There is no single reason that explains why dogs eat grass, in fact, the most recent studies suggest multiple causes. Likewise, they also dispel some of the most common myths, such as that dogs occasionally consume grass to make themselves vomit.
In this article on our site we will delve into why dogs eat grass, with arguments based on scientific studiesWe will also explain if it is good for a dog to eat grass or what to do if a dog eats grass with herbicide. Solve all your doubts below!
Why do dogs eat grass?
The consumption of grass and plants is a common practice in domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Unlike cats, which are exclusively carnivorous, dogs are able to take advantage of certain nutrients from the fruits and vegetables recommended for dogs.
We should know that consumption of vegetables is also frequent in wild canids. This is evidenced by observing the composition of their feces, which contain between 11 and 47% plant remains. They ingest semi-digested food from the stomach of their prey, mostly herbivorous animals. All this added to domestication, has favored the dog being capable of assimilating better and better this type of food. However, since it is raw, dogs cannot fully digest grass.
So why do dogs eat grass? Some hypotheses relate this behavior to canine physiology itself, which is satisfied with some of the nutrients present in forage, grass or fiber.
The most recent studies we have consulted show that this behavior is directly related to satiety, that is, the dog generally eats grass when he is hungryIn contrast, when you have a full stomach, you eat grass less often. Thus, the first reason suggests that dogs may see grass as a food source.
But in addition, grass is very useful for purging of intestinal parasites in wild canids. The fibrous matter, present in grass and plants, increases intestinal contractions, also enveloping worms that may be infecting the animal.
Dogs may be attracted to the taste of grass or certain herbs, as well as thehabit of chewing it and eating it. On the other hand, some dogs can also develop obsessive and stereotyped behavior related to chewing grass, although this is very rare.
To finish, and as a curiosity, we can point out that dogs that have direct access to grass usually spend a minimum of three minutes a day eating it and that young dogs are the ones that do so more frequently.
False myths
Although we have discussed that dogs may seek certain nutrients in fruits and vegetables, it is not true that it is related to nutritional deficiencies The dogs studied, whether or not they had a diet supplemented with fruits and vegetables, consumed practically the same amount of grass.
On the other hand, other false myths suggest that the dog eats grass to vomit, however, only 8% of animals studied vomited. It is also not true that sick dogs or dogs with stomach pain perform it, since all the dogs that were presented for the study were he althy and free of parasites.
My dog eats grass, is it bad?
Now that you know why dogs eat grass, you are probably wondering if it is good for a dog to eat grass on a regular basis and if it can cause he alth problems. As we have told you, a dog eating pasta is a totally normal and acceptable behavior In no case should it be considered a behavior problem that we must repress.
To prevent certain he alth problems that may appear after consuming grass in public spaces, such as the transmission of parasites or viral diseases, it may be interesting to place a inside the home. pot with grass, so that the dog can consume it freely and safely.
Likewise, we will carry out regular veterinary check-ups, follow the vaccination schedule for dogs and regular deworming to detect, prevent and treat any he alth problem.
But also, after reviewing a study carried out by Advance on intestinal parasites in dogs and the use of herbs in the diet, we observed that the natural treatmentcan offer numerous advantages. They are safe, do not leave hazardous residues, create less resistance, are sustainable and ecologically based.
Here are some of the benefits of herbs that have been studied:
- Garlic (Allium sativum) and cayenne pepper (Capsicum minimum): they have important antibacterial properties.
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): helps protect against mites.
- Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): it is very effective against intestinal parasites.
Other plants studied were cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), garden sweetheart (Galium aparine), peppermint (Mentha piperita), elm (Ulmus rubra), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), quassia hibiscus (Picrasma excelsa) and nettle (Urtica dioica).
Of course the use of these products must always be offered in specific and safe quantities, always prescribed by a veterinarian.
Also discover more about the use of garlic to deworm dogs and cats on our site.
What do I do if my dog eats grass with herbicide on it?
There are risk situations, for example when the dog eats grass that has been treated with pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers In these cases, grass consumption can be very harmful and even lethal. Some warning signs can be when the dog eats grass and vomits blood.
If we suspect a dog is poisoned by pesticide we must go to the vet urgently. The professional will assess the dog's he alth status and follow the procedure that he considers most appropriate to treat the clinical picture, which will depend directly on the substance. We will explain any symptoms that we have been able to observe, such as the dog eating grass and pooping blood, and we will try to offer you as much information as possible, such as what product was ingested.
Also, if you are very worried about the he alth of your best friend, we advise you to review our article on first aid in poisoned dogs to know what to do while you go to the veterinary hospital.
