Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

Have you noticed your pooch snacking on grass? Here’s why your lawn suddenly seems as appetizing as kibble.

Every dog owner will sometimes chance upon their dog munching busily on a tuft of unappetizing, green grass. Even if you provide them with a tasty, healthy, and regular diet – and treats as well – they will still resort to eating grass! Even if they vomit because of that unsavory meal. Why on earth would they do that? Well, before you jump to conclusions, you need to know that there are some logical explanations involved. Dogs eating grass is a usual occurrence, and there are a number of reasons involved.

First things first – if you notice your dog eating grass, it could indicate that their diet lacks some important nutrients. The most common missing ingredient is fiber. If they lack enough of it in their diet, dogs will follow their natural instinct and go find it in the grass. Grass contains dietary fiber, also known as roughage, which is not often found in dog food – even though it is advertised as rich in fiber. Roughage is a fibrous indigestible material found in vegetable foods, and immensely aids in the passage of food, and is a vital part of their diet. It helps stimulate the intestinal tract and digestion, maintaining a healthy gut. This could be the simplest and foremost reason why dogs eat grass – to add that precious roughage they cannot find in their food.

Another reason for this odd behavior is possible health issues. Dogs will often depend on their natural instincts and follow them blindly. When they are feeling unwell or sick, they might resort to eating grass in order to induce vomiting and feel better. If their stomach is upset for any reason, they might munch on grass and vomit afterward. It is a normal natural instinct that can actually help often enough.

Then again, you should not be surprised to know that some doggos simply enjoy munching on grass. Who are we to judge, eh? Some dogs might simply enjoy the texture or the taste of grass. Still, make sure they don’t go eating dirty grass or the one that has been treated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals. It is important to understand that regular, healthy grass is not harmful to your dog.

However, you should start questioning your dog’s grass-eating habits only when they become too frequent. In such cases, it could be likely that there is a bigger, more serious underlying issue at hand. This could be a major missing piece in their diet, a psychological problem, or a particular health issue. Either way, that is the time to seek the help of a vet. Perhaps a major dietary change is needed, or a change in their habits. Sometimes, dogs that are bored and ignored will turn to eating grass to help pass time. Make sure that this does not happen by giving your doggo all the attention it needs and making sure their diet is as good as can be!