Ever caught your dog chomping on grass like it’s a gourmet salad and thought to yourself, 'Why does my dog love eating grass?'  It might seem odd, but this habit is surprisingly common. While some dogs eat grass out of boredom, others might be trying to satisfy a nutritional need or soothe an upset stomach. But what’s really behind this grassy obsession?

Why Dogs Eat Grass

While it's not always clear why dogs eat grass, there are a few common reasons for this behavior:

1. They need more fiber. Just like us, dogs need fiber to keep their digestive system working smoothly. If they’re not getting enough fiber in their diet, they might turn to grass as a natural way to help with digestion.
   
   

2. They enjoy the taste. Some dogs just love the taste of grass! Since dogs are omnivores, they’re naturally drawn to a wide variety of foods, from fruits to veggies and greens. If your dog seems to have a particular love for grass, it might simply be a preference!
   
   

3. They’re bored. Dogs can get bored too! If they’re not mentally or physically stimulated enough, grass-eating may become a time-passing activity.
   
   

4. They have an upset stomach. If your dog is feeling a little off, they might eat grass to soothe their stomach. This is fairly common, but if your dog is eating grass and throwing up frequently, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet to make sure everything’s okay.
   
   

5. They might have a nutrient deficiency.  Grass-eating could signal your dog isn't getting enough essential nutrients in their diet. If you’re concerned, consider talking to your vet about a dietary change or supplementing with nutrient-rich treats.

Is It Safe for My Dog to Eat Grass?

For most dogs, eating grass isn’t something to stress about. However, if your dog is eating grass from lawns treated with pesticides or chemicals, that can be harmful, even toxic. Similarly, if the grass has been contaminated with animal feces, there’s a risk of bacteria or parasites that could make your pup sick.

How to Keep Your Dog From Eating Grass

If you're wondering how to keep your dog from eating grass, here are a few things you can try:

• Incorporate superfoods. Satisfy your dog’s cravings with nutrient-dense treats like Veggie Dailies. These crunchy, plant-based treats are loaded with kale, carrots, and spirulina — a blue-green algae known for being one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Spirulina is a natural probiotic that supports gut health, making it the perfect addition to your dog’s daily routine and a great way to keep them from munching on grass.

• Offer them more fiber-rich foods. Dog-friendly foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin are naturally packed with fiber. They’re a safer alternative to grass and help promote digestion.

• Focus on gut health. A healthy gut can reduce the urge to eat grass. Probiotic and prebiotic-rich foods or treats can maintain a balanced gut and support digestive wellness. 

• Keep your dog engaged. Boredom often leads to grass-eating. Ensure your dog gets enough mental and physical stimulation through playtime, walks, and interactive toys. A tired dog is less likely to snack on grass.

• Redirect behavior through training. If you catch your dog in the act, redirect their attention with toys or treats. Reward them when they focus elsewhere. Positive reinforcement can help break the grass-eating habit, helping to keep your dog from eating grass in the future.
  
  

While grass-eating is a common behavior among dogs, understanding the reasons behind it can help you manage the habit more effectively. Whether it’s a need for fiber, a taste preference, or simply boredom, offering healthier alternatives, keeping your dog engaged, and redirecting their behavior through training can help curb the grass-chomping urge.

Looking for a simple way to boost your dog’s diet with nutrient-rich foods? Chippin treats are packed with fiber and prebiotics to support healthy digestion. Plus, their Veggie Dailies made with oats and spirulina have been shown to help curb grass-eating. Available on Amazon and Chewy.

Here’s what customers are saying: