs of sickness, its simply a preference.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies

While this is not often the case, some specialists think that dogs eat grass due to a deficiency of a specific nutrient (fibre or minerals for instance). This is more typical of dogs that do not consume a well-balanced diet. If your dog routinely eats grass and has symptoms of malnourishment too, it might be worthwhile to consult with your vet if a food with a higher quality dog food or really fiber-rich foods may be beneficial.

Is grass eating harmful to dogs?

Most of the time, grass eating is harmless for dogs. However, pet parents should be wary of the following risks.

1. Being Exposed to Pesticides and Other Chemicals

Pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers that dogs can be exposed to on lawns are often toxic to dogs. Dogs that eat grass in an area where it has been treated, however, can swallow pesticides and other toxic chemicals which can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea or even poisoning in extreme circumstances.

Solution:

• Allow your dog to graze on grass only in areas where you know no chemicals have been used.
• Do not go to parks or public lawn where pesticides are being sprayed.

2. Parasites and Bacteria

Grass that your dog lays in in public places may contain parasites like roundworms, or bacteria such as E. coli that can make your dog ill. They can be transmitted through feces of other infected animals.

Solution:

• Refrain from letting your canine pluck grass on highly-trafficked locations.
• Be certain that your dog is on parasite prevention medications.

3. Risk of Intestinal Blockages

Some dogs do not simply munch on grass—they may devour sizable quantities, including robust blades or alternate vegetation. This may cause intestinal obstructions or choking, specifically when small dogs are involved.

Solution:

• Keep an eye on your dog when it eats grass and stop them eating too much.
• If you notice that your dog regularly eats large amounts, see a vet.

4. Poisonous Plants

Certain grasses even grow close to some plants that could be poisonous to dogs. Some plants, e.g. foxglove, oleander, and certain mushrooms, are poisonous when consumed.

Solution:

• Be aware of toxic plants and remove them from your yard.
• If you are exploring different outside areas, watch your dog.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While an occasional bout of grass-eating in dogs is normal, the following scenarios should be discussed with a veterinarian: 

🔴 Regular vomiting after eating grass – If vomiting is a persistent custom after eating grass, the reason might be a more serious digestive issue. 

🔴 Compulsory grass-eating behavior — If your dog seems to munch grass more than food, this may indicate a nutritional deficiency or underlying health concern.

🔴Other sick signs – Should your dog chew some grass, followed immediately by symptoms like diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, or a reduced appetite, contact the vet for an appointment. 

🔴Behavior Change — Sudden onset of eating grass, after having never done so in the past, is likely to indicate some subtle form of stress, boredom, or illness.

How To Prevent A Dog From Eating Grass

If you are concerned about your dog eating grass, here are some steps to help reduce or prevent eating grass:

1. Provide a Nutrient-Rich Diet

None of these require large amount of fiber, vitamins and minerals, so ensure that your dog food has enough. Switching your dog to a high-quality diet can help if the reason behind your dog eating grass is due to a nutritional deficiency.

2. More stimulation for your mind and your body

Dogs who eat grass are more likely to be bored. Try:

• More walks and playtime.
• Toys or puzzle feeders that stimulate the brain.
• Training sessions to keep them hooked

3. Offer Safe Alternatives

A few dogs simply like the grass itself. Instead, see if your pup is up for some crunchy vegetables that can be dog-safe such as carrots, lettuce, or even cucumbers!

4. Supervise Outdoor Time

To prevent your pup from eating too much grass, keep them leashed on walks or distract them with toys and treats.

5. Check for Stress or Anxiety

Anxiety may cause your dog to eat grass, but by identifying stress triggers and providing a relaxing environment, it can be avoided. Take into consideration calming supplements, relaxing audio, or behavioral training.

Final Thoughts

The most common and usually harmless cause of dogs vomiting is the consumption of grass. Some are instinctual, while others just enjoy the taste or do it to help with digestion. Nibbling is okay in moderation but beware of pesticides, parasites and toxic plants for pets.

A trip to the vet is warranted if your dog seems to be obsessed with eating grass, throws up regularly, or displays a range of other sickly symptoms. Aside from this, if one provides their dogs with a healthy diet about right amount of food and some exercises also perform their daily duties may help in hiding this behavior.