DOG CARE – Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

There are various reasons why dogs eat grass (see part 1 below).

 And there are several methods dog owners can use to modify this           behavior (see part 2 below).

Part 1: Reasons Dogs Eat Grass

1. Ancestral Behavior

Many dogs eat grass as a result of behaviors passed down from wild ancestors in their genes who grazed on various plants during their lifetime, including grass.

2. Dog Diet lacks Certain Nutrients

Dogs who eat grass may be looking for certain nutrients missing from their current diet, especially if their diet does not provide them with enough fiber.

3. Nausea Relief

Some dogs eat grass to induce vomiting while trying to overcome an illness. The grass eating may help dogs clear their stomachs of discomfort.

4. Boredom or Anxiety

Dogs may chew on grass out of boredom or as a way to cope with stress. Grass chewing can also be entertaining to some dogs.

5. Taste and Texture

Some dogs simply enjoy chewing grass because they find the taste and texture appealing to them.

6. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Dogs might eat grass to get attention from the people around them. This behavior could get worse if the dog owner shows a negative reaction when catching their dog eating grass.

Part 2: Best Methods to Resolve Dogs Eating Grass

1. Take a Look at Your Dog’s Diet

Is your dog’s diet balanced with all the nutrients required for good health? Always research your dog food to ensure that it provides your dog with all essential nutrients. Consider adding fiber supplements to your dog’s diet (with your veterinarian’s approval).

When introducing high-fiber foods or other dog food, follow these steps:

-Introduce the new food gradually (in small amounts) to avoid indigestion.

-Evaluate how your dog responds to their new diet. Make adjustments, if needed.

2. Monitor your Dog’s Health

If your dog persists in chewing grass despite all your efforts, talk with your veterinarian to rule out any disease that your dog may be carrying without your knowledge. It is also important to protect your dog against parasites that they could pick up from eating grass. (Your veterinarian can test your dog for parasites and provide the best treatments).

3. Increase Dog Exercise and Stimulation

Provide your dog with various physical and mental activities to prevent boredom.

When planning your dog’s daily schedule, make sure that you include plenty of playtime, dog walks, and access to toys that are entertaining to your dog.

4. Always use Positive Reinforcement

Avoid scolding your dog for eating grass, as this can increase their anxiety. Instead, refocus your dog’s attention in a positive way. Always reward your dog with treats or affection when they stay off the grass.

5. Train your Dog to follow the “Leave it” Command

Train your dog to obey the “Leave it” command (see video posted on this blog). Reward your dog with their preferred treats or gestures of affection when they stay off the grass.

6. Create a Calm Environment at Home

Create a calm and safe home surrounded with objects loved by your dog.

7. Grow your Own Safe Grass at Home

If your dog insists on eating grass (even after ruling out health problems and training your dog to follow the “Leave it” command), then you can limit access to grass areas, especially public places that are often treated with harsh chemicals.

You can also grow your own dog-friendly grass inside your home to ensure that your dog only eats unpolluted and safe grass at all times.

As well, you can offer your dog safe plants to chew on or safe chew toys to satisfy their need to chew.

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