Why does my dog eat grass? Top 5 reasons

Have you ever noticed your dog eating grass and wondered why they do it? While it may seem strange, eating grass is a common behavior among dogs. There are several reasons why dogs eat grass, and understanding these reasons can help pet owners better understand their pet's behavior.

1. To satisfy a nutritional deficiency: If your dog is lacking certain vitamins or minerals in their diet, they may eat grass as a way to supplement their nutrition. iIf a dog is deficient in fiber, they may eat grass to try and increase their fiber intake.  Grasses are a pretty good source of digestive enzymes. Grass also contains phytonutrients and is high in potassium and chlorophyll.
2. To treat an upset stomach: Dogs may eat grass to help alleviate nausea and other digestive issues. Grass contains fibers that can help move food through the digestive system, which can provide relief for dogs with upset stomachs.
3. For entertainment: Some dogs simply enjoy chewing on grass, and may do so as a form of play or entertainment. This behavior can also be a way for dogs to relieve boredom and anxiety.
4. As a natural instinct: Eating grass may be a natural instinct for dogs, as wild canines are known to eat grass to help with digestion and to induce vomiting when they have consumed something harmful.
5. To clean their teeth: Dogs may eat grass as a way to clean their teeth and freshen their breath. The fibrous texture of grass can help remove plaque and tartar from their teeth, keeping their oral health in good condition.

It's important to note that while eating grass is a common behavior among dogs, it's not always safe. Certain types of grasses and plants can be toxic to dogs. Some grass may have fertilizer with harmful chemicals. Some grasses and plants are poisonous. So it's important to monitor your dog's grass-eating behavior and ensure they are not consuming any harmful grassy plants. If your dog is eating an excessive amount of grass or if their grass-eating behavior is accompanied by discomfort such as vomiting or diarrhea, it's important to consult with a veterinarian.

So, if you want to prevent your dog from eating grass, what can you do?  One way is to provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep your dog entertained and satisfied. Offer toys, puzzles, and games to help relieve boredom and anxiety, and make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise each day. You can also add high-fiber foods to your dog's diet, such as pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and green beans, to help alleviate any nutritional deficiencies that may be causing them to eat grass.

Alternatives to Grass

Some dogs enjoy lettuce, celery, and carrots. You can experiment to see which ones your dog will like. Try freezing carrots for a nice crunchy treat. These are healthy alternatives to commercial treats.

Now that you know that grass eating is a normal dog activity, if you're still worried about your dog eating grass, it would be best to discuss options with your family veterinarian.