As a pet owner, there’s a lot on your plate – from bathing and walking to feeding and showering them with love.

While providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential, dogs sometimes opt for unconventional snacks. They might pass on their kibble for fallen food, their own feces, or even grass. It’s crucial to monitor what they choose to munch on, as not all human foods or outdoor plants are safe for canine consumption.

Should you worry if your dog is eating grass?

Why do dogs consume grass?

Although it may appear odd, it’s rather typical for dogs to eat grass. Research from the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine indicates that 68% of dogs ingest grass or plants weekly to daily.

Here are some reasons your dog might develop this habit:

Learned behavior

Your dog might mimic this behavior by watching other dogs or their mother. Dr. Katherine Houpt, a professor emeritus at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, notes that puppies whose mothers consumed grass are more likely to do the same.

Soothing

Just like humans, dogs can experience acid reflux and might eat grass to ease their discomfort, as veterinarian Diana Watkins has shared with YSL News. This explains why you might find grass or sticks in their vomit.

Pica

Dogs might also have a disorder known as pica, which compels them to eat non-food items, including grass or rocks, as stated by Great Pet Care.

Instinctual behavior

Another reason could be their wild instincts. Wild canines often consume fiber from grass or sticks found in the stomachs of their prey.

“Domestic diets may not provide enough fiber, creating a natural inclination to eat grass,” explains Houpt.

Curiosity

Additionally, dogs might chew on grass simply to explore intriguing scents. They possess a unique sensory organ between their nose and mouth called the vomeronasal organ, often regarded as their “sixth sense,” according to Houpt.

“If they want to determine who has been there or who has left their scent, chewing the grass helps them perceive those smells more effectively,” she adds.

Is it okay for my dog to eat grass?

Occasional grass munching does not pose a problem, but it’s essential to be aware of any herbicides or pesticides used on the grass that could be harmful to dogs. Furthermore, there’s the risk of parasites, such as hookworms or roundworms, which may come from feces of other dogs and are dangerous if ingested by your dog.

If your dog is frequently eating grass and then vomiting, they may have gastrointestinal issues, and it’s time to consult a veterinarian, notes Houpt.

You can train your dog to refrain from eating grass by bringing treats during walks and supervising them while they go outside. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, gently distracting them or giving a verbal cue as they attempt to nibble can be effective.