Your dog is a descendent of the mighty wolf, a noble hunter and confirmed carnivore. You feed them meals of the best possible quality, so why do they insist on eating grass?
While no-one is entirely sure why dogs eat grass, pet intuitionists are fairly certain it's just normal canine behaviour and certainly nothing to worry about.
Grazing
There are two main types of canine grass eating. The first is simple grazing where your dog happily munches on grass and suffers no ill effects.
Some vets suggest dogs eat grass to make up for a nutritional deficiency but even dogs that eat well balanced diets will eat grass. It's possible that they simply like the taste. It's like a salad to them. So even if you're feeding your dog well, they might still fancy some greens!
Instinctive behaviour
The other type of grass eating is when a dog eats some grass and throws it up. This is thought to be a deliberate instinctive attempt to induce vomiting after they've swallowed something that makes them feel ill.
Tasty Tips
Dogs that eat to make themselves vomit usually swallow grass as quickly as possible, barely even chewing it. It is believed that the long, unchewed pieces of grass tickle their throats to bring on the vomiting reaction.
If your dog eats grass then vomits and seems fine, they’re probably taken care of whatever was bothering them. If they keep retching and is unable to throw up or keeps eating grass and carries on vomiting, you should take them to see the vet.
Safe to eat?
With all grass-eating behaviour, keep a careful eye on the sort of grass your dog is consuming. Don't let them eat anything that has been treated with pesticides or fertilisers. Most lawn-care products will indicate whether or not they're safe for pets.
Related products
Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Small & Mini Breed Adult Dog Food with Lamb & Rice is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
Tailored nutrition for the unique needs of small dogs during the prime of their life.
Small & Mini Mature Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Small & Mini Breed Mature Adult Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
Tailored nutrition to support graceful ageing in small dogs. Specially made with a synergistic blend of nutrients for energy & vigor.
Small & Mini Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Small & Mini Breed Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
100% balanced nutrition to support optimal growth & the immune system.
Light Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Light Adult Small & Mini Breed Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
Helps keep your dog fit and active with our low calorie, great-tasting food.
Precise nutrition for less active adult small dogs that require a low calorie food to help maintain a healthy weight & lifestyle.
Related articles
How to Treat Your Dog’s Dry Skin: Dry Puppy Skin Signs, Causes, and Treatments
Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatments of dry puppy skin and how to provide relief for your dog. For expert skin care advice, visit Hill's Pet MT.
Overweight Dogs: A Recent Epidemic
Learn more about the problem of dog obesity and more importantly, what you can do to help your dog avoid becoming overweight.
Is Chocolate Bad for My Dog? (& What to Do If They Eat It)
Learn the the dangers of feeding your dog chocolate, which types are most dangerous, and what to do if you discover that they have consumed chocolate.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Learn what you can feed your pregnant or nursing dog to keep her and her new pups healthy.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.