Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

The debate as to why dogs eat grass has been going on for quite some time. Veterinarians and dog owners seem to be divided on the issue, and no one can come up with a complete answer. The truth is that dogs eat grass for a variety of reasons. Some dogs eat grass almost constantly while others rarely do and some not at all. Most experts agree that a dog that eats grass only on certain occasions is exhibiting normal canine behavior. However, a dog that constantly eats grass on a daily basis may have gastrointestinal problems and should be seen by a vet.

Studies suggest that dogs eat grass for a variety of reasons that are quite different from one another. Some experts suggest that some dogs eat grass because they enjoy it, and that eating grass fulfills a dietary need such as eating vegetables for humans. Others suggest that grass-eating dogs are experiencing a dietary imbalance, and missing certain vitamins and minerals, which they seek to regain by eating grass. Many others find that dogs will rush to eat grass when they have an upset stomach. The grass induces vomiting, which eases the pain in the dog's stomach.

Eating grass is not necessarily a sign of illness, however, if excessive vomiting, vomiting not associated with grass eating, loss of appetite, diarrhea, weight loss, lack of energy, or other symptoms are exhibited by your dog, call your veterinarian. If your dog eats grass often and you want to discourage this behavior, mow your lawn frequently, and keep the edges of your lawn well-trimmed. Most dogs are draw to tall clumps of grass, so shorter lawns may keep them from eating grass.