Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? The Reasoning Behind This Unique Behavior

The Truth Behind Why Dogs Eat Grass

Springtime in Chicago: the days are getting longer, the winter chill is thawing, and…your dog is eating grass? Many dog owners wonder why their healthy dogs sometimes eat grass. Though it is a strange behavior, it is also surprisingly common. But is it normal, safe, or a warning sign? In this Green Paws Chicago blog, we explore this unique dog behavior, its meaning, and why it’s so common.

Is Eating Grass Dangerous to Dogs?

Grass itself does not pose risks to dogs. However, the substances present on grass surfaces may cause sickness. Public fields often receive pesticide or herbicide treatments for their grass maintenance. The substances contained in these chemicals possess toxic properties that endanger dogs.

When Grass Becomes a Problem

Regular grass consumption followed by vomiting in dogs should make you suspect a health problem. Before panicking, look for signs including tiredness, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Contact your vet when you observe these signs.

Vomiting after Eating Grass

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass and Vomit?

When dogs eat excessive amounts of grass, they may experience linear stomach irritation, which activates their immune system to cause vomiting.

When Does Vomiting After Eating Grass Call for Concern?

It is not unusual for dogs to only vomit once after grazing on grass. However, vomiting every time, or multiple times a day, warrants your action, especially if accompanied by the symptoms mentioned earlier. Remember that dogs cannot express their sickness with verbal communication, but they can show you.

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass, Though?

The belief that dogs eat grass only when sick is not accurate. So, why do dogs eat grass even when they are healthy? Some dogs enjoy eating grass because of its taste and texture. Additionally, solitude and boredom can drive dogs to eat grass. Grass is also full of fiber, which dogs need to maintain proper digestion.

A dog will naturally eat grass whenever its diet lacks sufficient roughage. This behavior is a natural response to handle digestive issues. You may need to check your dog’s diet if you observe soft stools, constipation, or irregular digestion in your dog.

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass When Sick?

Grass triggers bowel movements and vomiting when consumed by dogs. Dogs consume grass to induce vomiting, which makes them feel better. A few moments before consuming grass, your dog may start pacing or show signs of lip-licking behavior and uneasiness. Such behavior indicates that the dog already feels unwell.

Should You Be Worried About Your Dog Eating Grass?

Don’t Panic

Worrying when your dog does something unexpected, like eating grass, is natural. However, this grass consumption behaviour is not always a sign of sickness, as most of the time it’s harmless. Rather than reacting immediately due to panicking, observe other behaviours. This includes observing your dog’s energy level, whether they are eating, drinking, and playful as usual. If everything seems normal, then there’s nothing to worry about.

What to Do If You’re Still Unsure

Evaluate your dog’s daily routine and monitor its feeding habits carefully. Are they bored, under-stimulated, or missing nutrients? If unsure, you should schedule short consultations with your veterinary professional.

Eating grass by your dog could be harmless, but it could also hint at more significant health problems. Thus, attention to the little things can make a big difference in your dog’s well-being.

To make sure your dog is getting sufficient care and attention, even while you’re away, be sure to contact GreenPaws Chicago for all of your Chicago pet sitting needs.