Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? Is It Okay For Dogs to Eat Grass?
If you’ve ever seen your dog nibbling on grass, you may have wondered: Is this normal? Should I be worried?
It’s actually one of the most common questions vets hear. Many dogs graze on grass regularly, and most don’t get sick from it. Sometimes it’s just curiosity, other times it may relate to diet, but only occasionally is it linked to a health issue.
This guide explains the most common reasons, when grass-eating is safe for dogs, and when it’s worth checking with your vet.
Is It Okay For a Dog to Eat Grass?
Yes, in most cases, it’s perfectly normal and okay for dogs to eat grass. Research shows the majority of dogs will chew on grass at some point, and for many, it’s simply part of their routine.
Owners often worry that it could be unsafe, but occasional grazing on untreated grass usually isn’t a cause for concern. It becomes a problem only if your dog shows signs of illness, vomits frequently afterwards, or the lawn has been treated with chemicals.
Vet-backed fact: Studies (Hart, BL et al, 2008) show that up to 79% of dogs eat grass, and most do not show any signs of illness after doing so.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? 6 Possible Reasons
1. They’re hungry, and it’s yummy!
Eating grass can help hungry dogs feel full, similar to our cheeky trips to the fridge for a snack while waiting for dinner. Many dogs will snack on grass every day, typically in the morning, and this is quite okay! (Bjone, SJ et al, 2007)
Some dogs also enjoy the fresh, slightly sweet flavour or texture of grass, especially after rain. It’s similar to our own cravings.
2. It’s Fun and Instinctual
Dogs are natural scavengers. Chewing grass may be less about nutrition and more about instinct or curiosity. Like sniffing the ground, grazing can be part of normal exploratory behaviour.
3. Dietary Fibre and Digestion
Grass provides roughage, which can help keep digestion moving and improve bowel movements. In the wild, dogs consumed prey that included plant matter. Today, dogs may turn to grass if their diet is low in fibre. Grass has always been on the menu!
4. Upset Stomach
A common myth, busted by McKenzie (2010), is that dogs eat grass to make themselves vomit or to self-medicate. However, less than 25% of dogs vomit after eating grass, and less than 10% show signs of being unwell beforehand, according to VCA.
Interestingly, there are some specific types of grass growing in Europe that researchers have investigated to see if dogs really do use them to induce vomiting. While a small number might, studies show most dogs don’t vomit after grazing - suggesting the behaviour isn’t usually linked to nausea or illness.
Still, if your dog throws up repeatedly after eating grass, it may point to an underlying digestive issue or irritation worth checking with a vet. Otherwise, occasional grass nibbling is typically normal and harmless.
5. Boredom, Attention-Seeking or Anxiety
Grass chewing may sometimes be a form of entertainment to pass the time or an attention-seeking behaviour if your dog is bored, under-stimulated, or left alone in the yard for a long period. Dogs may also eat grass as a coping mechanism if they are anxious.
6. Nutritional Deficiency
Though less common, dog eating grass may point to a lack of certain vitamins or minerals. Some dogs chew leaves, sticks, or other plants, which could be a sign that their diet isn’t fully balanced and is missing nutrients. This is sometimes associated with a condition called pica, where dogs compulsively eat non-food items.
Is Eating Grass Safe for Dogs?
It’s usually safe when:
-
The grass is untreated and free from chemicals like fertilisers or pesticides
-
Your dog is otherwise healthy and not vomiting
-
Grazing is occasional throughout the day and not obsessive
Under these conditions, grass eating can even help digestion by providing roughage for dogs. Still, keep an eye on how much your dog eats and where, since not all grass is safe. One of the main dangers for Aussie dogs is Foxtail Grass.
When You Should Worry About a Dog Eating Grass
🚩 Your Dog Vomits Frequently After Eating Grass
Vomiting now and then isn’t unusual, but frequent sickness after eating grass can point to gastrointestinal issues such as oesophagitis, Inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis or other digestive problems.
🚩 Exposure to Lawn Chemicals
Grass treated with fertilisers, weed killers, or pesticides can be toxic for dogs. Even small amounts may harm your dog, so avoid treated lawns.
🚩 Parasites or Contaminants
Public lawns or shared outdoor areas can carry bacteria or parasites. Keep your dog up to date on parasite prevention and limit grazing in risky spots.
🚩 Compulsive Grazing
If your dog is obsessed with eating grass, or does it every day, this may be a sign of stress, anxiety, boredom, or another behavioural issue.
What Dog Owners Should Do
✅ Let Them Graze Safely
If your dog occasionally nibbles clean, untreated grass and shows no signs of illness, it’s usually fine.
✅ Review Their Diet
Make sure your pup’s food is nutritionally complete and balanced. Ask your vet about adding fibre or adjusting their meals, if needed.
Tips: Petzyo meals are formulated with whole foods like broccoli, sweet potatoes, and green peas to give your dog the pawsome fibre they need to support their gut health.
✅ Offer Enrichment
Give your dog puzzle toys, playtime, training sessions or more frequent walks to help reduce boredom-driven grazing.
✅ Consult Your Vet
If your dog eats grass constantly, vomits often, or has other symptoms like diarrhoea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, check with your vet.
Key Takeaways: Why Dogs Eat Grass
|
Common Questions About Grass-Eating Dogs
Is eating grass bad for dogs?
Not inherently. As long as the grass is clean and your dog isn’t vomiting or showing other symptoms, it’s usually safe.
Can eating grass make dogs sick?
Yes, especially if the grass has been treated with chemicals or carries parasites.
Do dogs eat grass when they’re sick?
Sometimes. But in most cases, dogs eat grass without any signs of being ill beforehand.
Final Thoughts: Should You Be Worried?
For most dogs, eating grass is a normal and harmless behaviour. It could be due to hunger, curiosity, taste, digestion, or simply boredom. As long as they’re grazing in safe areas and not showing signs of illness, it’s generally nothing to worry about.
However, if your dog is vomiting often, seems unwell, or chews on grass obsessively, it’s best to consult your veterinarian. To support them with a balanced diet that naturally provides fibre and nutrients, Petzyo meals use whole, Australian-sourced ingredients designed to keep dogs healthy and happy.
References:
- Hart, BL. et al. Why do dogs and cats eat plants? Veterinary Medicine. 2008:648-649.
- Bjone, SJ. et al. Grass eating patterns in the domestic dog, Canis familiaris. Recent advances in animal nutrition in Australia. 2007 Volume 16. https://www.une.edu.au/staff-profiles/ers/wbrown/files/bjone-brown-price-grass-eating20patterns-raan-2007.pdf
- https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health-and-dog-care/health/health-and-care/a-z-of-health-and-care-issues/why-does-my-dog-eat-grass/
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/why-do-dogs-eat-grass
- McKenzie, SJ. et al. Reduction in grass eating behaviours in the domestic dog, Canis familiaris, in response to a mild gastrointestinal disturbance, Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2010 Volume 123, Issues 1–2, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2009.12.003
