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The grass is always greener on the other side here the other side is of dogs. Every dog owner will come across their dog eating grass at least once in their life. Well, as always, dog owners will try to stop them, but here, do not do that. This is because eating grass is a common behaviour in almost all dogs. According to CCSPCA, 2016, dogs often eat grass as a remedy for an upset stomach. Nevertheless, this is not always the case, as some dogs might consume grass out of boredom or even for its taste.
Read on to know everything that dog owners need to know about dogs eating grass. This will include explaining why dogs eat grass, whether or not it is ok to let your dog eat grass, and if you need to take your dog to the vet to eat grass.
5 Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass
When it comes to dog-eating grass, there are 5 main reasons. Some dogs will eat grass just because they like how it tastes or because it is a way for dogs to entertain themselves when they are bored. Other times, dogs will eat grass because they have an upset stomach, need more fibre in their diet, or have a diet deficiency. Take a detailed look at these reasons:
Grass Tastes Good
Dogs are curious creatures by nature, and it is not uncommon for them to experiment with different tastes and textures. For some dogs, the taste of grass can be appealing, and they might eat it as a form of exploration or simply because they find it delicious. In some cases, dogs may even develop a habit of eating grass regularly, even if they have no underlying health issues.
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Dog Is Bored
Dogs, like humans, can experience boredom and may resort to eating grass as a means of entertainment. This is especially true for dogs who spend extended periods in the backyard with little stimulation or interaction. While occasional grass-eating due to boredom is typically not a serious issue, excessive grass consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress or other health problems. It is essential to provide dogs with adequate exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and discourage excessive grass-eating behaviour.
Dog Has An Upset Stomach
Dogs will commonly eat grass when they have an upset stomach. If your dog is eating grass and has diarrhoea or vomiting, their stomach issues are likely the reason why. There are two reasons why dogs instinctively eat grass when they have an upset stomach. The first is that grass contains fibre, which can help soothe stomach problems. Additionally, grass has been shown to help settle the stomach by bringing the stomach’s pH level down and soothing the pain and symptoms.
Your Dog Needs More Fibre
Since grass contains a lot of fibre, many dogs will eat grass simply because they need more fibre in their diet. Dogs with a poor diet may have loose stools or be constipated regularly.
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If you suspect your dog is eating grass because they are not getting enough fibre, it may be a good idea to take a look at your dog’s diet and supplement them with some dog-safe fruits and vegetables. Here are some fruits and vegetables that are high in fibre and safe to give to dogs.
- Blueberries
- Carrots
- Apples (without the core or any seeds)
- Cantaloupe
- Watermelon
- Cucumbers
- Pumpkin
- Broccoli
- Celery
- Peas
- Green beans
- Spinach
The Dog Has A Diet Deficiency
Some dogs will also eat grass because they have a diet deficiency. This means that a dog is not getting enough vitamins and minerals in their diet. This can occur when dogs have a medical condition or are not eating good quality dog food. If you are concerned that your dog may have a diet deficiency, then it is a good idea to consult with your vet.
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So, why do dogs eat grass? There are a lot of possible reasons. Most of the time, this is harmless behaviour, but it also bears watching. If your pet seems to be eating grass more than usual, take them to the vet to get checked out.
