What does it mean when a dog eats grass? There are a variety of reasons why your canine pal may chow down on grass — and some of them may surprise you. Learn more about why dogs eat grass in this article.
Is it True That Dogs Eat Grass to Throw Up?
While limited studies have been done on why dogs eat grass, there is evidence that most dogs do not eat grass to vomit.
In one study, two different populations of people were asked about their dogs' grass eating habits — a group of students studying to be vets, and a group of pet parents. Almost all of them reported that their dogs ate grass, but almost none of them reported that their dogs regularly vomited after doing so. Most of the dogs studied didn't have any signs of illness before eating grass or after. Based on these results, it’s safe to conclude that dogs likely eat grass for reasons other than making themselves vomit.
So, Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
There are many theories about why dogs eat grass, but limited research to back them up. The truth is, no one knows for sure why pups have adopted this peculiar habit. However, scientists do have a few theories — and have disproved some myths based on the research they do have.
Keep reading to learn the different theories about why dogs eat grass, and learn which ones have been debunked.
Instinctive Behavior
Some scientists believe that eating grass is an instinctive behavior for dogs, and that it evolved from their wolf ancestors.
Wild canids (from the Canidae family — which includes wolves, jackals, foxes, and coyotes) have been observed to eat grass. And based on research about wolves, scientists know that 2-10% of their stomach contents may contain plant material.
Knowing this, it makes sense that dogs may simply eat grass instinctually, and not have any real “reason” behind this behavior.
Nutrient Deficiency
In one particular report, an 11-year-old Miniature Poodle had a seven-year history of eating plants and grass, then vomiting afterward.
This behavior stopped after the pup was placed on a high-fiber diet. This may serve as evidence that the poodle was self-treating the lack of fiber in their diet by eating grass and plants. Once provided with adequate fiber, the grass-eating stopped.
Feeding your pup a complete and balanced dog food that’s high in fiber, like Jinx, can help ensure that they’re getting all of the essential nutrients they need to thrive, and prevent any dietary deficiencies.
Hunger
In another study from 2007, researchers found that grass-eating behavior was influenced by how hungry your dog is, and the time of day. They found that there was less grass-eating after the dog had eaten a meal, and increased grass-eating beforehand. Grass-eating also occurred less frequently later in the day.
Upset Stomach
One study fed one group of dogs a diet containing fructooligosaccharide (FOS). The other group of pups were fed a standard diet.
FOS is extracted from beets, and passes undigested through the small intestine and into the large intestine, where it ferments. Large quantities of FOS can cause watery, loose stool.
The results: dogs fed the standard diet ate grass more often than the FOS dogs, who had diarrhea. Why is this important? Because it may show that dogs with gastrointestinal issues are less likely to eat grass.
One thing to note: in this study, the diarrhea originated in the large intestine — so it doesn’t give us insight into grass-eating behavior in dogs that have GI issues in their stomach or small intestine.
Curiosity
Dogs, especially younger ones, often explore with their mouths — chewing, biting, and tasting their way through the world around them. Eating grass may simply be something that they try out of curiosity — kinda like how some small children eat dirt.
Taste
Believe it or not, there are dogs who simply enjoy the taste and/or texture of fresh grass, and consider it a tasty snack. This might happen more often at specific times of the year — like in the springtime, when grass is fresh and new. Your pup may also enjoy the moisture from grass that’s coated in dew.
Attention-Seeking Behavior
Some dogs may have learned that when they eat grass, their pet parents pay more attention to them.
For example, when you see your pup eating grass, you might offer them treats to get them to stop munching on the green stuff. This teaches your dog that whenever they want extra treats, all they have to do is eat grass to get your attention.
Or, you may pull your dog away from grass whenever you see them eating it. This restriction may increase your pup’s interest in it — because grass is “forbidden.”
Some dogs also eat grass out of boredom or loneliness. Dogs are social, curious creatures who need lots of mental stimulation. When they don’t get this, they may turn to destructive behaviors like excessive barking, or chewing or eating things that they shouldn’t. It’s important to always give your dog lots of attention, make sure that they get daily exercise, and keep their mind engaged with enrichment toys and puzzles.
Can Dogs Digest Grass?
Dogs are omnivores, which means their diet should include meat, fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates. This balanced approach aligns with how dogs have evolved alongside humans, developing the ability to digest and benefit from more than just meat.
However, not all plants are equal when it comes to digestibility. While dogs can properly digest many fruits and vegetables, grass is an exception. It generally passes through their system undigested.
That said, eating grass is generally considered safe for dogs in small amounts. However, if your pup eats a large amount of grass at one time, it can cause an intestinal blockage — call your vet immediately.
Should I Stop My Dog from Eating Grass?
Although most experts agree that grass-grazing isn't harmful to dogs, one thing to keep in mind is that certain herbicides and pesticides used on lawns can be quite toxic if ingested.
Additionally, a number of common house and garden plants are toxic to dogs, which could lead to serious health problems if your dog snacks on them along with the lawn.
To make sure that the plants in and around your yard or neighborhood aren’t dangerous for your pup, check the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center website, which maintains a list of toxic and non-toxic plants for dogs.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? FAQs
Is It Okay to Let Your Dog Eat Grass?
For the most part, it’s okay to let your dog eat grass from time-to-time. However, it’s best to only allow your dog to eat grass on your property. Why? Because you’ll know for sure that the grass doesn’t have any toxic pesticides and herbicides on it.
It’s also not a good idea to let your dog eat a large amount of grass at one time, as it may upset their stomach or cause an intestinal blockage.
Why Does My Dog Eat Grass, Then Throw Up?
Eating grass can sometimes (in less than 25% of cases) cause dogs to vomit, which can be concerning for pet parents.
When a dog eats grass, it can cause irritation to their stomach lining, which triggers the vomiting reflex. Vomiting helps to rid the dog's stomach of the grass, and any other substances that may be causing discomfort or irritation. Additionally, eating large amounts of grass can cause a blockage in the digestive system, which can also lead to vomiting.
If your dog vomits after eating grass, it's important to monitor them closely, and ensure that they’re drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. If the vomiting persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, like diarrhea or lethargy, it’s a good idea to contact your vet to rule out any underlying health issues. In some cases, vomiting can be a sign of a more serious condition, like gastroenteritis or pancreatitis, which might require medical treatment.
Should I Take My Dog to the Vet for Eating Grass?
Eating grass is a common behavior in dogs, and it’s generally considered safe if eaten in small amounts. However, it’s a good idea to call your vet if you notice any of the following with your grass-grazing pup:
- You suspect that they may have a dietary deficiency
- They’re vomiting or have diarrhea
- They’re showing any symptoms of an illness
- They’ve eaten a large amount of grass at one time
- You suspect that they have eaten grass with a toxic treatment on it (pesticides, herbicides, etc.)
Key Takeaways: Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Although there are many theories about why dogs eat grass, no one really knows for sure what causes pups to graze. What we do know: it’s likely not to make themselves vomit. That said, eating large amounts of grass may upset your dog’s stomach or cause an intestinal blockage — and eating grass that may be sprayed with pesticides or herbicides can be very dangerous. Always monitor your dog, only let them eat grass that you know for sure hasn’t been treated with chemicals, and don’t let them overdo it. Feeding your pup a fiber-rich diet may help deter your dog from grass-eating — all the more reason to stock up on Jinx.
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