Mary Allen
Dogs love to eat grass and some even do it daily. Fortunately, most experts say that this is not something to worry about. So why do they want to eat grass so badly?
“We are All Omnivores”
Dogs, unlike cats, are not carnivores. But, they are not exactly omnivores either. For tens of thousands of years, these omnivores have been eating whatever they come across, as long as they have met their basic dietary requirements.
The modern dog here differs from its ancestors; partly due to evolution and domestication. The dog’s ancestors usually ate up all their prey, including the stomach contents of herbivores. Today’s dogs are instead looking for plants as an alternative source of nutrition. They are usually on the hunt for grass (because it is usually easiest to get over), but wild dogs also often eat fruit and berries.
Dogs can thus find their nourishment in a large selection of plant-based foods, but this does not explain why dogs usually vomit after eating grass.
When the Stomach is Upset
If the dog suffers from a bloated or upset stomach, it will try to find a solution. To many dogs, the grass seems to be one. When they eat grass, the blades of grass tickle the throat and stomach and it is this feeling that can make the dog vomit – especially if they swallow the blades of grass whole without chewing them first.
Although dogs do not usually graze on grass like cows, it is not uncommon for them to eat some grass, chew their straw a little, and swallow without vomiting. This may be because they simply like the taste, or because they want to add some fiber and roughage to their regular food.
Necessary Nutritional Content
Regardless of the reason for your dog eating grass, experts believe that there is no danger in letting the dog eat. In fact, grass contains essential nutrients that your dog may need, even though it usually eats whole foods. If you notice that your dog likes to eat grass or other small green plants, you can try adding natural herbs or cooked vegetables to their food. Dogs are not very picky about food but are usually not too happy about raw vegetables. They are almost like big hairy toddlers.
In summary, eating grass is nothing to worry about. What you should be vigilant about is a sudden need to chew grass, as this may be a sign that your dog is trying to self-medicate because it is not feeling well. Here it may be a good idea to contact your veterinarian.
If your dog likes to eat some grass on a regular basis, try to avoid the grass that has been treated with insect spray, fertilizer, or other chemicals that can be toxic to your dog.