You’re on a walk, your dog is enjoying the sights and smells of the great outdoors, and suddenly, they stop, lower their head, and start chewing on some grass. Sound familiar? If you've ever wondered, why your dog eats grass you’re definitely not alone! This is such a common question that lots of pet owners ask. Let’s dig into the reasons behind this…
- Instinctive cravings: Channelling their inner wolf
Dogs may be domesticated, but they still have a few wolf-like habits up their furry sleeves. Wild canines are known to munch on plants to aid digestion or supplement their diet, and your dog's occasional grazing might be a modern twist on this behaviour.
- The fiber factor
Grass can be a quick fix for an upset stomach. Some dogs turn to the leafy stuff to help with digestion, adding a bit of fibre to their diet. The fibre in grass might help things move along if your pup’s tummy feels a little off. Think of it as nature’s green remedy!
- Addressing supplement deficiencies
Sometimes, eating grass can be a sign that your dog is trying to make up for something missing in their diet. Dogs, like people, can be deficient in certain nutrients. If they feel a low on fibre or nutrients, they may instinctively snack on grass to fill that gap.
To help reduce this behaviour, make sure your dog's diet is well-balanced and includes all the necessary nutrients. There are vast amount of supplements out there that can boost your dog’s nutrition and fibre intake, be sure to look out for ingredients such as Apple Pectin, Pumpkin Seed & Psyllium Husk which are all rich in fibre – (read more here) just make sure to check in with your vet before adding anything new to their bowl!
- Boredom fix or tasty treat?
Sometimes, grass eating is simply a fun activity. Yep, dogs get bored too! If they’re hanging out in the yard with nothing to do, grass might just be the most entertaining (and tasty) thing around. If your pup is chowing down on grass during playtime, it might be a sign they need a bit more mental stimulation. Consider adding a puzzle toy, a game of fetch, or a new chew toy into the mix to keep them happily occupied.
- Is it bad for my dog to eat grass?
Generally speaking, grass eating is pretty harmless. Most dogs eat grass occasionally without any issues. However, it's a good idea to keep an eye on what they’re nibbling—grass treated with pesticides or chemicals can be dangerous, and certain types of plants can be toxic. So, keep your lawn dog-friendly, and when in doubt, give your vet a call.
- Just because they like it!
Lastly, let’s not forget the simplest reason—some dogs just like the taste of grass! It could be juicy, crunchy, or just interesting. If your dog is a fan of the greens and they’re otherwise healthy, it’s likely no cause for concern.
So, why does your dog eat grass? It could be to help with digestion, fill a nutritional gap, ease boredom, or just because they find it delicious. If your pup is grazing a bit too often or seems uncomfortable, a chat with your vet can help determine if there’s an underlying issue. Remember, a balanced diet, the right nutrients, plenty of playtime, and regular check-ups are the best ways to keep your dog happy and healthy!
