Most owners have experienced this at some point. Your dog is walking along fine and all of a sudden they stop and start eating grass! You try to drag them away but they will go back to it. It looks odd.
I have had dogs over the years that have done this. Some just nibble at it whereas others will eat it almost every walk. Most of the time it is nothing to worry about. However there are definite cases when you should be paying attention.
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Why do dogs eat grass?
There is no one perfect answer to this question. Dogs eat grass for many reasons.
Some dogs just love the taste. Spring grass can be very soft and slightly sweet. My last dog would always rush to eat the fresh patches after rain. He never got ill from it he just loved the crunchiness.
Another reason is boredom. If a dog isn’t getting enough exercise or mental stimulation they will chew on things. Grass is easy to eat and available all the time. I have noticed this more in dogs that live in an apartment and only go out twice a day. They become bored quicker.
Some dogs will vomit shortly after. Not all but enough to notice. It looks as if they are trying to make themselves sick.
Instinct. Dogs are not pure carnivores in the wild. Their ancestors would sometimes eat plants. Therefore it doesn’t feel unnatural to them to eat some grass.
Very rarely it can be due to low fibre in their food. However if you are feeding them good quality food this is less common. Most commercial foods have enough fibre in them for a normal dog.
Is it normal for dogs to eat grass?
Yes. Many healthy dogs will eat grass regularly and it won’t cause any issues. It becomes an issue if they start eating a lot more suddenly or other issues start to occur.
I have had dogs that eat grass almost everyday and they haven’t had any issues. However I have also had dogs where it was one of the first signs something was wrong. It tends to be more sudden.
When should I be worried?
If they are doing any of the following:
- Eating constantly and appears restless.
- Vomiting almost every time.
- Other issues occurring such as not eating properly, loose stools, low energy, losing weight.
- Grass from a lawn that has been sprayed.
- Eating other non-food items.
If there is blood or odd looking vomit or they started suddenly and are eating a lot then it is best to get it checked. Don’t leave it too long. It is better to have a quick check with the vet.
What can I do?
Firstly just observe over the next few days. How often are they eating the grass? Are they vomiting after? This will give you a better idea.
Look at their food. Sometimes changing to a higher quality food can help. Add some plain pumpkin to their food. Some dogs benefit from this if they seem to need more fibre. Don’t overdo it.
Generally if you increase their walks and play they will become less bored. Dogs who get enough exercise and mental stimulation are less likely to chew on grass. Teaching them a good leave it command can also help. Especially if they are in public parks and the grass may have been treated.
If they really want to graze some people will grow a small patch of safe dog grass to let them eat. This means they can eat without worrying about chemicals. Obviously avoid any lawns that you know have been sprayed with pesticides or fertilisers.
Can it harm my dog?
Usually not. The only real issues would be chemicals, parasites or them eating too much and causing them to vomit and become dehydrated. Blockages from eating too much are rare but can happen if they have eaten a large amount.
Most dogs that eat a little grass occasionally will not have any issues.
Final Thoughts
Most dogs will eat grass because they enjoy the taste, they are bored, their stomach is off or just instinct. Many will eat it occasionally.
As long as they aren’t eating too much and they are otherwise healthy and acting normally there is nothing to worry about. If they are eating a lot more or other issues occur then get a vets opinion.
Note: This is based on common dog behaviour and my own experience with dogs. It is not professional veterinary advice. If your dog appears unwell or the behaviour changes suddenly please consult a vet.
FAQs
Is it bad if my dog eats grass everyday?
Not necessarily. Some dogs will eat it everyday and be perfectly fine. Just keep an eye out for any other changes.
Why does my dog eat grass and then vomit?
Some dogs will eat grass to make themselves sick. If it is happening a lot it is worth getting checked by a vet.
Should I stop my dog eating grass?
Only if the grass may have chemicals on. Otherwise it is usually fine for most dogs to eat a little.
Do all dogs eat grass?
No. Some dogs will never eat it. Both are perfectly normal.