Dogs eating grass is a common sight, but when should this behaviour raise concerns?
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Natural Instinct Dogs are not strict carnivores. In the wild, they often consume plants to meet their dietary needs. Grass-eating might be an instinctual behaviour inherited from their wild ancestors who scavenged for a balanced diet. While our pets are fed high-quality food and don’t have this concern, the instinct remains.
Gastrointestinal Self-Care Veterinarians have long speculated that dogs may eat grass as a form of self-medication. When feeling unwell, they might ingest grass to induce vomiting, trying to expel whatever is causing their discomfort.
Nutrient Supplementation Grass is rich in fibre and contains enzymes beneficial for digestion. Dogs might instinctively seek out grass to supplement their diet with missing nutrients or to provide additional fibre to support a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
Boredom Dogs are intelligent creatures that need mental stimulation. When they lack it, they might eat grass out of boredom or as a subtle signal for their owners to engage with them.
When Does Grass-Eating Become a Concern?
While grass is generally safe for dogs, ensuring they are not consuming chemically treated or toxic plants is crucial. Keep your garden free of toxic plants and avoid using lawn chemicals to protect your dog.
Additionally, a sudden increase in the volume or frequency of grass consumption can indicate an underlying health issue and warrants a vet visit. If you notice changes in your dog’s grass-eating habits or have any health concerns, consult with your veterinarian.
Grass-eating is a common behaviour in dogs for various reasons, from ancestral habits to seeking nutrition or simply out of boredom. It is usually harmless, but monitoring the type and amount of grass they consume is important.