Why do dogs eat grass? Understanding the behaviour and what you can do about it.
Dogs are known for their quirky behaviours, one of which is their tendency to munch on grass. For many dog owners, this habit raises concerns about their pet’s health and well-being. Is it normal for dogs to eat grass? Could it indicate a health issue? What, if anything, should be done about it? In this blog, we’ll explore the various reasons behind why dogs eat grass and what, if any, actions you should take.
Why do dogs eat grass?
- A Need for chlorophyll
Chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants, is known for its detoxifying properties. Dogs may instinctively eat grass to benefit from its chlorophyll content. This natural craving could be linked to an ancestral dietary need. Dogs in the wild, including wolves, often eat the stomach contents of herbivores, indirectly consuming grass and plants. Therefore, eating grass could be a natural behaviour that persists even in domesticated dogs. - Seeking dietary fibre
Another common reason for grass-eating in dogs is the need for dietary fibre. Grass contains a significant amount of fibre, which can aid digestion and regulate bowel movements. If a dog’s diet is low in fibre it might turn to grass as a natural supplement. By eating grass, your dog could be self-regulating its digestive system, seeking relief from constipation or other gastrointestinal discomforts. - Emotional and psychological reasons
Just like humans, dogs can experience emotional stress and anxiety. Eating grass might be a coping mechanism for dogs feeling anxious, bored, or stressed. The repetitive action of munching on grass can have a calming effect, helping them to relieve tension. In some cases, dogs may also eat grass simply because they enjoy it. The texture, taste, and sensation of chewing on grass could provide them with comfort or entertainment, especially if they are not getting enough mental stimulation. - Behavioural reasons
Grass eating might also be a learned behaviour. If a dog observes other dogs eating grass, it may mimic this action out of curiosity. Similarly, if a dog is frequently left alone or feels neglected, it might turn to grass-eating as a form of self-amusement. Dogs are highly social creatures, and in the absence of interaction or play, they might develop habits that fill their time and provide them with stimulation. - Grass and vomiting: A natural purge?
One of the more widely accepted theories is the connection between grass eating and vomiting. Many dog owners have noticed that their dogs vomit shortly after eating grass. This leads to the belief that dogs use grass to induce vomiting when they feel unwell, as a way to cleanse their stomach of something that may be causing discomfort. The rough texture of grass blades can irritate the stomach lining, triggering a vomit reflex. However, not all dogs vomit after eating grass, and not all dogs eat grass to induce vomiting, which suggests that while there might be a connection, it’s not the sole reason for the behaviour.
Should you be concerned about your dog eating grass?
In most cases, grass-eating is considered a normal behaviour for dogs and is not something to be overly concerned about. However, there are a few scenarios where it may warrant attention:
- Frequent vomiting: If your dog eats grass and vomits regularly, it could indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue or dietary imbalance that needs to be addressed.
- Eating toxic plants: Not all plants are safe for dogs. Ensure that the grass your dog has access to is free from pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals. Also, make sure your garden does not contain any toxic plants that could harm your dog if ingested.
- Obsession with grass eating: If your dog is eating grass obsessively or is showing signs of distress, anxiety, or other behavioural issues, it might be a symptom of a larger problem. Identifying and addressing the root cause, such as boredom, anxiety, or nutritional deficiencies, is important.
What can you do about it?
- Provide a balanced diet: Make sure your dog’s diet is well-balanced and includes all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and fibre, so a species appropriate diet is advised. Fibre rich foods or supplements like extra vegetables or Proflax Bottoms Up could help if you suspect a fibre deficiency.
- Offer regular exercise and mental stimulation: Dogs need regular physical activity and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Engage your dog in regular playtime, walks, and training sessions to keep it physically and mentally active. A well exercised dog is less likely to engage in boredom induced behaviours such as grass eating.
- Monitor your dogs environment: Keep an eye on the types of plants your dog has access to, both indoors and outdoors. Remove any toxic plants from your garden and avoid using chemicals on your lawn. If you live in an area where you can’t control the grass your dog eats, consider keeping them on a lead or in a designated area.
- Provide safe alternatives: If your dog enjoys chewing, consider offering safe chew toys or treats as alternatives to grass. Some dogs may chew on grass because they enjoy the activity, so providing a safer substitute can satisfy this urge.
- When to consult a vet: If your dog’s grass eating behaviour changes suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or weight loss, seek veterinary advice.
In conclusion, dogs eating grass is a natural and common behaviour with several potential explanations, from nutritional needs to emotional reasons. While it is generally harmless, understanding your dog’s behaviour and ensuring a safe environment can help maintain its health and happiness. Keep an eye on your your dog, provide a fresh, balanced diet, and seek veterinary advice if you notice any concerning changes.