If you’re concerned about your dog eating grass, it’s actually quite a normal behavior. Here are several reasons why your dog does this, and ways to stop this behavior.
Diet
Some dogs will instinctively consume grass because they’re not getting enough nutrients in their diet. Grass provides fiber, so it’s said that eating grass aids in their digestion.
Solution
If you think this might be the case, discuss with your vet about the best ways to give your dog all the nutrition they need throughout the day.
Upset stomach
It’s also thought that dogs eat grass in order to relieve their upset stomach. Dogs that do this typically vomit shortly after consuming the grass. Dogs with an empty stomach are thought to typically do this as well.
Solution
If you see that your dog is attempting to eat grass, and you believe they have an upset stomach, try giving them some white rice to snack on. Rice can help with upset stomachs and diarrhea.
If your dog has an empty stomach and consumes grass in the morning after waking up, for example, watch them on their morning potty break and then feed them breakfast right away.
Boredom
Another reason for snacking on grass is because they have nothing better to do. Your dog needs something to do.
Solution
If this is the case, try playing with your dog outside for a while. You can also give them a toy with a treat inside, like a kong toy, so they have something to occupy their time.
While eating grass occasionally isn’t harmful for your dog, it can become harmful if the grass has been treated for herbicides or pesticides. Your dog could even be consuming parasites from the grass they’re eating. It’s best if you try the suggested ways to stop the behavior. Make sure to constantly monitor your dog every time they’re outside as well.