Why Dogs Eat Grass and How to Stop It

Eating grass is a common behavior in dogs and isn't as concerning as other things dogs try to eat. However, you may wish to stop your dog from eating grass if you're concerned about chemicals or parasites on the ground. The reason behind this foraging behavior isn't entirely clear, but it may be a normal behavior inherited from dogs' wild relatives, a sign of a health or behavioral issue, or a way to fulfill an unmet nutritional need. Here are some potential explanations for the behavior and how to stop your dog from eating grass, if necessary.

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

Dogs may eat grass for several reasons, but experts don't have a clear understanding of why.
The term pica refers to eating things that aren't food, including dirt, feces, toys, and grass. Most experts agree, however, that grass-eating is normal canine behavior and that this type of pica usually doesn't cause problems. So why grass?

Grass Tastes Good

Some dogs simply enjoy the flavor and texture of grass. The modern domestic dog has a limited diet in general, but its wild relatives continue to enjoy a diverse bounty of food. Coyotes, for example, typically eat vegetable matter found in the stomachs and intestines of prey animals. Many wild canines also eat roots, grasses, and berries in addition to the meat they kill or scavenge.

This tendency to eat plants can show up in your dog's behavior too. It's likely that, in addition to grass, your dog may enjoy small amounts of safe plant snacks, such as sliced bananas, green beans, or spinach from time to time.

Nutritional Needs

There's speculation that grazing on grass provides fiber or traces of vitamins and minerals. Nutritional deficiencies are rare in dogs fed commercial diets, however. Dogs who are fed homemade diets have a greater risk of nutrient deficiencies because it's harder to ensure these diets are complete and balanced.

Stomach Upset

Eating grass doesn't always result in vomiting, but it can sometimes. Some people believe that a dog with an upset stomach may eat grass in an attempt to stimulate vomiting and get some relief, or it may be that eating grass causes an upset stomach for some dogs. It is sometimes difficult to tell which came first, the nausea or the grass-eating, and it often becomes a chicken-and-egg dilemma. There have not been many scientific studies that support these theories, however, and it seems that most dogs that eat grass are not doing so due to illness but rather that this is a normal behavior for them.

Boredom

Some experts think that bored dogs eat grass simply because it gives them something to do. Quite often, this happens with dogs that don't get enough exercise or mental enrichment, particularly in young dogs and puppies that have an abundance of pent-up energy to burn.

Behavioral Conditions

Pica in dogs is sometimes related to behavioral issues, including anxiety, depression, and compulsive disorders. These dogs may consume grass frantically, especially when stressed. Your veterinarian can help address behavioral issues or refer you to an animal behavior specialist.

Should I Stop My Dog From Eating Grass?

Occasional grass-eating isn't usually a cause for concern, but it's not without risk. It's best to stop your dog from eating excessive amounts of grass in unfamiliar yards or public spaces. Grass may contain things that are harmful to dogs:

• Chemicals, such as pesticides, fertilizer, garbage, or toxins like antifreeze
• Parasites (microscopic eggs can live in soil or in the feces of other animals)
• Microorganisms that can cause infectious diseases, including parvovirus and leptospirosis
• Unsafe human foods

Never allow your dog to eat grass that's been chemically treated as this could lead to illness. Even if you don't use herbicides or pesticides on your lawn and garden, your neighbor might. Harmful substances could end up in your yard via water runoff or wind. This also pertains to public areas, such as parks, where the grass may have been chemically treated or contaminated with feces from wild and stray animals.

Indoor dogs may indulge their urge to graze by nibbling houseplants. This may be a dangerous or even fatal activity, depending on the plant species. To be on the safe side, avoid growing any potentially poisonous plants inside or out.

How to Stop Dogs From Eating Grass

There are several things you can do to stop your dog from eating grass, including training, enrichment, and diet changes.

Training

You can verbally ask your dog to stop eating grass or plants by teaching them the 'leave it' cue. Although this probably won't stop them from going back to it later, they can eventually learn through repetition. Offer your dog an alternative to eating grass, such as a valuable treat, a favorite toy, or an interactive game. Playing fetch or tug-of-war can help your dog burn off energy and (hopefully) forget about that tasty grass.

Enrichment

Be sure your dog is getting enough enrichment and exercise each day. This includes physical exercise and mental stimulation to ward off boredom. Give your dog time to sniff on walks and take the time to play with your dog each day. Offer interactive toys and food puzzles to keep their minds and bodies occupied.

Diet Changes

Examine the ingredients in your dog's food to ensure it's a balanced diet for your dog's life stage. You can ask your veterinarian about changing to a food that is higher in fiber or improves digestion. In addition, you can provide a patch or a container of healthy wheatgrass for your dog to munch as an alternative to grass. Pet supply stores often have growing kits available that are safe for dogs.

Know When to Call a Veterinarian

A sudden increase in grazing incidence may be a sign that your dog is sick or missing vital nutrients. Pay attention to your dog's activities so you can discuss them with your vet if necessary. Contact your vet if you're worried about your dog's grass-eating or you notice any signs of illness.