Unraveling the Mystery: Why Dogs Eat Grass

Have you ever wondered, “Why does my dog eat grass?” It can be an unnerving experience to see your furry friend suddenly start chomping on your lawn. Even still, it isn't always a reason to be worried for your dog's health. Most vets I’ve asked about eating grass say it’s OK if our dogs eat a little bit of grass. Today on a hike, my dog Walter couldn’t get enough of it, and it made me wonder if other dog owners have questions about this, as well. Keep reading to learn more about dogs eating grass, why they do it, and how to help them.

Reasons for Grass-Eating 

Understanding why dogs eat grass is a puzzle that has intrigued pet owners and veterinarians alike. One common belief is that dogs may eat grass due to nutritional deficiencies in their diet. Grass could provide essential nutrients, such as fiber and certain vitamins, that may be lacking in their regular meals. Another possibility is that dogs consume grass as a means to soothe digestive issues, such as food poisoning or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To our furry friends, grass can be their version of Pepto Bismol! Learning what to feed a dog with IBD can help your dog resolve these issues from the inside out. 

Additionally, some experts suggest that grass-eating is a natural instinct inherited from their ancestors. While our pets are domesticated, of course, their ancestors were wild dogs with very different eating habits! Vegetation was likely a key part of their diets, and it’s deep in their blood to maintain this habit. Finally, a grass-eating habit could also be due to psychological reasons like separation anxiety. Chewing on the grass can stimulate their minds, so they're not thinking about how much they miss us when we're away!

Should I Let My Dog Eat Grass?

So if your dog vomits, don’t panic – the grass may tickle their stomach lining. But if your dog is eating large amounts of grass, it might be time to see your veterinarian to see if your dog has Pica. Pica is a medical issue referring to a dog’s craving of a non-food item and the subsequent eating of said item. 

I also caution dog owners to limit the types of grass their dogs consume, as some people use chemicals and fertilizers that could be toxic to dogs. If you have concerns that your dog might have consumed chemicals during their grass snacking, you can contact the ASPCA for advice.

How to Address Grass Eating Behavior:

Now that we’ve answered the question of “Why do dogs eat grass,” you may be left with another question: “What's a pet parent to do when addressing this habit?” One way to tackle this is by making subtle changes to your dog's diet. Chat with your vet about potentially adding more fiber-rich foods or supplements to their meals, because who doesn't love a little dietary upgrade? Giving your pets a nutritious diet of natural dog food can help ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need. Secondly, keep your pup entertained with plenty of chew toys and interactive playtime to redirect their attention away from the grass buffet. Boredom can be a driving factor for this behavior, and tiring them out can help nip this habit. Finally, efficient dog training methods can be a helpful way to keep your dog’s grass-eating under control. 

Optimize Your Dog’s Nutrition with Darwin’s

At Darwin’s, we take your pet’s health seriously, because we know you do, too. That’s why we’re proud to offer a diverse array of raw dog food products to ensure your dogs are the happiest and healthiest they can be. Explore our full range of product offerings today to take your pet’s health to the next level!