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Why Is My Dog Eating Grass? — Real Answers (From a Real Dog Parent)

Why do dogs eat grass? Learn the real reasons behind this common behavior and when it's time to worry. Get vet-approved tips from a fellow dog parent.

Ever catch your dog casually munching on grass like it's a salad bar?

At first, I thought my pup was just being weird (again). But when I saw her throw it all up 10 minutes later, I panicked — was she sick? Hungry? Bored? Losing her mind?

Turns out, dogs eating grass is super common, and it’s not always something to worry about. But depending on the reason behind it, you might want to pay closer attention.

Let’s break it all down — why dogs eat grass, when it’s normal, and when to call the vet.

A happy labrador dog eating grass in a green backyard on a sunny day, showing normal canine behavior

Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Grass?

Short answer? Yes — most of the time.

Vets call this behavior pica, which is when animals eat non-food items. Grass is one of the most popular “non-food snacks” for dogs. Up to 80% of dogs have done it at some point!

But it doesn’t always mean something’s wrong.

Top Reasons Dogs Eat Grass

1. Upset Stomach or Nausea

This is the classic explanation. Some dogs eat grass to make themselves vomit when their stomach feels off.

Signs it’s a tummy issue:

  • Your dog eats grass frantically or in large amounts
  • Vomits shortly afterward
  • Seems better after throwing up

If this happens only once in a while, it’s probably not serious. But if it’s happening often, call your vet.

2. Boredom or Anxiety

Yep, sometimes dogs eat grass because they’re just... bored.

If your dog isn’t getting enough mental stimulation or physical exercise, they might chew grass out of habit, like we bite our nails.

Try:

  • Longer walks or new routes
  • Puzzle toys or treat dispensers
  • Play sessions to burn off extra energy

3. Nutritional Deficiency

Some experts think dogs may eat grass to make up for missing nutrients — especially fiber or certain minerals.

Consider a vet-recommended food upgrade or adding more greens to their bowl if needed.

4. They Just Like It

This one surprised me the most — some dogs just enjoy the texture or taste of grass. Especially young, spring grass that’s soft and sweet.

Think of it like a dog version of a leafy snack. Weird? Yes. Harmful? Usually not.

When Should You Worry About Grass-Eating?

Let’s be honest — dogs do a lot of strange things. But here’s when grass-eating might be a red flag:

  • Your dog vomits every time after eating grass
  • They're also refusing food or acting lethargic
  • You see worms in their stool or notice diarrhea
  • They’re obsessed with eating plants, dirt, or non-edible things

Also: watch for pesticides or herbicides. If your dog eats chemically treated grass, that’s dangerous and definitely vet territory.

How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Grass (If Needed)

If you want to cut back on the grazing, here’s what helped with my own grass-chomping pup:

✅ Keep Their Mind Busy

Daily walks, new toys, training sessions — it all helps!

✅ Rule Out Health Issues

Talk to your vet about their digestion, diet, and any missing nutrients.

✅ Try Dog-Safe Greens

Some dog parents add cooked green beans, pumpkin, or spinach to meals. It satisfies their craving for greens without the mystery lawn salad.

Bottom Line: Should You Be Worried If Your Dog Eats Grass?

Most of the time? Nope. It’s totally normal dog behavior.

But if it’s happening too often, or you notice other symptoms (vomiting, low energy, diarrhea), don’t brush it off — your dog might be trying to tell you something.

Keep an eye, trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to check in with your vet.

Because at the end of the day, our job as dog parents is simple: Notice. Ask. Love hard.

Read also: The Surprising Reasons Why Dogs Roll on the Grass