The curious case of why dogs are eating grass: 9 reasons explained

The Mystery of Why Dogs Are Eating Grass

If you’ve ever strolled through the park with your furry pal, chances are you’ve seen them stop to nibble on some grass. And you’re left standing there, leash in hand, scratching your head and wondering, “Why on earth is my meat-loving canine munching on greens?” Why dogs are eating grass is one of the most common questions I get as an Animal Naturopath.

Well, you’re not alone. This grass-eating behavior, known as pica, is a fairly common phenomenon among our canine friends. But the question remains: Why dogs are eating grass?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Just like humans, dogs have their unique quirks and behaviors. However, this grass-eating habit isn’t merely a dog being a dog. There are several theories that attempt to uncover the mystery behind this behavior.

Let’s chew on some of these ideas, shall we?

Reason 1: Instinctive Behavior

Have you ever been utterly baffled, watching your furry friend chomp down on grass like it’s the latest delicacy on their menu? Well, you’re not alone. This behavior might seem odd, but there’s a very primal reason behind it: instinct.

Instinctive behavior is a dog’s natural response to certain situations inherited from their wild ancestors. You see, before dogs became our cuddly pets, they were wild animals that had to fend for themselves. Eating grass was a part of their survival strategy.

• Grass contains essential nutrients that a dog might not get in its regular diet, especially if it’s a wild dog. Even though our domesticated companions have traded the wilderness for comfy beds and regular meals, that old instinct to supplement their diet with grass still lingers. We can this self-medication, and we see this in many species. This is an instinctual behavior.
• Grass helps in digestion. If a dog’s stomach is upset, it might eat grass to induce vomiting and get rid of whatever is causing the discomfort. It’s a natural remedy, handed down from their wild ancestors.

While eating grass is generally harmless, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your dog and ensure they’re not consuming anything harmful alongside the grass, like pesticides or poisonous plants. More about this below.

Reason 2: Nutritional Deficiencies

Imagine a world where you’re only allowed to eat one thing, day in and day out. Kind of boring, huh? Well, our four-legged friends might feel the same way about their dog food. I’m referring to commercial dry and wet food. Many experts believe that dogs might turn to grass when their regular diet isn’t providing all the nutrients they need, particularly fiber. This is also my opinion and belief. Minerals, like sulfer, zinc, magnesium and iodine are others.

What nutrients could they be lacking?

• Fiber: A key nutrient for digestion, it helps to keep their bowel movements regular. Without enough of it, dogs may resort to grass as a natural source. When dogs that are carnivores kill an animal, they do get fiber from the fur (hair) and some from the stomach of smaller prey.
• Minerals: Dogs need a balance of different minerals in their diet. If they’re not getting enough from their food, they might start munching on grass. I belive this is the main reason dogs self-medicate on grass (and dirt) to compensate for lack of minerals in their food. When dogs switch from kibble to raw many, observe much less grass eating.

But, how can you tell if your dog is eating grass due to nutritional deficiencies?

Look for other signs of nutritional issues, such as changes in appetite, weight loss, dull coat, itchy skin and other unusual behavior. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to consult with a holistic animal practitioner like and animal naturopath or holistic vet.

So, the next time you see your dog chowing down on some greenery, they might just be trying to tell you they need a little more variety in their diet! If your dog is kibble fed, try switching to a raw food diet. 

Reason 3: Upset Stomach

when your furry friend is chowing down on your lawn it may be due to an upset stomach. Yes, you heard it right. Dogs, in their own canine way, are actually quite intuitive when it comes to alleviating their digestive discomfort.

Gastrointestinal upset is one of the common reasons why dogs munch on grass. But what’s the science behind this? Let’s chew on this a bit.

Canines lack the necessary enzymes to break down grass, so it’s believed they consume it to induce vomiting when they’re feeling sick. This could be their primitive way of treating themselves when they’ve eaten something that doesn’t agree with their stomach.

Remember, occasional grass-eating isn’t a cause for concern. But if your dog is gorging on grass, then you should consult your vet.

While we humans may not find the idea of eating grass, particularly appealing to our canine companions, it’s a natural instinct. Isn’t it amazing how dogs have their unique way of dealing with things? This has always fascinated me. Sometimes my dogs want to go out, and they bolt over to the grassy area and start with conviction eating grass, I know that’s a sign of an upset stomach, and within a few minutes, they will puke. I feed raw so this happens to raw-fed dogs too. We walk out in the country between farm fields close to the forest, and many animals visit during the night. My dog’s noses are glued to the ground 80% of the time so it is unavoidable that they will not pick up something their digestive system does into agree with occasionally. In most cases, their scavenger and carnivorous stomach will kill most pathogens so I would never know, but once in a while something survives and cause havoc with their digestive system and need to come up by vomiting or in the form of diarrhea if it has passed through the stomach an into the digestive tract.

Reason 4: Boredom

Imagine being a dog for a moment. You’ve chased your tail, chewed on your favorite toy, and napped in your cozy bed. Yet, there’s still time to kill and a backyard full of grass. Wouldn’t you be tempted to nibble on some?

Boredom is a significant factor why dogs may resort to grazing. Unlike their human counterparts, dogs can’t flip through a magazine or binge-watch their favorite shows when they’re bored. Instead, they find alternative ways to occupy their time, and munching on greens can be one of them.

To understand this better, consider the following points:

1. Grass carries an interesting texture and taste: Dogs are naturally curious creatures. They often use their mouths to explore new textures and flavors. So, when they come across grass, they might find its crunchiness and fresh taste intriguing enough to snack on.
2. Grass can act as a pastime activity: Dogs, especially puppies, are full of energy. They need something to occupy their time, or they may resort to gnawing on furniture or other undesirable behaviors. Grass-eating can serve as a harmless distraction to keep them entertained.

However, while occasional grass-eating out of boredom isn’t a cause for concern, it’s crucial to ensure your furry friends have enough mental and physical stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and a varied diet can help in diverting their attention from the lawn. 

Note: If your dog is eating grass excessively, it may indicate a lack of proper exercise or enrichment. I can empesise enough how importat exercise is. After feeding the proper diet exercsise is in my opinion the most important part of caring for a dog. Not only for physical and menatal stimulation but also for your dogs health. The most important factor is the activation of the lymphatic system, that help the body purge toxins and chemicals. I see a huge difference in dogs that are active and go on one or two daily walks when it come to prevention of illness and recovery. The same works for humans.

Reason 5: Attention Seeking

Ever notice how your furry friend starts munching on grass when you’re too busy to play? Well, it could be their unique way of attracting your attention. Yes, your dog might be eating grass to ensure you shift your focus from that boring TV show to their fascinating grass-eating spectacle.

But, how does it work, you ask? Well, let’s dive right in:

• Breaking the Routine: When your dog does something out of the ordinary, like eating grass, it automatically triggers your concern. And voila, they have your attention! Dogs a re much smarter than you think!
• Provoking Reaction: Each time your dog eats grass and you react, they register it as a successful strategy. Essentially, your reaction, be it of concern, annoyance, or amusement, serves as a reward, encouraging the behavior.

So, next time your dog starts grazing, consider if they might be feeling a bit left out. Try spending more time with them, engage in their favorite play, or teach them new tricks. Remember, dogs thrive on attention and interaction, so a little bit of your time could go a long way in reducing their lawn-munching habits.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Seeking Attention
Eating grass in your presence
Incessantly following you around
Excessive barking or other unusual behavior

Remember, while occasional grass-eating is generally harmless, excessive consumption could indicate underlying issues. If you notice any drastic changes in your dog’s behavior, it’s always best to consult a animal health care professional.

Reason 6: Anxiety and Stress

While we often think of our furry friends as living the good life—lots of naps, belly rubs, and treats—dogs can experience anxiety and stress, too. This anxiety can manifest in a variety of ways, one of which is grass-eating. It’s akin to some human habits like nail-biting or hair twirling; a seemingly odd behavior that provides some level of comfort or distraction.

But what causes this stress in our pooches?

• Sudden changes: Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. A major alteration, such as moving to a new home or the arrival of a new family member (be it human or animal), can throw them off balance and cause stress.
• Loneliness: Dogs are social creatures and prolonged periods of solitude can lead to anxiety. This could result in unusual behaviors like eating grass when they’re finally let outside.
• Noise Phobia: An intense fear of loud noises can cause doggie stress. Thunderstorms, fireworks, or even a loud truck passing by can trigger this anxiety.

So, how can you tell if your dog’s grass eating is a result of anxiety?

Watch for other signs of stress in your dog. These could include excessive licking or chewing (of themselves, you, or objects around the house), loss of appetite, or changes in sleep patterns. If you notice these signs along with grass eating, it might be time to consult a animal health professional or a pet behaviorist.

Understanding our pets’ behaviors can sometimes feel like trying to decipher an alien language. But with a bit of knowledge and a whole lot of love, we can help them navigate their world and ensure they live happy, healthy lives.

Reason 7: Scent Attraction

Another reason could be scent attraction. Just like humans, dogs have their own unique set of likes and dislikes when it comes to smells. And believe it or not, the scent of grass can be quite appealing to some doggy noses.

Grass has a natural, earthy aroma that can be irresistible to dogs. It’s like the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air for us. This is particularly true with certain types of grass that have a stronger scent. Remember, dogs have an acute sense of smell – many times stronger than ours. So what might seem like just another patch of grass to us could be an olfactory paradise to them.

FACT: Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. In fact, dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to only about 6 million in humans. This means that dogs are able to detect scents that are much fainter than what humans can smell. For example, dogs can detect a teaspoon of sugar in a million gallons of water, which is equivalent to two Olympic-sized swimming pools. This is why dogs are often used for tasks such as detecting drugs, explosives, and even diseases like cancer.

• Dogs are attracted to the natural scent of grass.
• Some types of grass have a stronger scent which can be more appealing to dogs.
• Dogs have an acute sense of smell, making the scent of grass even more enticing to them.

In addition, dogs might also be attracted to the scent markers left by other dogs or animals on the grass. These scent markers tell a whole story about who’s been in the area and what they’ve been up to. It’s like a canine version of social media. So, the next time your dog starts grazing on your lawn, remember they might just be enjoying the fresh scent of grass or catching up on the latest neighborhood gossip.

It’s like a canine version of social media.

Reason 8: Natural Laxative

Ever notice how after a thorough chomping of the green stuff, your canine companion might have a quick dash to do their business? That’s no coincidence. Dogs inherently know that grass can serve as a natural laxative, aiding them in digestive issues.

But how does this work?

Grass has roughage and fiber that stimulate the intestinal tract, aiding in digestion and often speeding up the process – much like how we humans might reach for a high-fiber cereal to kickstart sluggish bowels.

It’s not only a modern phenomenon either. Dogs’ wild ancestors, the wolves, are known for consuming the stomach contents of their prey, which often includes plant matter. This could be a hard-wired instinct passed down through generations, a classic case of nature’s wisdom at work.

• Grass can boost fiber intake: Grass is high in fiber, which can help regulate the digestive system.
• Grass might have a soothing effect: If a dog’s stomach is feeling upset or inflamed, eating grass might provide some relief.

Reason 9: Just Because They Like It

While it might seem puzzling to us humans, some dogs simply enjoy the taste and texture of grass. Similar to how some people enjoy the crunch of celery or the taste of a crisp apple, our furry friends might find a certain satisfaction in the act of munching on grass.

“Remember, dogs experience the world through their senses, and one of those is taste. They might find a certain appeal in the unique grass flavor that we humans just can’t understand.”

• Taste: Just like humans, dogs have taste preferences. Some dogs might find the flavor of grass appealing.
• Texture: The crunchy texture of grass can be a fun change from their regular kibble or canned food.
• Novelty: Dogs are naturally curious creatures and might enjoy the novelty of eating something different from their usual diet.

So, if your dog is eating grass occasionally and not showing any signs of discomfort or illness, it might be that they are simply doing it because they like it. Always make sure that the grass they are eating is not treated with any harmful chemicals or pesticides.

Is Eating Grass Safe for Dogs?

Have you ever wondered if your pup’s endeavor of munching on grass is safe or not? You’re not alone in this bewilderment. Let’s delve into some details and resolve this mystery.

Generally, eating grass is safe for dogs, but it does come with a few exceptions. Like everything else, it’s all about moderation and the specifics of the situation.

• If the grass is treated with pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals, it could be harmful to your dog. So always be aware of the environment your pet is in. Please never fertilize or treat your lawn with any chemicals if you have a dog that spends any time on your lawn; I would never even if I did not have any animals.  Many of the chemicals are known to cause cancer, so better stay away from them.
• Grass may also host parasites like ticks or fleas that can be harmful to your dog’s health.
• Ingesting grass in excess might lead to gastric upset or obstruction, particularly if your dog tends to swallow the grass without chewing.

As a responsible pet parent, you should always keep an eye on what your pup is consuming. If your dog is eating grass frantically or excessively, it might signal a deeper issue that warrants a vet’s attention.

Remember, when in doubt, always consult with a animal professional.

While we have generally answered the question of safety, it’s important to note that the reasons why dogs eat grass can be diverse. A dog’s grass-eating habit can be due to anything from nutritional deficiencies to boredom. So, understanding why your dog is eating grass is as important as knowing whether it’s safe or not.

How to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Grass

Ever caught your canine companion munching on the greenery in your backyard and wondered how you might curb this peculiar pet practice? Well, fret not! There are several ways to prevent your dog from eating grass and we’re here to share them with you. But, having said that in most cases I would not prevent my pets from eating grass.

Offer a Balanced Diet

Grass consumption could be a sign that your dog is trying to supplement its diet. Ensuring your dog receives a balanced, nutritious diet can help deter them from seeking additional nutrients in the grass. Switching to raw food will in almost every case reduce grass eating.  I have had many clients report this. The main reason is that raw food works with a carnivore’s digestive system. I know many do not agree that dogs are carnivores. If you have one I encourage you to read this article: https://theanimalnaturopath.com/dogs-cats-are-carnivores-they-are-not-omnivores-like-human-beings/

Provide Adequate Mental Stimulation

Believe it or not, grass-eating can also stem from boredom. By providing plenty of mental stimulation through toys, puzzles and interaction, you may be able to keep your dog’s attention off the lawn.

Use Safe, Dog-Friendly Deterrents

Another approach is to make the grass less appealing to your dog. You can use dog-friendly deterrents, such as bitter apple spray, on your lawn to discourage them from eating grass. But again if they insist on eating grass please try some of the

Regular Vet Check-ups

Last but not least, regular vet check-ups can help you rule out any nutritional deficiencies or health concerns that may be causing your dog’s grass eating behavior. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

In conclusion, while grass-eating is generally not harmful for dogs, it’s always a good idea to understand the underlying reasons and address them appropriately. After all, our furry friends rely on us for their well-being!

When to Consult an Animal Health Care Professional.

As a pet parent, you might often find yourself pondering, ‘Should I be worried about my dog nibbling on that lush green grass?’ Well, the answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. While grass-eating doesn’t necessarily indicate a health problem, there are certain situations when you might want to consult your animal health care professional..

• Excessive grass eating: If your dog is gobbling up grass like there’s no tomorrow, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Gastrointestinal problems or nutritional deficiencies could be potential culprits.
• Vomiting after grass eating: It’s quite common for dogs to vomit after eating grass. However, if this becomes a regular affair, it’s time to visit the vet. Frequent vomiting could signal gastritis or other serious digestive issues.
• Change in behavior: Along with grass eating, if you observe other behavioral changes like lethargy, loss of appetite or aggressive behavior, it’s wise to seek professional help. These could be symptoms of a more serious health condition.

Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, if you’re in doubt about your dog’s grass eating habit, it’s best to consult your vet.

“It’s not about overreacting, but being a responsible pet parent. Sometimes, what seems like a harmless habit could be a telltale sign of something more serious.”

 

Signs	What it could mean
Excessive grass eating	Underlying health problem such as gastrointestinal issues or nutritional deficiencies
Vomiting after grass eating	Gastritis or other serious digestive issues
Change in behavior	Symptoms of a serious health condition

So, stay vigilant and keep an eye on your furry friend’s grass-eating habits. After all, they can’t tell us what’s wrong – it’s up to us to figure it out.

Final words

As an animal naturopath, I see things differently than conventional vets. I work with vets, and I often ask pet owners to see one for diagnosis. Most vets are really good at that. We differed on the treatment, and while some agreed with me, many do not.

My first step in any healing approach is addressing the food. I firmly believe and based on hundreds of cases I have been involved with. Raw food is better for dogs because it is more natural and closely mimics the diet of their wild ancestors. Dogs are carnivores and their digestive systems are designed to process raw meat, bones, and organs. Raw food also contains more nutrients and enzymes that are beneficial for dogs, as cooking can destroy some of these essential components.

Need help with your pet?

Do you have health issues that you cannot resolve with conventional therapies? Are you looking for a natural approach to help your pet live a long healthy life?

This is possible, and what I do. My approach is to restore the immune system in dogs and cats so they can achieve homeostasis. That is the best protection against pathogens that can lead to diseases.