Dog Trainer Explains: Should You Allow Your Dog to Eat Grass
It's a sight many dog owners know well: your precious pooch darts outdoors and, instead of chasing after that tossed ball, begins chomping away at the nearest patch of grass.
You may have heard that dogs eat grass to induce vomiting, but recent studies offer a new explanation that might make you rethink this common canine behavior.
As a trusted dog trainer, I'm here to dive into this grassy mystery and unravel four health-related reasons why your dog might be feasting on your lawn.
The Story Behind "Dog Eating Grass" Phenomenon
Does the phrase "dog eating grass" ring a bell? If you're a dog owner, it definitely should.
Recent research, including studies conducted in 2007 and 2010, challenges the notion that dogs munch on grass primarily to relieve gastrointestinal upset.
Instead, they suggest that this behavior could be linked to simple hunger, enjoyment, or boredom.
But wait. I've provided my dog a balanced diet, made with love (or bought carefully), yet she still seems to find the neighborhood greenery an irresistible delicacy.
Well, you're not alone. Some surveys indicate up to 80% of dog owners have reported their four-legged friends regularly sampling grass.
Notably, this behavior isn't exclusive to our domesticated furry friends. Research on wolves in Yellowstone National Park revealed plant matter (mostly grass) in 74% of wolf poop.
This suggests that our dogs could have inherited this grass-eating habit from their wild ancestors.
Science Says: Hungry Dogs May Be More Prone to Eating Grass
Contrary to the common belief, a 2007 study involving 12 dewormed dogs with no reported digestive issues, who were observed eating grass daily, found minimal instances of vomiting.
In fact, out of 709 grass-eating events, there were only five instances of vomiting, all of which occurred after the dogs had eaten a meal.
The major discovery from this study? Dogs who hadn't eaten their daily meal were likelier to eat grass. So, hunger, not gastrointestinal discomfort, could significantly influence your dog's penchant for pastures.
Further adding to this argument, a 2010 study found that dogs experiencing mild gastrointestinal issues due to an unfamiliar diet were less likely to eat grass than when they were on their usual diet.
This challenges other widely held theories like "dogs eat grass as a laxative" or "dogs eat grass due to a lack of fiber" in their diets, both of which currently lack substantial scientific support.
Is Grass-Eating a Cause for Concern?
As we've discussed, grass-eating seems to be a common pastime for both domestic dogs and wild canines.
Nevertheless, if you notice this behavior becoming obsessive in your dog, it may be time to evaluate their intestinal health and nutritional status.
While some dogs may eat grass out of boredom, others might do it because it's rewarding.
However, in my experience as a dog trainer, I've observed certain health-related reasons why dogs eat grass:
To relieve gastrointestinal upset: Despite the results of the 2007 study, many dogs with gastrointestinal issues eat grass instinctively, knowing it will trigger vomiting or a bowel movement to ease their discomfort.
To balance the microbiome: Grass is rich in prebiotic fiber that could help balance your dog's intestinal flora.
To eliminate intestinal parasites: Like chimpanzees consuming certain plants to increase intestinal motility and purge parasites, dogs might eat grass for the same purpose.
To fulfill specific nutrient requirements: Dogs may select specific grasses that contain nutrients missing from their diet. The grass is a great source of fiber, phytonutrients, potassium, and chlorophyll; it even provides digestive enzymes.
What to Do If Your Dog is a Regular Grass-Eater
If your dog's grass-eating habit is chronic and especially if it leads to frequent vomiting, it's crucial to consult with your veterinarian.
In the meantime, consider improving her diet, especially if she's currently consuming kibble or non-human-grade commercial dog food.
Dogs fed a balanced, species-specific diet are less likely to obsessively consume grass since they get all the nourishment they need from their food. This also results in fewer digestive issues.
Introducing probiotics and digestive enzymes can further benefit dogs with sensitive stomachs. If your dog's nutrition is optimal and her microbiome is healthy, yet she continues to eat significant amounts of grass, consider growing your own sunflower sprouts.
These sprouts provide an easy, inexpensive source of fresh, organic vegetation packed with more nutrients than grass.
Suppose your dog is selective about the grass she eats and prefers tall, broad grasses (like the ones that usually grow along a fence line or between sidewalk cracks). In that case, she may be eating grass for enjoyment or its nutritional or digestive benefits.
As long as the grass she's sampling is free of pesticides, herbicides, and other contaminants, there's no cause for alarm.
This journey into understanding the "dog-eating grass" phenomenon shows us that, while it may seem odd, it's a natural and generally harmless behavior for our furry companions.
What matters most is ensuring they're healthy and getting the nutrition they need. And, of course, providing plenty of love and quality time – because a happy dog makes a happy owner.
Conclusion
Grass-eating by dogs is a widespread phenomenon and is generally harmless. But obsessive grass-eating or frequent vomiting due to this behavior should be taken seriously.
If you're still concerned about your dog's grass-eating habit, or if you want advice on how to keep your dog healthy and happy, feel free to contact us.
Remember, every dog behavior has a tale to tell, and we are here to help you understand it. So, why wait? Take your first step towards a more informed and enjoyable pet ownership journey.
Contact The Trusted Companion today and see how our trusted dog trainer can help you succeed. Your dog’s well-being is our success.
FAQs
Why do dogs eat grass?
Dogs may eat grass for several reasons, including to improve digestion, fulfill some unmet nutritional need, or because they're bored or enjoy the taste. It's a common behavior among dogs and is generally not a cause for concern unless it becomes excessive or is accompanied by signs of illness.
Is it safe for my dog to eat grass?
Yes, it is generally safe for dogs to eat grass as long as it's free of pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful chemicals. However, consuming too much grass can lead to vomiting or an upset stomach in some dogs. If your dog is eating grass frequently, it's a good idea to monitor them for any signs of gastrointestinal discomfort or other health issues.
Can eating grass be a sign of illness in dogs?
Eating grass can sometimes be a sign of an underlying illness, especially if symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite accompany it. Dogs might eat grass to induce vomiting if they're feeling unwell. If you notice any unusual behaviors or health issues in your dog, consult a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
How can I prevent my dog from eating grass?
To prevent your dog from eating grass, ensure they have a balanced diet and consider engaging them in more physical activity and mental stimulation to distract them from the behavior. Providing safe, alternative chew toys and treats can also help reduce their interest in eating grass.
Should I train my dog not to eat grass?
Training your dog not to eat grass isn't necessary for most dogs, as it's a natural behavior that's not usually harmful. However, if your dog is eating grass excessively or you're concerned about potential toxins in the grass they're consuming, you can train them to avoid it by redirecting their attention to other activities or using commands like "leave it." Always use positive reinforcement techniques when training your dog.