You’re halfway through a walk, your dog is happily sniffing around and suddenly decides the roadside grass looks like a five-star salad.
It’s incredibly common especially here in SA. But why do dogs eat grass, and does it mean something is wrong?
Sometimes, dogs just like grass
Despite the popular idea that dogs only eat grass when they’re feeling sick, there isn’t one simple explanation.
Some dogs seem to enjoy the taste or texture. Others may eat it out of boredom, curiosity or simply because grazing has become part of their normal routine. And yes, some dogs will eat grass and then vomit, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they ate the grass specifically to make themselves sick.
When should you pay attention?
The occasional mouthful of grass from an otherwise happy, healthy dog is generally not a reason to panic.
It’s worth chatting to your vet, however, if the behaviour suddenly becomes excessive or is accompanied by things like:
- repeated vomiting or diarrhoea
- loss of appetite
- lethargy
- obvious tummy discomfort
- unusual changes in behaviour
A sudden change from your dog’s normal habits is usually more important than the grass-eating itself.
Be careful where they graze
This is particularly important when you’re out walking.
Grass on verges, pavements, parks and communal areas may have been treated with weed killer, pesticides or other chemicals. There’s also the possibility of contaminated water, animal waste or other things you’d rather your dog didn’t swallow.
And during our warmer South African months, keep an eye out for grass seeds and other plant material that can become lodged in paws, ears, noses and coats.
The bottom line
If your dog occasionally stops for a quick nibble during a walk and is otherwise completely normal, there’s usually no need to make a big deal of it.
Just keep an eye on how often they’re doing it and whether anything else has changed.
Sometimes your dog really is just eating the lawn.
Because apparently the expensive dog food at home wasn’t quite enough. 🐶🌱
Yours in Paws,
The PawPaw Team