Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
If your dog is constantly eating grass and you’re concerned about why then you are not alone! In this UK Pets article, we have attempted to give you some of the answers as to why your dog may be displaying this behaviour so that you have a better understanding of what is going on inside your dog’s head when they decide to have a munch on your lawn.
Why does my dog eat grass?
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Will dogs eat grass try to clear their system?
Before your dog starts eating grass they will often not show any signs that they are ill or any symptoms that something could be wrong with them. In fact, eating grass is just a part of your dog's daily routine. However, dogs that are ill will sometimes eat grass in an attempt to clear out their systems. Dogs that do this will tend to swallow the grass as quickly as possible, without even taking the time to chew it. One theory behind this is that the long blades of grass will trigger their gag reflex, leading to an irritated stomach lining, and thus vomiting, it is virtually the dog equivalent of putting your fingers down your throat to induce vomiting. If your dog is continuously doing this, or if they are continuously vomiting after they are eating grass then you should seek the advice of a vet.
Will dogs eat grass due to a nutrient deficiency?
There is no evidence for this claim, however, it is thought that dogs may eat grass when their bodies detect that they have a natural nutrient deficiency. It seems unlikely that this is the case as many dogs that eat grass regularly are fed a commercially prepared, complete diet. This diet will consist of food that has been specially designed to give a dog all of the nutrients that they need, meaning that they should not be suffering from nutrient deficiency. However, this may explain why some dogs that are stray or dogs that get lost or run away may eat grass.
Will dogs eat grass as a source of fibre?
Just like humans, dogs need fibre in their diet so that their digestive systems can function effectively. A healthy diet for a dog will also require nutrients that are most commonly found in plants. Grass eating could be your dog’s way of adding roughage to their diet if their body feels that they are not getting enough. In order to combat this, to stop your pooch from ruining your garden, you can look to include some fruits or vegetables in your dog's diet. If you think your dog may have a deficiency then you can speak to a vet for further advice.
Will dogs eat grass if they think it tastes nice?
As odd as it might sound, the taste of grass may actually be nice for a dog. Although we as humans do not enjoy the taste, the tastebuds on a dog's tongue and in their mouth are completely different to ours, and they will find things that we find disgusting, such as grass or even poo, delicious. Despite this, dogs struggle to digest grass, and they will often throw it back up. To combat this you should try to stop your dog from eating grass and instead direct them more towards their actual food.
Will dogs eat grass because of Intestinal worms?
Dogs that regularly eat grass are usually at a higher risk of picking up worms, even if they didn’t have them to begin with. This is why it is so important that if you have a dog that regularly eats grass you need to keep them wormed. You can get your flea and worming medication from PocketVet via a subscription service. Once this is set up your pet’s medication automatically arrives when it is next due. One less thing to remember!
Will dogs eat grass due to boredom or anxiety?
Some dogs may be suffering from anxiety or just boredom, much in the same way as a person can. When they are bored or anxious then they can develop habits, much in the same way as we would do things such as biting our nails. If you believe your dog is suffering from boredom or anxiety then you need to ensure you are keeping them entertained by giving them plenty of exercises and by playing with them. One of the best things you can do is purchase a delayed feeder. Doing this will stimulate your dog mentally, and will reward them with healthy food that they can digest, unlike grass.
Should I worry if my dog eats grass?
For the majority of the time, you do not need to worry if your dog is eating grass, as long as it has not been sprayed or treated with harmful pesticides. If you feel like your dog's grass-eating habit has gotten out of control, if your dog is constantly being unwell due to eating grass, or if they keep eating grass and they keep vomiting then you may wish to get in touch with a vet to get some further advice.
Speak to a vet at PocketVet today for expert, tailored advice.
