Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

What’s the deal with dogs acting like miniature lawn mowers? Munching on grass is pretty common for pups – in fact, more than 67% of people say that their dog eats grass on a weekly basis. The good news is that it’s common, it’s completely natural, and it’s generally considered safe by vets. But have you ever wondered why your dog does it?

Is eating grass a sign of sickness?

While many pet parents consider illness to be the most likely reason dogs eat grass, studies don’t necessarily support this theory. In one study, only 8% of the respondents reported seeing signs of illness before their dog ate grass, and of that group, only 22% reported that their dog vomited after doing so.

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In another study, researchers who compared the grass-eating behaviours of dogs with mild gastrointestinal disturbances to those without concluded that a healthy dog was more likely to eat grass than one with an upset stomach. Still, dogs do sometimes display anxious behaviours prior to eating grass, seeming to seek out longer grasses and eating them quickly, which stimulates the vomiting reflex.

We asked veterinary surgeon Dr Lizzie Youens, who said: “Dogs eating grass is common and usually nothing to worry about. However, if your dog eats grass often (more than once or twice a week), eats a lot of grass in one go, seems distressed or frantic before or after eating, or is sick then do contact your vet.”

Or, is eating grass normal dog behaviour?

It’s possible that dogs eat grass to pass the time or to aid in digestion, or because – here’s a shocker – the grass tastes good. It’s likely that eating grass is a natural behaviour for dogs, one passed down from their wild ancestors, wolves. Grass may even provide dogs with a source of fibre. Dr Youens adds: “If your dog is on a complete and balanced diet suitable for their lifestage, they should be provided with the correct amount of fibre that they need, but if your dog shows any signs of anal gland problems, constipation or other gastrointestinal symptoms, speak to your vet. Some dogs require a dietary adjustment or a fibre supplement.”

How to keep your grass dog-friendly

Create a dog-safe space

Don’t use pesticides that contain toxic chemicals, or consider making a special dog-safe space in your garden. Weedkillers, grass feeders and pest control chemicals are all potentially hugely toxic to dogs, and can linger in the environment.

Clean up poo

Reduce the risk of parasite transmission by making sure that your dog only eats grass in your own garden. Dispose of dog poo regularly, and consider making a pet-waste digester.

Beware of rough grasses

One caveat when it comes to grass consumption: long, rigid grasses with sharp edges have been known to cause throat abrasions. The oesophagus is sensitive and in some cases, dogs who eat this type of grass can experience a serious medical issue. Long blades of grass can also get lodged at the back of the throat. If your dog is coughing, gagging, pawing at their throat or showing signs of irritation after eating grass, it’s best to contact your vet immediately.

And, as always, if you have any concerns whatsoever, especially if your dog’s grass-eating seems excessive, persists for long periods of time, or if they aren’t eating normally, it’s best to have them assessed by your vet.