Pet Care Blog. Why does my dog keep eating grass? Is my dog poisoned? Why Dogs Eat Grass Concerned dog owners are often left scratching their heads wondering why their dogs seem to love eating grass. Physical Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass Just like people, dogs require fiber in their diets in order to have an efficiently functioning digestive system.
Psychological Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass Much like people who mindlessly bite their nails, dogs will often eat grass due to boredom or anxiety. Is it safe for my dog to eat grass? Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets.
For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. If your dog is showing symptoms of gastrointestinal tract upset contact our Memphis emergency vets right away. Nor can you tell if your dog is eating grass contaminated with intestinal parasites such as hookworms that come from droppings left behind by other dogs.
Also, keep in mind that many house and garden plants are toxic to dogs, especially if eaten. Revise your dog's diet. If your pooch seems to be eating grass for its flavor and texture, try planting a low, wide container of edible, organic grass just for him; this may keep him satisfied and away from the landscaping.
You can find grass seeds at pet stores. Train your dog to ignore grass. If he keeps pulling you off the sidewalk to dine on grass, distract him when he's grazing by gently leading him in another direction. Or, try bringing high-value treats along when you take him on a walk. If he veers off course to nibble grass, give him a verbal cue such as "Sit" or "Drop" and reward him with a tasty treat when he complies.
Also, keep your dog busy. Make sure he's able to entertain himself while he's alone outside. Give him a rugged chew toy to occupy his mind and his jaws.
And exercise his body by investing in toys that don't need a pet-parent involved, such as an interactive dog toy that dispenses treats or an electronic ball launcher. Remember: It's not the grass itself that's bad for your dog, but the potential contamination from lawn chemicals and intestinal parasites. When your pup is distracted and away from temptation, and you'll both be the better for it. By Debra Steilen August 24, If your dog is locked up in the backyard alone all day, they may be eating grass to help pass the time.
To keep your dog entertained for long periods, make sure you provide them with plenty of toys. Help them exercise by playing together for at least 30 minutes each day and taking them for regular walks. Many diet deficiencies are rooted in missing vitamins, nutrients, or minerals that are absent from daily intake. Dogs are omnivores and naturally crave the act of eating grass as part of their genetic makeup, dating back to when they hunted their own prey. Of course, they might also just enjoy the taste and texture of grass in their mouths, especially when new grass is emerging for the first time during spring.
The consumption of grass can be a sign that your dog is attempting to relieve an upset stomach and some pups do vomit soon after eating it. If you notice them eating grass more frequently or excessively, be alert of potential underlying illnesses that your dog is attempting to self-treat. Also look for vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, decrease in appetite, blood in stool, lethargy, or lip licking.
While chewing on the lawn is a common behavioral action in many canines, you can train your dog out of the behavior to help provide peace of mind.
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