Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Pet owners shouldn’t be alarmed if their dogs occasionally snack on grass.
The question has been posed at least once by many pet owners who have seen their dogs playing in a yard or other area where grass grows freely. Dog owners should not be alarmed if they discover their canine munching on grass; this is a perfectly normal behaviour for canines.
A dog’s inclination to eat grass is the primary motivation for doing so. Just like a dog who runs around devouring grass like crazy. However, it’s also possible that the dog is allergic to grass, which would explain the symptoms. If this appears to be the case, it’s time to make a trip to the vet. If you’re wondering, “should I let my dog eat grass?” the answer is yes; a dog’s natural curiosity often leads it to try new things, even grass.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Grass?
Your dog won’t get sick from eating grass, and he probably won’t throw up. Given this, you should never stop your dog from eating grass.
But why do they do it?
Wild canids, the ancestors and cousins of domesticated dogs, are able to meet their nutritional needs by wolfing down a wide variety of foods. Both modern dogs and their ancient forebears were scavengers and quick to seize an opportunity when it presented itself. This is why canines are attracted to trash cans and other places where they know they can get food without having to work for it. The Animal Kingdom is full of scavengers, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Dogs’ grass-eating propensity can be easily explained by the fact that the grass tastes good to them. It’s important to keep in mind that canines do not share our sense of what constitutes a nice treat. They munch on socks and other items that you might not consider edible. Dogs have a very distinct sense of smell and taste than humans have. Dogs also have a far superior sense of smell and taste to our own, which is to say that our own senses are grossly inadequate in comparison.
There is a third, largely theoretical reason that has been proposed. According to this hypothesis, whenever a wild animal or its ancestor senses that something is amiss, it will immediately begin searching for natural remedies. This tendency is observed in wild canids who consume a wide variety of grasses and even herbs.
From a veterinary point of view, what can grass possibly contribute to a domestic dog’s health?
Grass blades may ‘tickle’ the dog’s stomach and throat, causing it to throw up. When considering the dog’s wellbeing, this perspective can be quite helpful. There may be a preexisting disease, like gastric haemorrhage or an irritated stomach lining, that the dog is trying to treat by chewing grass. There may be something wrong with your dog if you notice he or she is always munching on the grass. Make sure there is nothing wrong with your dog by taking it to the vet for an examination.
Should You Let Your Dog Eat Grass?
In most cases, it’s best to let your dog be a dog. Unless a dog comes into touch with potentially dangerous items, such as nightshade plants or outright household poisons, engaging in normal dog habits is unlikely to cause harm. However, munching grass is a harmless habit that won’t put your dog in any danger.
But suppose your dog suddenly became obsessed with chewing on grass and devouring it whole. Is it something you ought to attempt to break? You need to look at the big picture before you chastise your poor puppy. In what state of health is your dog currently? Can you tell if your dog’s grass-eating habits are causing it any harm? You might expect questions from your vet concerning your dog’s health and lifestyle prior to the onset of the grass-eating activity.
To the same extent that new influences can affect people’s emotional and physical health, so can a dog’s.
Extreme cases of grass consumption are uncommon but can cause mild to severe diarrhoea and loss of weight. For some, throwing up after eating grass is the first sign of these symptoms.
Why Is My Dog Eating Grass All of a Sudden?
Pica is the scientific word for this kind of behaviour. While pica is not harmful in most cases, some veterinarians believe that some animals may partake in the practise when they are malnourished.
The insistence on repeating the action is compulsive and may be a symptom of a mental health problem. Your veterinarian will be the only one capable of identifying the precise condition afflicting your dog. Physical examination and tests, like blood chemistry and urine analysis, are usually necessary to rule out physiological abnormalities.
How common is this habit among canines? Researchers found that as many as 79 percent of canines tested positive for pica, specifically grass-eating activity. At this stage, there is inconsistency in the data. It has not been proven that dogs who indulge in pica are unwell or culturally inadequate. Some dogs, however, suffer from nutritional deficiencies and are therefore compelled to eat things that are not intended for canine consumption.
Experts advise pet owners to pay close attention only when they catch their dogs munching grass. Your dog’s occasional behaviour may not be cause for concern if he appears otherwise healthy and energetic. Concerns arise, though, if the conduct suddenly escalates for no apparent reason and becomes habitual. Pica is still a symptom that needs to be investigated to find out what’s causing it.
Conclusion
Dogs with a history of pica or grass-eating may be suffering from a more serious condition. Eating grass on an occasional basis is not a major health risk. Consult your vet about your dog’s symptoms to find out the underlying cause of his behaviour.