Frustrating right!? I mean, really, it only leads to one thing. PUKE!…. gross. But honestly, nobody has yet proven if it is the grass that leads to vomiting, or if an upset stomach leads to grass eating, which results in vomiting.
What comes first the chicken or the egg… the grass eating or the vomiting?
Well, we humans have no proof of why dogs eat grass, but we have lots of theories…
They like it:
Yup, especially the young, tender, green grass. It has a great texture, unlike their kibble, canned, homemade food or even treats. It is interesting and different.
They are bored:
Yup, just passing the time. No squirrels to chase, toys to run with, humans to interact with, so ya, may as well eat some grass. Some pups may have also learned that chomping on grass gets their peoples attention fast. Smart dogs!
They are trying to fill a need:
Grass provides some vitamins and minerals. It also contains fiber and chlorophyll, which theoretically could help with digestion.
They have an upset stomach:
Some experts believe that dogs ingest grass to induce vomiting. Marty Becker, DVM states “Ancient wild dogs felt nauseous, which triggered an instinct to eat grass, which irritated their stomach linings, which let to the grass and the offending dietary choice being heaved up.” So perhaps modern day dogs have inherited this instinct…. maybe.
All this to say, we don’t really know for sure why dogs eat grass. Maybe the better question is…
Should dogs eat grass?
The answer is NO. Unless you are totally confident that your pup is eating only pure grass it’s best to avoid it. Out on a walk you have no way of knowing if the tender tasty blades of grass have been treated with toxic chemicals. You also can’t be sure your pup won’t eat intestinal parasites. Hookworms can be left behind on the grass from other dog’s poop. Ugh!
So, how can you keep your dog from eating grass?
Distract your dog when he wants to stop for a snack along the sidewalk. Change direction and gently lead him away. Or, you could offer high-value treats as an alternative. When your dog is about to munch on the grass, instruct him to “leave-it” or “drop-it.” When he does, reward with a treat.
Keep your pup busy. If he is unable to entertain himself, don’t leave him alone in the yard. Provide chew toys and balls for him to distract himself and play with while outside.
Remember, it’s not the grass that will harm your dog, its the potential danger of ingesting lawn chemicals, pesticides and parasites that are the danger.
Good luck and happy walking!