Why Dogs Eat Grass

Have you ever wondered why dogs eat grass? Lots of dogs do it. But have you ever wondered whether they are sick, hungry, or bored? And more importantly, whether this behavior is good for your dog or bad?

Many experts have weighed in on the subject, but it seems there are several schools of thought on the subject. Here are a few of their theories:

• Dogs will eat indigestible substances whenever they suffer from poor nutrition or when they are feeling extremely hungry.
• They may have intestinal worms.
• They may need more roughage or fiber in their diet.
• Eating grass in an inherited and instinctual behavior. In the wild, canines hunt for their prey. These prey animals fed on grass, and the dog would eat the entire animal, even the grass in the animal’s stomach.
• Dogs eat grass when they feel ill and want to regurgitate something.

While experts may not agree on why dogs eat grass, they do generally, agree that eating grass is not harmful to the dog.

When eating grass is dangerous!

If your lawn or the dog park has been treated with chemical pesticides or herbicides, make sure your dog does not graze on the grass and wash their paws after a walk (dogs lick their paws).

Glyphosate Weed Killer containing glyphosate have been named in multiple class action lawsuits for exposure in humans. Can you imagine the dangerous effects if a dog actually licked or ingested some? 

Are my lawn treatment products safe?

Read the product labels and consider natural pesticides.

If you use a gardener, ask them to identify the products used.

Two great resources include the EPA website (you can search by brands) or online, you can search for any product name and include “MSDS” (Material Safety Data Sheet).

If you ever notice your dog becoming lethargic and vomiting after eating grass visit your Veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. 

Adding Greens to Your Dog’s Diet

If your dog likes to eat grass, try giving him wheatgrass (also referred to as “cat grass”). It’s a very healthy snack for dogs with plenty of fiber, chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Another healthy way to add greens to your dog’s diet is to feed him fresh vegetables like cooked broccoli, Brussel sprouts, peas, green beans, and dark, leafy lettuce which are also powerful antioxidants. These greens are very nutritious and they can help satisfy your dog’s cravings. Just remember when you introduce a new food to your dog, give him just a small portion and then wait 24 hours to make sure the food agrees with him.

It's warming up outside, go for an adventure!  

Going out? Why not take your dog along for the ride? Dogs are pack animals who love spending time with you – and they love riding in the car. At 4Knines, we offer premium travel supplies and safety products to make the experience safer and more pleasant for you and your dog. Try our dog seat covers to help keep your car seats clean or our dog deterrent barriers to prevent dogs from jumping in the front seat. Our stylish harnesses are built to last and our super premium crate/travel mats are soft, comfy and machine washable.