First and foremost if you find your dog eating grass do not panic because it isn’t an unnatural phenomenon or something too serious. If you are wondering why your dog is eating grass, you need to know that may be your dog is loving the taste of grass or your dog is actually bored. So, it’s okay if your dog is eating grass – do not panic.
However, let’s delve into some more reasons.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Here are some of the most common reasons for a dog eating grass.
Stomach Upset Can be A Reason:
It is known that many dogs do this when they have diarrhea or when their stomach is upset. If you notice that your dog is having digestion issues for long and eating grass not his food, it means you should get in touch with your Vet.
Tastes Great?
Yes, your dog might just be bored with his own food and exploring something else. In such a process, it has found grass to be quite tasty and happily eating it instead of food. Many pet owners have revealed that it’s the habit of their dog to eat grass and they are doing well.
Related: Should you wet dog dry food?
It’s Their Boredom:
Yes, dogs often feel bored and look for ways to get themselves entertained. If you find your dog is eating grass and not his regular food, it might be possible your dog is bored.
But how do they get bored?
If you dog is spending a lot of time alone in the backyard or indoors without much interaction, your dog might get bored. In such a scenario, your dog might just start eating grass and find it amusing.
Just a Curiosity:
It might be possible that your dog is a bit curious and like every other dog he is just a but curious and trying to explore things by mouth.
Learning from Some Other Dog:
It is possible that your dog is eating grass by watching another one at home? Is your other dog doing the same activity?
Diet Deficiency:
As per experts when dogs eat grass and some other non-food items, it might be due to deficiency in diet. It might be due to deficiency in nutrients, minerals and minerals.
These were some of the probable causes in case you need to know.
But…
When Should I Be Concerned About Dog Eating Grass and Not Food?
It shouldn’t be a concern if you notice that your dog behavior is normal. But, you can get in touch with your vet, if you notice some of these things:
- Your dog gets sick often
- It is eating grass excessively
- Dog has stopped eating his food.
- Is quite lethargic and not in playful usual mood.
Okay, so is there any way to solve the problem? Can you try something before getting in touch with vet?
How to Prevent my Dog Eating Grass?
You can do a few things that can prevent your dog from eating grass. Try some or all of these and check if it works.
Ensure Your Dog Gets Proper Nutrition:
Make sure your dog is receiving a balanced and nutritious diet. You can consult an expert for your dog diet.
At times, dogs may eat grass due to nutritional deficiencies so bringing a change in the diet can help in preventing the problem.
Grazing Opportunities:
Provide safe, dog-friendly plants or herbs for your dog to graze on. This will help to distract your dog, help them get rid of their boredom and also prevent the problem of eating grass.
You can create a small designated area with plants like wheatgrass or catnip that are safe for dogs to consume.
Regular Exercise:
This is probably one of the most effective ways to prevent this grass eating habit. Ensure your dog is getting enough physical and mental exercise to prevent boredom. A tired dog is less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors like eating grass.
Training and Distraction:
Yes, how can you forget this? Your dog can be trained as well.
Teach your dog basic commands like “leave it” or “drop it.” Use these commands to redirect their attention away from eating grass. Keep toys or treats handy to offer as a distraction.
Keep an Eye on Your Dog:
When you’re outside with your dog, closely supervise their behavior. If they start to eat grass, gently redirect their attention to a toy or an activity they enjoy. This can help in reducing and doing away with the behavior of eating grass.
Do Things to Reduce Their Boredom:
Provide toys, puzzles, and interactive games that keep your dog mentally engaged. This can help reduce their desire to eat grass out of boredom. It has helped many dog owners in reducing the habit of their dog eating grass.
Use a Muzzle:
If your dog’s grass-eating habit is causing health concerns or if you need to prevent them from eating grass during walks, consider using a basket muzzle after consulting with a veterinarian or professional trainer.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does eating grass hurt a dog?
No, it doesn’t hurt a dog but if your dog is eating grass and not food, it might not be good for overall health of your dog.
Why is my dog frantically eating grass all of a sudden?
This might be due to some deficiency in your dog’s diet. It might be that your dog loves the taste of the grass. It is also possible that your dog is bored or stressed.
Can Anxiety Cause Dogs to Eat Grass?
Yes, anxiety can cause them to eat grass. Sometimes when they are alone and bored, they start eating grass just to stay occupied.
Do Dogs Feel Better After Having Grass?
Yes, there is evidence that dogs feel a lot better after eating grass.
