Dogs are notorious for eating weird things, such as sticks, rocks, stones, and rubbish. And we all know the myth about dogs and grass – some of us have even seen this firsthand.

While out for a lovely walk with our furry friend, they suddenly pull away from us, and start chomping at the grass like there's no tomorrow.

It can be quite disconcerting to see, especially if you're not sure whether it's OK for dogs to eat grass or not. Is it a sign that something's wrong? Are they going to get sick? And more importantly, is it safe for your pup? In short: yes!

Grass-eating is actually quite a common habit for dog breeds; however, some anxious pet owners might be uncomfortable with the idea of their furry friend munching on someone else’s freshly mowed yard during walks.

Pet expert Dr Katrina Warren explains there are several reasons why your dog might choose to snack on grass from time to time – none of which you need to worry about too much. Her dog Chilli loves it!

Dr Katrina with her furbaby, Chili. Credit: drkatrina on Instagram

She said that ‘there’s usually nothing to worry about when it comes to our pets chomping on some green leaves.’

Dr Katrina added a reminder for pet owners: ‘The most important thing is to make sure it's chemical and pesticide free. Other than that, though, grass isn't usually harmful to your dog's health.’

Warren says the taste might also play a role in your pooch's decision to graze while out walking. While not every dog likes the taste of fresh grass, some of them seem to really enjoy it.

Another possibility is that they're using it as a good source of fibre, since fibre aids in digestion. It’s either that, or they could just be bored and looking for something to do.

‘It's thought that some do perhaps to fill the nutritional void or to add dietary fibre,’ Dr Katrina says,’ Dr Katrina says.

Dr Katrina says it’s totally OK for your dogs to eat grass. Credit: Chevanon Photography in Pexels

However, Dr Katrina warns that a sudden change in your dog’s eating habits could be a sign that your furbaby is experiencing health issues. ‘If it's a sudden behaviour change that you're seeing with your dog and they're suddenly eating a lot of grass, please see your vet,’ she said.

This statement is supported by Green Cross Vets AU, a site that provides a comprehensive array of professional veterinary services. They said that dogs eating grass all of a sudden could be a sign of a medical problem – one that requires immediate attention.

Key Takeaways

• Dogs eating grass is normal behaviour for all breeds of dogs.Dogs eating grass is normal behaviour for all breeds of dogs.
• The most important thing is to make sure the grass your dog is eating is chemical and pesticide free.
• Grass is usually not harmful to your dog's health unless they start craving grass without ever eating it before.
• If your dog's grass-eating is a sudden behavioural change, please see your vet.

There you go, dear members! Hopefully Dr Katrina’s explanation about why dogs eat grass will keep your worries away!

Please also keep in mind that this article is for informational purposes only and is not to be taken as any sort of medical advice. If you believe your dog is sick, please go to a professional for advice immediately.

 

[Ricci]

Only one of my two dogs eats grass, I reckon that it's because at only 9 inches high it's the best way through an un-mown lawn!!

 

[terri]

Only one of my two dogs eats grass, I reckon that it's because at only 9 inches high it's the best way through an un-mown lawn!!

What are it's hourly rates? I have lots of grass for the eating.