One of the most frequently asked questions among dog owners is why is my dog eating grass all of a sudden? Also, they might appear to do it excessively and be sick.
It’s worrying for them because there appears to be no valid reason in their eyes. It’s true that dogs will vomit the grass which they have swallowed, then return to eating more of it. At other times the grass can even appear on their stools.
Make sure to check out today’s deals to SAVE money on dog products by clicking on the graphic below. Don’t miss out.
This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.
——————-
Table Of Contents
Why Do Dogs Like To Eat Grass:
Dogs may eat grass because they are looking for an easy way to get hydration, they want to eat something that tastes good (like their own vomit), or they may be feeling nauseous.
One theory is that dogs eat grass in order to get moisture into their system. Dogs can’t synthesize enough fluids on their own, so if they’re thirsty, eating grass is an easy way for them to get fluids without drinking water (which would likely lead to vomiting).
Some dogs might taste the grass in order to determine whether it’s safe or not. They may also do so in order to determine if the plant is edible. For example, some types of plants are toxic when eaten by humans but not by canines. See below.
Questions To Ask:
a) Are they trying to clear their internal tract of some parasite or foreign object?
Dogs will eat grass when they have a stomach ache, but in some cases, this is a sign of something more serious. In order to determine if their dog is eating grass because they are sick, it’s important to take your dog to the vet.
b) Are they trying to make themselves pass something?
Dogs will eat grass when they have a stomach ache, but in some cases, this is a sign of something more serious. In order to determine if their dog is eating grass because they are sick, it’s important to take your dog to the vet
The diet that your dog is currently on, maybe missing a key nutrient. As always please check with your vet if your pet is doing this excessively and it is now worrying you.
He might be able to tell you if he is missing some nutrients and it could then be supplemented with the approved vitamins required.
Another reason is that your dog could be bored and requires something to stimulate him. You could try some chew toys like a Konga dog toy or smart dog devices. Also, you can try another smart dog product such as the FitBark to monitor his health and fitness
Does Eating Grass Hurt Dogs:
Actually, dogs are termed omnivores, which means they eat both plants and meat and this applies to both feral and wild dogs when hunting.It’s well worth noting that grass can and could become lodged in the back of your dog’s throat.
If you notice him pawing around his mouth or wrenching, after eating grass, it’s advisable to check to see if this is the potential cause. As always, please check with your vet.
Don’t Ignore This Warning:
As part of a dog’s diet, grass can be seen as a normal component. However, some grass seeds or plants will have been treated with certain chemicals and therefore should be avoided. Yard sprays or fertilizers can actually turn plants or grass toxic.
If you are not sure that the area is free of chemicals, the best advice is not to let them wander or graze in that area. In addition, some weeds are also toxic to dogs.
It’s better to know which plants are toxic to dogs. This can help avoid you from planting them in your garden or bringing them into your home. Please sees below.
—————————-
Top 5 Common Poisonous Plants for Dogs:
1). Irises:
If your pet eats this plant, it can vomit, lose energy, and have diarrhea. They may also develop irritation of the skin. The iris, unfortunately, contains various compounds that are toxic to dogs.
2). Daffodils:
I have always loved this plant but was actually unaware that all parts of the plant, especially the bulb are poisonous to dogs. This can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and even a serious drop in blood pressure.
3). Azaleas:
A small amount of the leaves from this plant can cause diarrhea and vomiting, plus irritate the mouth of your dog.
In more severe cases, it can result in a coma or death in dogs who have ingested the plant.
4). Foxglove:
These are really beautiful tall flowers, but unfortunately, every part of the plant, from the seeds to the flowers, is dangerous for your pets.
Eating them can result in death from cardiac failure.
5). Tulip:
The bulb is the most dangerous part for dogs. It can cause nausea and drooling and can cause oral irritation which can be unpleasant.
——————————–
Can I Substitute for Grass In My Dogs Diet:
I always assumed that dogs liked grass and I found from research that one can substitute the texture and taste with food such as peeled celery or carrots (Their favorite). You just find out what they like. For their health and safety, it’s definitely worth a go.
Eating grass appears to be in most cases a behavioral concern, but because of the potential ramifications to their health, it’s worth discouraging it or at least monitoring it when it becomes excessive.
We hope that any questions you might have had about why is my dog eating grass all of a sudden, have been clarified.
———————————————–
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Disclaimer: All material on this website is provided for your information only and may not be construed as medical advice. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals or veterinarians on any matter relating to their dogs’ health and well-being. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.
I have seen dogs eating grass before but could never work out why they did it, in fact, I have been wondering for years now what the reason for this could be, I’m so pleased that I came to your website, I’ve learned some very interesting facts about dogs, i have bookmarked your site for future reference, thank you for sharing, take care.
Russ
Russ
Glad that you found the information of use. In doing the research I clarified a lot of questions myself about why dogs do the things they do including why they eat grass.
Thank you for taking the time to post.
Dave
Some vets would say that it is not really a problem because it’s a normal dog behavior. Pica is the term used for a disorder characterized by eating things that are not food. It could really be boredom that causes dogs to eat grass. As dog owners, it’s a responsibility to be watchful on this situation.
It’s great that you made a list of plants that can be dangerous for dogs. In our country, swamp and marsh plants such as pong pong is really dangerous. Some poisonous plants and vines for them are rosary pea, castor bean and belladonna.
I agree that they should be given pet toys such as what you mentioned to kill their boredom. There are even interactive toys made for furry friends and Pup pod is one of the most popular. Thanks for this valuable information. A lot of dog owners might be nervous or clueless with this dog behavior but rest assured your article has given enough guidance on how to deal with it.
MissusB
Thank you for the information regarding Pica. Always love people posting, because I learnt additional things and I sincerely appreciate this.
I am glad that you found the list of plants of use, as initially I wasn’t sure whether to include the information.
The interactive dog products coming into the pet market is really exciting and I am always on the lookout for new products to include in our smart dog products reviews section.
Thank you also for taking the time to post.
Dave