Does your dog persistently munch on grass during walks or trips to the park? Despite what you might have been told, it doesn't necessarily mean they're feeling ill. In truth, it's something pet owners should still monitor - but a vet has reassured them that their dogs aren't trying to make themselves vomit.
Getting to grips with our pets can be challenging given their inability to communicate with us directly. Dogs, however, use their whole bodies and particular behaviours to express how they're feeling. This is why keeping tabs on what your four-legged companion is up to can prove incredibly valuable for owners, offering them an insight into what their pet is thinking and feeling.
Once owners identify certain behaviours, they'll be far better equipped to understand what their dog is trying to tell them. According to Catherine Henstridge, a UK-qualified small animal veterinary surgeon, a pet eating grass is "normal and natural behaviour".
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
She said: "Why do dogs eat grass? Lots of dogs love to, but is it okay? Lots of people worry that if their dog eats grass it means they're feeling poorly, but actually studies have shown that less than 10% of dogs show any signs of illness when they choose to eat some extra greens."
Catherine continued: "In fact, it's a really normal and natural behaviour that we see both in wild dogs and also in wolves. So when your dog eats some grass, it's not because they feel sick, it's not because they're trying to make themselves sick, it's just because they like it."
Dogs Trust, the leading UK charity, also shed some light on why dogs eat grass, highlighting boredom as another contributing factor.
The charity said: "It might not be your idea of fun, but eating grass could be your dog looking for some stimulation if they're bored. If you think boredom might be causing your dog to eat grass, provide them with some more enriching activities.
"If you run over to your dog every time they eat grass, they may learn it's a good way of getting your attention. This may then encourage them to do it more often. Avoid giving your dog attention when they eat grass if you think they could be doing it for this reason. Make sure you reward and praise them for any other behaviours you want to see more of."
When to Contact a Vet
Consuming small quantities of grass remains a minor part of a dog's natural diet and shouldn't cause much harm. However, eating excessive amounts can upset the stomach, causing your dog to bring it all back up.
Dogs Trust advises owners who spot their dog eating grass to consult a vet if the behaviour is accompanied by the following symptoms: eating other non-food items, refusing their regular meals, any changes or problems with toileting, or vomiting.
