5 Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass + 3 Tips To Stop It

Seeing your dog eat grass for the first time may seem cute and picture-worthy. But the more they do it, the more you start to worry.

So is eating grass just a normal dog quirk? Or are there serious underlying causes behind it?

Why does my dog eat grass?

Your dog eats grass because of a lack of fiber in their diet. It might also be a sign that they’re anxious, bored, or they simply like its taste. Lastly, it can also be a symptom of an underlying stomach issue.

Is eating grass bad for my dog?

When you’re out for a walk with your dog, do they have a habit of nibbling on your neighbor’s lawn?

Well, most veterinarians see dogs eating grass as normal behavior. Since grass is generally considered safe to eat, as long as it’s chemical-free.

So make sure to avoid perfectly manicured grass on your walks since they can be sprayed with chemical pesticides to maintain them.

Another thing to look out for is animal droppings and stools. If your dog accidentally eats them with grass, they might pick up intestinal parasites like roundworms or hookworms.

Fleas and ticks can also be hiding within the grass, so make sure to check your dog whenever they frolic in lawns.

5 reasons why dogs eat grass

#1: They lack fiber

Sure, it’s a bit baffling when you find your dog eating grass when you feed them the best dog food you can find.

But maybe it’s a sign that they’re looking for more fiber in their diet.

In a study, a miniature poodle that has been eating grass and vomiting it for 7 years suddenly stopped once they were fed with a high-fiber diet.

So what is fiber and what does it do for your dog?

Well, fiber is a carbohydrate that helps keep their digestive tract healthy. Since dogs are omnivores, they need a healthy amount of leafy greens in their diets to digest their food properly. As well as to pass their stools regularly.

#2: They’re bored

If you leave your dog outside for a long time with nothing to do, they might start chewing on random things to pass the time. Including things like slippers, toys, or even grass.

Most dogs have no problem occupying time on their own. But if you have an energetic dog, they’ll constantly need to do something or else they’ll get bored.

Dogs that don’t get enough exercise can also start chewing on random things since they have too much pent-up energy.

So if you have to leave your dog at home alone for a few hours, make sure to walk them beforehand so they can release that energy.

But if you don’t have the time, make sure to leave them with plenty of things to do. You can leave them their favorite toys or a few healthy snacks so they’ll have something to chew on.

#3: They’re anxious

Younger dogs or puppies can experience separation anxiety. Especially when they’re not used to being home alone yet. So they can have a tendency to eat grass to soothe themself, the same way anxious people bite their nails.

Yes, it’s hard to leave your new dog alone at home, but sometimes you have to.

To help manage their anxiety, you can leave your dog with a blanket with your scent on it to help comfort them. 

Along with plenty of toys and snacks so they’ll have something to occupy the time besides eating grass.

#4: They have stomach issues

Although there is no evidence that dogs eat grass to vomit when they have stomach issues, vets can agree that most dogs eat grass to soothe an upset stomach.

As grass can act as a ‘natural antacid’ in your dog’s stomach to help stop acids from building up. The same way antacid medication works on humans.

But if your dog is vomiting excessively, bring them to the vet immediately. As they might be having a serious stomach issue.

#5: They like the taste and texture

If your dog is still eating grass even after a balanced meal and proper exercise, they might just like the taste of grass.

Some pet owners say that they find their dog eats grass more during spring as the grass is sweeter. 

Some even say their dog only eats grass in certain places.

It might be silly to hear, but maybe your dog’s grass-eating behavior may just be a dog being a dog.

How can you stop dogs from eating grass? - 3 tips

#1: Distraction

Giving your dog plenty of toys and activities throughout the day can help curb their appetite for grass.

As well as walking or allowing them to play can help them release their energy. Since a tired dog will not be interested in doing anything but sleeping.

#2: Training

If your dog has a habit of munching on the grass during your walks, training them can help avoid this behavior.

Teaching them commands like ‘stop’ or ‘drop it’ can help them obey you to stop eating grass.

According to Kayla Fratt, a certified dog behavior consultant, when your dog starts eating a patch of grass start counting from 3. Once you reach 1, gently tug your dog’s leash and they’ll usually go.

Once your dog gets the hang of your commands, they’ll be easier to manage.

#3: Adding more fiber into their diet

If you suspect your dog’s eating grass because they need more fiber, talk to your dog’s vet about how to switch them to a high-fiber diet.

There are various high-fiber dog foods available on the market. But the best source comes from fruits and vegetables.

Food that contains high levels of fiber include:

• Pumpkin
• Kale
• Ground flaxseed
• Lettuce
• Apples
• Carrots
• Green Beans
• Strawberries
• Blueberries

Fiber supplements are also available to help boost your dog’s fiber intake.

But remember, your dog’s fiber consumption should not exceed more than 10% of their daily meals to avoid a nutritional imbalance.

Final takeaway

So there you have it. 5 possible explanations as to why your dog keeps eating grass. We hope any of the tips above help you stop your dog’s habits.

But if you have any concerns, you can always contact your dog’s veterinarian. As your dog’s health and safety are always the top priority.