Why do dogs eat grass?

Why do dogs eat grass? – Did we overlook buying and growing a grazing animal? 😉
It can be very disturbing when the four-legged friend is suddenly grazing like the cow in the pasture, so in this post we will explain all the possible ways why your dog likes to eat grass.

Of course, your fur friend always gets enough food, so they can not really be hungry. Many owners question if the dog is okay, something missing, or just bored?
Even experts are not 100% sure why some dogs like to eat grass.
Sometimes dogs simply eat grass out of boredom. However, it may also be a sign of something more serious, such as a nutrient deficiency.

If the dog eats grass, it usually has no significant consequences. It is not uncommon for wild and domesticated dogs and cats to occasionally eat grass. Almost all living things have a small proportion of plants in their diet.

Why is my dog ​​eating grass?

Your dog can eat grass for a variety of reasons, and most of them will not cause many to no problems at all. Nevertheless, dog owners, of course, want to know where the grass eating behavior of their darling comes from.

They like the taste
Dogs naturally eat everything, including the contents of the stomach from the killed prey. Inside are plant parts, grasses and berries, which the killed animal has eaten before. Therefore, the idea comes that dogs eat grass because its delicious and they like the taste.

Boredom
Probably the most likely reason for eating grass is boredom. Mostly the dog is chewing on straws when it is quiet and there is no distraction.
To prevent boredom, you can offer the dog chew toys instead, if it must remain without playmates in the garden.
In any case, you should allow some time each day for a long walk and a bit of training or “brain work” with the dog. The grass eating becomes less when the dog is busy and has a task.

Nutrient deficiency
Some veterinarians believe that eating grass is a sign of nutrient deficiency in dogs. In the grass are chlorophyll, plant nutrients and plant fibers that contain a lot of fiber. Besides, it is a source of digestive enzymes.
If a lack of nutrients is suspected, the dog should be presented to the veterinarian. The veterinarian can check if a supplement or other food should be given.
With a high fiber diet, such a deficiency could be compensated.

Worms / parasites
The eating of grass in dogs could also be an indication of a worm infestation. Plant parts and grass are also taken by other species to remove parasites from the digestive tract. The long blades of grass act like a brush and the parasites can be “spruced up”. Any suspicion of a worm infestation should be clarified by the veterinarian, in order to avoid consequences for the health and a contagion.

The dog vomits
It is well known that dogs eat grass when they feel sick and the dog vomits to make itself feel better.
The blades of grass wrap around indigestible remnants (such as bones) in the stomach, and some experts believe that it also serves as a detox process.
However, some dogs do not vomit after eating the grass.
If you suspect a serious gastrointestinal problem, please make an appointment with your vet quickly.

Pesticides & fertilizers
While the grass itself is not poisonous, it may have been treated with pesticides and fertilizers that are very dangerous to the dog. Especially on flowerbeds and in foreign gardens you should pay attention to the dog and prevent it from eating the grass if necessary. Many of these remedies are highly toxic, so they can harm even in small amounts.
Pet owners and neighbors & friends can help by using only non-toxic garden products.

A problem is also fertilized fields on which bacteria multiply. These come from animal carcasses and can accumulate in the grass on the edges and in puddles and can be picked up by the dog.

At the edges of fields and when recently fertilized, you should therefore take particular care and prevent the dog from eating grass or drinking from puddles. It is also advisable to wash the paws at home.

Substitute for the dogs grass eating

These vegetables and fruits your dog can eat without hesitation. Please pay particular attention to salads, that they are free of pesticides (organic) and washed before you give them to your dog.

Some dogs like to eat fruits and vegetables in small pieces, but you can also grate or puree them and mix them under the food.

• salad
• cucumber
• apple
• kiwi
• carrots
• celery
• cauliflower
• broccoli
• banan
• parsley