Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? 2025 Vet Answers Common Pet Parenting Question 🐶✨

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Your dog’s had breakfast, lunch, and snacks—but there they go, munching grass like a tiny lawnmower. Is it normal? Is it bad? And should you stop them?

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Ask A Vet. Grass-eating is one of the most common dog behaviors I get asked about—and usually, it’s less concerning than people think. Let’s break it down.

🌿 Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Grass?

• Yes! About 70–80% of dogs occasionally eat grass
• It’s considered a normal canine behavior
• Most dogs show no signs of illness before or after eating it

🔍 Why Dogs Eat Grass – Top Theories

1. Instinct from Wild Ancestors

• Wild canines ingested plant matter from prey stomachs
• Some believe it’s a leftover scavenging or foraging instinct

2. Dietary Fiber Deficiency

• Some dogs may seek grass to add fiber to their diet
• This is more common in kibble-fed dogs with low fiber intake

3. Nausea or Digestive Upset

• A small percentage of dogs eat grass before vomiting
• It may be a self-soothing behavior to relieve nausea
• Vomiting isn’t guaranteed—most dogs don’t vomit after

4. Boredom or Habit

• Some dogs chew grass out of boredom, like chewing socks or sticks
• This is especially common in under-stimulated or anxious dogs

🤢 When Grass-Eating Is a Concern

• Vomiting more than once or persistently after grass consumption
• Diarrhea, drooling, or loss of appetite
• Obsessive or compulsive grass-eating behavior
• Possible ingestion of treated lawns, pesticides, or toxic plants

🛡️ How to Manage It Safely

• Ensure grass is free from fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides
• Supervise grass-eating and redirect if excessive
• Offer a high-fiber diet or enrichment feeding options
• Use safe chew toys or puzzle feeders to redirect behavior

🍃 Safe Alternatives

• Fresh or steamed green beans
• Plain lettuce, pumpkin, or carrots (in moderation)
  

🩺 When to See a Vet

• Your dog eats grass daily and vomits frequently
• Any change in appetite, energy, or stool consistency
• Signs of nausea: drooling, lip licking, gagging without vomiting

🔗 Ask A Vet

• Ask A Vet – Chat with a vet instantly if your dog is eating grass excessively or vomiting
• Dual Pocket Dispenser – Carry wipes and bags in case your dog does throw up after eating grass

📋 Summary Excerpt

Grass-eating is usually harmless, but not always. A vet explains the top reasons dogs eat grass, when it’s safe, and when to worry or take action.

❓ FAQs

• Q: Is it bad if my dog eats grass?
  A: Not usually. Occasional grass-eating is normal. But watch for vomiting or changes in behavior.
• Q: Why does my dog eat grass and then throw up?
  A: They may soothe nausea. But if this happens often, consult your vet.
• Q: Can grass be toxic to dogs?
  A: The grass itself usually isn’t, but treated lawns or nearby toxic plants can be dangerous.