From Canine to Cow: 5 Real Reasons Why Your Dog Is Eating Grass

Overview

You spend a lot of money on organic treats, high-quality kibble, and maybe even the occasional steak topper. But when you glance out into the backyard, you see your dog grazing like a little cow on the grass.

Most pet owners are left perplexed by the sight. Does their diet lack a certain nutrient? Do they feel ill? Or have they just suddenly become interested in landscaping?

Grass-eating is actually one of the most common behaviors reported by dog owners, although "pica"—the technical term for eating non-food items—can be concerning. The good news? For the most part, it's perfectly normal. Let's investigate why your dog is transforming your lawn into a salad bar.

1. The Myth (and Reality) of the "Upset Stomach"

The most widely held belief among dog owners is that when dogs are ill, they eat grass to induce vomiting. Research, however, reveals a different picture.

Less than 10% of dogs appear sick before eating grass, and less than 25% of them vomit afterward, according to studies. Most dogs don't use grass as a natural emetic because it makes them feel sick, but some do. Your dog may be self-treating an upset stomach if they are eating grass in a panic and then throwing up. But if they're just grazing? Most likely, they are simply having fun.

2. A Natural Ancestral Behavior

Dogs' wild ancestors, wolves and wild dogs, were scavengers before they were treated like roommates. They frequently ate their prey whole, including the stomach contents of herbivores, which were filled with fermented grass and plants.

As part of their ancestral "whole prey" diet, dogs may still be biologically inclined to eat plants. In essence, it's an ancient desire that hasn't completely vanished from their DNA.

3. Looking for Roughage and Fiber

Sometimes the most straightforward explanation is the best one: your dog may simply require a little more fiber. One excellent source of roughage is grass. Dogs may naturally look for grass to "bulk up" their stool and keep things moving if their digestive tract isn't functioning as well as it should.

It may be worthwhile to determine whether their current diet offers adequate fiber or whether they require a digestive supplement if you observe an abrupt increase in grazing.

4. Entertainment and Boredom

The power of boredom should never be undervalued. Pulling up grass can be a fun, tactile activity for a dog who is bored and spends hours in the backyard. Similar to how a person might idly munch on popcorn while watching a movie, it's a way to kill time.

Your dog may simply need more interactive toys or a little more playtime with you if they only eat grass when they are by themselves outside.

5. They Enjoy the Taste

As odd as it may seem to us, a lot of dogs just like the texture and flavor of new spring grass. Your dog may be "picky" about their grass, preferring the tall, succulent blades to the dry, brown patches. They see it as an easily accessible, crunchy, and fresh snack.

When Is It Time to Worry?

The environment is the true concern, even though eating grass is typically harmless.

• Herbicides and pesticides: Chemicals that are poisonous to dogs are used to treat a lot of lawns in America. Don't let your dog graze on a lawn if you're unsure if it's "organic" or untreated.

• Intestinal Parasites: Microscopic eggs from the excrement of other animals, such as roundworms or hookworms, can conceal themselves in grass. Make sure your dog is taking a parasite preventative on a regular basis.

• Toxic Plants: Make sure there are no poisonous plants in your yard, such as azaleas or sago palms, which your dog might inadvertently consume while eating grass.

In conclusion, follow your instincts (and theirs).

When it comes to dog eccentricities, eating grass is not a major concern. There's no need to freak out as long as your dog is eating a healthy diet, getting regular veterinary checkups, and grazing on grass free of chemicals. They are simply being dogs—part scavenger, part predator, and sometimes even part lawnmower.

Does your dog only graze during specific seasons, or does it have a favorite "spot"? Let's discuss your "canine cows" in the comments section!