Why is my dog eating gras

Seeing your dog eating grass can be a concerning sight and is one of the more perplexing behaviours dogs display. Many pet parents worry that their dog eating grass is a sign that they are ill or trying to make themselves sick as they have eaten something that they shouldn’t have. Some dogs do vomit after ingesting grass, but this is not the case for all.


If your dog vomits after eating grass, it does not necessarily mean they were feeling ill before they ate the grass; they may have been feeling fine before deciding to start eating the lawn. But, while you may wonder why dogs eat grass, it is not usually too much of a concern. Eating grass occasionally is viewed by many as normal dog behaviour and something that lots of dogs do.

Here, we will explore why dogs choose to eat grass, whether it is harmful to dogs to eat grass, and how to prevent your dog from eating grass.

Why is my dog eating grass?

If you have caught your pet biting your lawn at home or munching on grass at the park, you may be wondering why they are displaying this strange-looking behaviour. There are many reasons that your dog could be choosing to feast on grass. Here are some of the possible explanations:

  • Sometimes dogs eat grass for the simple reason they like the taste and texture, and they enjoy eating it. Eating grass can especially appeal to dogs during the spring and summer months when the grass is particularly fresh and lush.
  • Boredom can sometimes cause dogs to eat grass. If your pet is not getting enough stimulation when outside in the garden and is eating grass instead of playing and burning off energy, it could be because they are bored. Finding ways to keep your pet entertained and enriched can help to alleviate their boredom and distract them from eating grass.
  • Some people believe that dogs may eat grass due to a nutritional deficiency or possibly because they lack fibre in their daily diet. However, a digestive issue or dietary problem is not necessarily the cause, and one of the above reasons could be the explanation for their tendency to eat grass.

Is it harmful if my dog eats grass?

Every pet parent wants what’s best for their dog, so eating grass may be a great cause of concern for you, and you may be worried the grass will harm your dog and make them unwell. In most cases, eating grass occasionally is viewed as typical dog behaviour, but it is essential to be aware of some potential problems that eating grass can cause.

It is vital to prevent your dog from eating grass if you suspect that it may be sprayed with pesticides or other chemicals that could be harmful to your pet.

Does your dog spend lots of time around long grass? If so, it is essential to be aware of the dangers of grass seeds becoming stuck in their ears, paws, or eyes.

If your dog is eating grass excessively, it is important to get them checked by a vet to rule out any underlying causes, such as a nutrition deficiency. Getting your dog checked is crucial if they are eating grass but not their regular food.

If your dog is repeatedly eating grass and then vomiting or seems in any way unwell, it is essential to seek advice from your vet.

How do i stop my dog from eating grass?

Finding the perfect solution to deter your dog from eating grass will depend on the underlying reason they are doing it. So, if you are keen to stop your dog from eating grass, there are a few methods that you can try.

If you suspect boredom is causing your dog to eat grass, finding ways to distract them from their grass-eating habits could stop the behaviour. Throwing a ball for your pet to chase can help to burn off some excess energy and keep them occupied. Playing games with your dog is an excellent way to keep them entertained, and you could try buying them some new chew toys so they can focus their attention on those instead.

You may also want to change your dog’s food to see if this makes a difference. If you think eating grass could result from something lacking in their diet, speaking to your vet, and getting their professional opinion is advisable.

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