This morning, I saw Nova out in the yard chewing on grass again. She looked so proud of herself, like she had found the best snack in the world. If your dog does the same thing, you might wonder, “Why do they do that? Is it bad for them?”
The truth is, dogs eat grass for lots of reasons. Most of the time it’s normal, but sometimes it can be a sign that something else is going on. Let’s look at what experts say, when you should worry, and how to keep your dog safe and healthy.
The American Kennel Club says that dogs eating grass is common and usually not a problem. Some dogs eat grass because they are curious or bored. Others might like the taste or texture.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, most healthy dogs eat grass once in a while and never get sick from it. It can even be a leftover habit from wild dogs, who used to eat plants as part of their meals.
PetMD explains that some dogs might eat grass when their food doesn’t have enough fiber. Fiber helps keep a dog’s tummy and digestion working well. You can picture fiber like a broom that gently sweeps through their stomach to help keep things moving.
Sometimes, grass eating can also be attention-seeking behavior. If your dog notices you react every time they chew grass, they might do it more often just to get you to look their way.
Eating a little grass here and there is fine, but if your dog does it a lot, or throws up right after, it’s time to watch more closely. Some dogs eat grass because they feel sick to their stomach.
If your dog eats grass and:
Throws up every time
Has diarrhea
Stops eating regular food
Acts tired or not like themselves
then it’s best to call your vet.
Another big thing to think about is what’s on the grass. The Pet Poison Helpline says that lawn sprays like weed killers, bug sprays, and fertilizers can make dogs sick. Even small amounts can cause problems if your pup eats treated grass or licks their paws after walking on it.
Old dog poop left in the yard can also be a danger. It can hold germs like E. coli or Salmonella, which can make pets and people sick. When a dog eats grass that has touched old waste, those germs can go straight into their mouth.
This is one big reason we always remind families to keep their yards clean and safe.
Myth: Dogs only eat grass when they’re sick.
Fact: Most dogs who eat grass are healthy. It’s just something they do.
Myth: Grass helps dogs make themselves throw up.
Fact: Some dogs might vomit after eating grass, but most don’t.
Myth: Eating grass is dangerous.
Fact: It’s usually safe as long as the grass is clean, free from poop, and hasn’t been sprayed with chemicals.
Experts like the AKC, VCA Animal Hospitals, and PetMD all agree: grass eating is a normal dog behavior most of the time. The key is making sure the grass itself is safe.
If your dog eats grass in a yard that hasn’t been cleaned, they could be eating bacteria and germs along with it. Over time, that can upset their stomach or even make them sick.
At Doggy Doods, we don’t just scoop poop. Our pet-safe enzymatic deodorizing service helps break down the bacteria that cause bad smells. Instead of using harsh chemicals, we use natural enzymes: tiny helpers that “eat” odor-causing bacteria safely.
These enzymes are safe for dogs, kids, and grass. They leave the yard smelling fresh while reducing bacteria that could stick to grass or paws. When dogs like Nova decide to snack on grass, it’s comforting to know it’s clean and safe.
Clean yards look good, smell better, and help protect your family’s health.
If your dog’s grass-eating habit worries you, here are some easy ways to help:
Dogs sometimes eat grass when they’re bored. Try adding more playtime, new toys, or short training sessions to keep their minds busy.
Ask your vet if your dog’s food has enough fiber. Safe foods like cooked carrots, pumpkin, or green beans can also add healthy fiber.
If you see your dog chewing grass, call them over and reward them for coming. This helps them learn that listening to you is more fun than eating grass.
Pick up poop often and use a pet-safe deodorizer. Fewer germs mean safer grass.
If your grass was sprayed with weed killers or fertilizer, keep your dog off it until it’s dry and safe again. You can also rinse their paws after walks to wash away any residue.
Sometimes grass eating is a sign that something else is wrong.
You should contact your vet if your dog:
Eats grass every day or in large amounts
Throws up every time afterward
Has diarrhea, bloating, or stomach pain
Stops eating their normal food
Acts tired, nervous, or not like themselves
The VCA Animal Hospitals page notes that these could be signs of an upset stomach, allergies, or even worms. Your vet can check to see if anything more serious is going on and help you fix it quickly.
When in doubt, it’s always better to ask.
In St. Charles County, grass stays wet longer in the cooler months. That dampness helps bacteria and parasites stick around longer on the ground. If your dog likes to eat grass after rain, dew, or frost, it’s a good idea to check your yard first.
Doggy Doods helps families in St. Charles, O’Fallon, St. Peters, and Cottleville keep their lawns clean, fresh, and safe all year long. That way, your pup can enjoy their outdoor time without risk, even if they sneak a little “yard salad.”
Let’s keep your dog’s grass snacks clean and safe. Click below to get a free quote today.
Does your dog eat grass too? Tell us what you’ve noticed in the comments below. Every dog is different, and we love hearing your stories.
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