Why do dogs eat grass?

 

Why do dogs eat grass?

Your dog is a descendant of a wolf, and an excellent hunter. You are giving her the best quality food, so why does your dog eat grass?

No one can say for sure why this is happening. Veterinary nutritionists are confident that this is normal behavior and not cause for concern.

Grazing

There are two types of this behavior. First, your dog is just eating grass without suffering any disease.

Some veterinarians suggest that dogs eat grass to make up for deficiencies in certain nutrients, but even those dogs that eat a balanced diet eat grass. Maybe they just like her taste?! So even if you feed your dog well, he may still want something green!

Instinctive behavior

The second type of this behavior is when the dog eats grass and then belches it up. It is believed to be an instinctive attempt to induce vomiting after the dog has eaten something that makes it sick.

In this case, dogs usually swallow the grass as quickly as possible, almost without chewing it. Long, un-chewed stalks of grass are thought to tickle the throat and trigger the gag reflex.

If your dog eats grass and then vomits and feels good, something may be bothering him. If your dog continues to vomit and the grass is not coming out, or the dog continues to eat grass, you should see your veterinarian.

 

Is it safe?

In any scenario, carefully monitor what kind of grass the dog is eating. Don't let her eat anything that has been treated with pesticides or fertilizers. Most gardening products will label the packaging as to whether they are safe for pets.