Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? Get the Answers

Many people ask the question, why do dogs eat grass? Most dog owners assume their dog is sick when they see them eating grass. Others worry that eating grass will make their dog sick. While it’s a good idea to not let your dog eat chemically treated grasses, this practice is otherwise healthy for dogs.

A dog will often eat more grass while experiencing stomach-aches or other intestinal disturbances. The roughage helps their digestive system.

The grasses also add needed vitamins and nutrients to your dog’s diet, which she may not otherwise be getting from her regular food. Even the soil itself contains micro-nutrients, which will boost a dog’s health.

Tall grasses are especially beneficial, along with certain weeds, such as dandelions, which help cleanse a dog’s liver.

When you do notice your dog starting to eat grass, make sure to keep a close eye on her. She might start wandering toward other foliage, some of which if eaten could lead to serious illness or death. To learn more about plants which are known to be poisonous to dogs, visit the Harmful Plants section of this site.

You should also stop a dog from excessive grass eating, or if they begin to vomit. These are rare occurrences, but just like when it comes to dinner time some animals know their limits better than others.

When you notice your dog taking in huge mouthfuls of dirt and grass without chewing, they are likely about to get sick and starting vomiting. When this happens, take your dog inside and feed her some fresh vegetables.

Make sure they’re fresh before feeding them to your dog and introduce vegetables slowly by first feeding them in small portions. They should always first be chopped into bite-sized pieces for easier chewing and quicker digestion.

String beans, broccoli, asparagus, green peppers, kale and romaine are all suitable to feed your dog, though some will likely prefer some veggies over others. Never feed your dog onions or garlic, as they cause anemia in dogs. You should also avoid tomatoes.

Just like with other food items, introduce various items until you find your pet’s personal favorites. But remember to keep some variety in order to improve your dog’s health. Lightly steaming the vegetables, especially in ginger root, will not only improve taste but also helps release vitamins.

Your dog’s overall health will improve if you began preparing more of their food yourself at home. If you're interested in learning more about homemade food and how best to feed your dog, you may be interested in reading Pet Food Nation.

If you don’t have the time or inclination to make your dog’s food, supplementing a diet of good commercially available dog food with the occasional fresh, lightly cooked vegetables and meats. Just make sure not to serve cooked bones, which can splinter, and to limit chicken skins. Raw bones are fine.