Why does my dog keep eating grass?

Why does my dog keep eating grass?

My dog keeps eating grass. Why might that be and what can I do to stop it?

There are many reasons why a dog might eat grass. It usually isn't a cause for concern but it is worth considering why they might be doing it so you can put things in place before it does become a problem.

Nutritional Deficiency

Some dogs might eat grass to compensate for a lack of certain nutrients in their diet. Grass contains many nutrients which can be lacking in poor quality food or an unbalanced raw diet.

If you are feeding processed wet or dry food, make sure the ingredients are high quality. The first ingredient should be meat; carbohydrates should make up a minimal amount. 

If feeding raw food, use a complete, balanced food or add extra to your 80/10/10 and DIY meals. Add vegetables like spinach, kale or broccoli to their diet. These can provide the nutrients they might be seeking from grass. Easy ways to add veg and other ‘superfoods’ to compliment a basic raw diet include pre-made veg blends such as The Answers, SmartBarf, Forage Pure Blend and Finer By Nature Veg Plus.

Digestive Aid

Eating grass might be a way for them to induce vomiting to relieve an upset stomach. If this is the case, grass-eating should cease once they are feeling better. If it keeps happening, then the dog might need some help with their gut.

Pre and Probiotics

Adding pre and probiotic to your dog’s diet can help support a healthy digestive system preventing. 

Digestive enzyme

If a dog is having trouble breaking down and absorbing nutrients from their food, then digestive enzymes are a useful supplement.

Proflax, Dog's Lounge and Kiki Health are some recommended probiotics and/or digestive enzymes.

Other supplements

Other supplements such as tree barks powder (slippery elm and marshmallow root) are useful herbs for soothing the digestive tract.

Behavioural or Medical Issues

Dogs might eat grass out of boredom or as a way to attract attention from their owners. It can also be a form of exploration or play.

Pica, a syndrome where dogs eat non-food substances, can be a symptom of medical conditions such as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction and obsessive disorders.

Taste 

Many dogs simply eat grass because they like the taste. The new, juicy grass that grows in spring/early summer is particularly tasty to dogs.

In summary, grass eating isn't usually a cause for concern but it is definitely worth considering dietary, medical and behavioural factors especially if it becomes a regular occurrence.