Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Understanding the Behaviour and How to Manage It Positively
Many dog owners have observed their dogs munching on grass, often wondering if it signals illness, boredom, or a nutritional deficiency. While eating grass can seem puzzling, it is a common behaviour in dogs with several explanations. In this post, we will explore why dogs eat grass, whether it is harmful, and how to manage the behaviour using positive training methods.
The History of Grass Eating in Dogs
Dogs, like their wild ancestors, are natural scavengers, meaning they eat a variety of foods beyond just meat. Wolves and wild canines have been observed consuming plant material, including grass, as part of their diet. Some researchers believe that eating grass helps to naturally expel intestinal parasites or aid digestion.
Dogs are opportunistic eaters and often explore their world with their mouths. Eating grass may simply be a leftover instinct from their evolutionary past when their diet was more varied and included plant matter. Some studies suggest that wild canines consume grass regularly, to supplement their diet with fibre or micronutrients found in plant matter.
Dogs are natural scavengers, with some owners observing dogs scavenging for fruits, vegetables, food we’ve left out, etc.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
While no single reason applies to all dogs, there are several explanations:
Digestive Aid – Some dogs may eat grass to help with digestion or to induce vomiting when they feel unwell. However, studies show that most dogs do not vomit after eating grass, suggesting that this is not always the primary reason.
Nutritional Deficiency – Dogs lacking fibre in their diet may seek out grass to supplement their intake. A diet low in fibre can lead to digestive discomfort, and eating grass may be a way for them to compensate.
Boredom or Exploration – Just like chewing on toys or sticks, some dogs eat grass simply because they are bored or enjoy the texture. Dogs left alone for long periods or those with insufficient enrichment may turn to grass-eating as an activity.
Taste and Enjoyment – Some dogs genuinely like the taste and texture of fresh grass, especially if it is young and tender. Just as humans enjoy certain flavors, dogs may have personal preferences for certain types of grass.
Instinctual Behaviour – Wild canines eat plants as part of their natural diet, so domestic dogs may inherit this tendency. Eating grass could be a way for dogs to seek out micronutrients or beneficial plant compounds. Some pet owners report that their dogs selectively eat specific types of grass, indicating an instinctual attraction to certain plant properties.
Stress or Anxiety – Some dogs engage in repetitive behaviours, such as licking, chewing, or eating grass, when they are stressed. If a dog eats grass excessively, it may be a sign of underlying anxiety or nervousness.
Gastrointestinal Upset – In some cases, grass-eating may be linked to mild stomach discomfort. Dogs may instinctively seek out grass to help move irritants through their digestive system, similar to how humans consume herbal teas to ease an upset stomach.
Hydration and Moisture – In warm weather, dogs may eat grass because it contains moisture. Some dogs might prefer eating damp or dewy grass in the morning, suggesting a possible connection between hydration and grass consumption.
Is Eating Grass Harmful?
In most cases, occasional grass-eating is harmless. However, there are some concerns to be aware of:
Pesticides and Chemicals – Grass treated with fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides can be toxic to dogs. Always ensure your dog is not eating chemically treated grass.
Parasites – Grass in public areas may be contaminated with parasites from other animals’ feces. Regular deworming and monitoring your dog’s health can help mitigate risks.
Excessive Consumption – If your dog obsessively eats large amounts of grass, it could indicate an underlying medical issue, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or pica (a disorder where animals crave non-food items). In such cases, a veterinary check-up is recommended.
Vomiting After Eating Grass – While some dogs vomit after eating grass, frequent occurrences should be investigated to rule out digestive issues or other medical concerns.
How to Manage Grass-Eating Positively
Rather than punishing your dog for eating grass, consider using positive reinforcement techniques to manage and redirect the behaviour.
1. Provide a Balanced Diet
Ensuring your dog has a well-rounded diet with sufficient fibre can reduce their need to seek out additional plant material. High-fibre vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, and green beans can be healthy additions to their meals. Consulting your vet about diet adjustments can help ensure your dog gets all necessary nutrients.
2. Increase Mental and Physical Stimulation
If boredom is the cause, engaging your dog in more activities can help curb the behaviour. Try:
- Interactive toys and puzzle feeders
- Daily walks in varied environments
- Training sessions and enrichment games
- Canine sports such as agility or scent work
3. Train the “Leave It” Command
Training your dog to respond to a “leave it” cue can help you redirect them away from eating grass when necessary. Reward them with a treat or toy when they choose to move away from the grass.
4. Provide Safe Alternatives
If your dog enjoys eating grass, consider growing pet-safe plants or offering safe greens like wheatgrass, parsley, or spinach. These can provide a controlled way for your dog to satisfy their craving for plant material while ensuring safety.
5. Address Stress and Anxiety
If grass-eating is linked to stress, identifying, and addressing the source of anxiety is important. Providing a calm environment, using interactive toys, and ensuring your dog feels secure can reduce stress-related behaviours. Some dogs benefit from calming supplements or pheromone diffusers to help ease anxiety.
6. Monitor for Health Issues
If your dog suddenly starts eating substantial amounts of grass or exhibits other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy, consult a vet. Medical conditions like acid reflux, inflammatory bowel disease, or nutritional imbalances may contribute to increased grass consumption.
Final Thoughts
Eating grass is a natural behaviour for many dogs, and in most cases, it is nothing to worry about. However, monitoring your dog’s behaviour and ensuring they have a balanced diet, mental stimulation, and a stress-free environment can help manage excessive grass-eating. As always, if you notice sudden changes or excessive consumption, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.