Help! Why Is My Dog Snacking on Grass?
It’s a common sight — your dog suddenly lowers their head mid-walk and starts nibbling on grass. Should you worry? Let’s dig into what’s really going on when your furry friend decides to graze like a little cow.
Ancestral Instincts
Our dogs may live in warm homes and enjoy carefully balanced diets, but their instincts still run deep. Wild canines often consumed plant matter along with their prey, and that urge to nibble on greenery still lingers today. When your dog munches grass, they may simply be following a natural, inherited habit.
Settling the Stomach
Some dogs eat grass and then vomit, leading many owners to assume it’s a way of soothing an upset tummy. While this can happen, the reality is that most dogs don’t get sick after grazing. If your pup seems healthy and energetic, occasional grass-eating is rarely a concern. Frequent vomiting, however, is a clear signal to book a vet check.
WAGGSTERS Tip: Be cautious of where your dog grazes — avoid treated lawns, roadside verges, or any areas you can’t confirm are safe.
Boredom or Curiosity
Dogs are curious, intelligent creatures. Without enough stimulation, they’ll often invent their own activities — and grass-snacking can become one of them. Much like humans fiddling with a pen or tapping their foot, dogs can form little habits when under-stimulated. Interactive toys, sniff-based games, and varied walks are great ways to keep your pup busy and engaged.
A Fibre Boost
Grass is full of fibre, and some dogs might instinctively seek it out to help with digestion. While today’s dog foods are designed to provide everything they need, your pup may still occasionally crave some roughage. If you’re unsure whether their diet is balanced, your vet can help you decide if dietary tweaks are needed.
Simple Enjoyment
Sometimes the answer is simple: your dog just likes it! Whether it’s the crunch, the texture, or the novelty, grass might just be a tasty snack in their eyes. As long as it’s not excessive and doesn’t make them ill, it’s usually harmless.
Safety First
Grass itself isn’t dangerous, but what’s on it can be. Fertilisers, pesticides, and pollution can turn a harmless habit into a risky one. Keeping an eye on where your dog is grazing is the best way to protect them.
Quick Reminders:
When to See the Vet
Occasional grass nibbling is normal. But if it becomes excessive, is paired with regular vomiting, or your dog shows changes in appetite, stool, or energy levels, it’s time to get professional advice. Trust your instincts — you know your dog best.
Final Thoughts
Dogs eat grass for lots of reasons — instinct, curiosity, boredom, a digestive boost, or simply because they enjoy it. Most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about. With a healthy diet, fun activities, and safe walks, you can keep your pup thriving and too busy to raid the lawn.
At WAGGSTERS, we create premium gear that makes every walk safer, easier, and more enjoyable — from supportive harnesses to tough toys. Because when your dog is happy, healthy, and engaged, grass stays where it belongs: under their paws, not in their tummy.
