Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? A Canine Nutritionist explains
It's a scene many dog owners are familiar with: your dog suddenly stops during a walk, sniffs around, and starts munching on grass. While it might seem strange, grass-eating is a common behavior in dogs. In this blog, we’ll explore why dogs eat grass, when it’s a concern, and provide a "Grass-Eating Diary" to help track and understand your dog's grazing habits.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Micronutrient Needs: Dogs may instinctively eat grass to address minor nutritional deficiencies. While dogs are primarily carnivorous, they occasionally seek out plants, especially if they lack essential fiber or specific vitamins. Dogs on diets low in fiber or other nutrients may instinctively munch on grass to make up for the shortfall.
Natural Fiber Source: Grass contains fiber, which can help with digestion. Dogs that experience irregular digestion may eat grass to encourage more regular bowel movements.
2. Digestive Aid
Soothing the Stomach: Some dogs eat grass when they feel mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Grass might help to either stimulate vomiting or pass something uncomfortable through the digestive tract, which is why you might observe your dog eating grass and vomiting shortly afterward.
Improving Gut Health: Eating grass may act as a natural way for dogs to increase saliva production, which can soothe an upset stomach and balance gut flora.
3. Behavioral and Psychological Reasons
Boredom: Dogs that are bored or under-stimulated may turn to grass as an activity. Eating grass could be a form of "self-soothing," particularly for dogs that spend a lot of time alone or lack stimulating toys and exercise.
Natural Instinct: While modern dogs are domesticated, their ancestors often consumed plant material to add variety to their diet. Wild canines ate prey animals' stomach contents, which included plants and grasses.
4. Curiosity or Habit
Sensory Exploration: Dogs explore the world through taste and smell, and sometimes they eat grass simply because it’s a new experience. Puppies especially may try eating grass out of curiosity.
Habit: If a dog has eaten grass in the past to alleviate discomfort or pass the time, it may continue doing so out of habit, even when the original reason no longer applies.
5. Does Your Dog Just Like Grass?
Some dogs simply enjoy the taste and texture of grass! For some, it’s like a fresh, crunchy snack that they can’t resist. Fresh Spring grass is actually very sweet and therefore extremely palatable for dogs.
When Should You Worry About Grass Eating?
In most cases, grass-eating is harmless. However, there are times when it might indicate an underlying health issue:
Frequent Vomiting After Eating Grass: Occasional vomiting isn’t typically a concern, but if your dog vomits frequently or shows signs of distress, consult your vet.
Signs of Digestive Distress: Persistent diarrhea, bloating, or constipation should prompt a veterinary visit, especially if accompanied by grass-eating.
Changes in Behavior: If your dog’s grass-eating is new, sudden, or excessive, it’s wise to check in with a vet to rule out any medical causes.
Weight Changes: If you notice your dog excessively eating grass and this is accompanied with weight loss you should seek veterinary advice
Keeping a Grass-Eating Diary for Your Dog
Tracking your dog's grass-eating behavior can help you and your veterinarian understand any patterns and determine if action is needed. Below, you’ll find a "Grass-Eating Diary" template to fill out each time your dog eats grass.
Instructions: Each time you notice your dog eating grass make a note of where, the time, how much did they eat and was their vomiting.
Examples of "Other Notes":
Stomach Upset: If your dog appeared bloated, gassy, or uncomfortable.
Dietary Info: Any changes to your dog’s food or treats recently.
Weather and Temperature: Sometimes dogs are more likely to eat grass in cooler weather or after rainfall.
Practical Tips for Managing Grass-Eating Behavior
Regular Vet Checkups: Routine veterinary care can catch deficiencies early, so your dog is less likely to seek out grass for nutrients.
Diet Adjustments: Speak with a veterinarian about adjusting your dog’s diet to ensure they’re getting adequate fiber, vitamins, and minerals. If other symptoms are present a full health check for any underlying health concerns may be needed.
More Stimulation: Dogs that eat grass out of boredom may benefit from more toys, playtime, and exercise.
Choose Safe Grass: If your dog eats grass, try to ensure it's in a pesticide-free area. Pesticides and herbicides can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
Wrapping It Up
While grass-eating is usually a harmless and natural behavior in dogs, keeping a Grass-Eating Diary can help you monitor your dog's health and behavior patterns. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior, you can help ensure your dog's health and happiness.
If you have any concerns about your dog’s grass-eating, contact your veterinarian. Sometimes, a minor adjustment to their diet or routine can make a world of difference!