When you think of all the great grazing creatures of the land, a dog is probably not the first critter champing at the bit to begin munching on the grass. If your dog is out of the closet about its love for grass, we’re here to clear the lawn and uncover why your munchkin is munching the green.
Should I stop my dog from eating grass?
It is a common belief that dogs gravitate towards grazing when they don’t feel well as a way to make themselves vomit and then feel better. Others say that belief barks up the wrong tree, because dogs are not proven to be smart enough to decide to treat an upset stomach by eating grass. Either way, the good news is that grass eating by dogs (and cats) is considered normal by veterinarians (just a reflection of their ancestry and predatory nature).
Before you judge your fur baby too much, look in the mirror first. We’ve all had a mild (or severe) case of Pica at some point in our lives. Pica is an eating disorder in which a person eats things not usually considered food (like soil, linen, fingernails, or others). Pica could indicate a nutritional deficiency, although it’s often simply a sign of boredom, especially in younger dogs.
Three scrunchy reasons why your dog is eating grass.
Dogs like the taste of grass.
They may have learned that the grass is always greener on the other side (inside their bellies, that is). They may also enjoy the texture (which might be a slight upgrade from the dry kibble or canned food they usually find in their bowls).
The grass fulfils your dog’s nutritional needs.
Veterinarians and doctors will quickly render a diagnosis with the word ‘pica’ (written in big, bold letters) for anyone caught in the act of eating odd, non-food items. Experts (such as the vets at VCA Hospitals) support the theory that because grass is a good source of fibre, eating it helps a dog's bodily functions run smoothly. But there's no concrete evidence to confirm or dispel this theory (as reported by Psychology Today).
Eating grass is a coping mechanism.
Our dogs go through a lot (the world is big and scary)! Much like nervous Nellies who chew on their fingernails, dogs eat grass as a comfort mechanism when feeling anxious or neglected.
How to cut down your dog’s grass-eating habit.
- For a dog that loves the taste: Plant edible, organic grass for them (this may keep him satisfied and away from the pesticides).
- If you’re concerned about your dog’s diet: Consult your vet about the most nutritious dog food to feed your little scavenger.
- For an anxious dog: A new toy or an old t-shirt with a familiar scent may do the trick.
