Last week we talked about the reasons why cats eat grass, but many dog owners have probably noticed that their dog is drawn to eating grass as well. Just like cats, dogs are carnivores, however, there is one main difference between the two. Dogs are facultative carnivores (compared to obligate carnivores), which means they can thrive on plants since they have enzymes to break down plant material. They will then behave more like omnivores, like people, when meat is not readily available. However, given that most dog food is primarily meat based and the grass is actually considered non-edible for dogs, why would dogs then have a strong desire to eat grass? When dogs go for grass, it is considered to be a form of pica. “Pica is the technical term for the [eating] disorder characterized by eating things that aren’t food. Sometimes pica indicates that your dog has some type of nutritional deficiency, though it is often simply a sign of boredom” (Amy Flowers, Why Do Dogs Eat Grass, Pet MD).

            The most common thought is that dogs eat grass to stimulate vomiting or diarrhea when they are feeling unwell since they sometimes gag, vomit, or it passes straight through in their stool. However, even if this happens, dogs will continue to eat grass and most dogs don’t act or seem sick prior to eating grass. In addition, “less than 25% of dogs that eat grass vomit regularly after grazing” (Amy Flowers, Why Do Dogs Eat Grass, Pet MD). Because of this, it is unlikely this is the main reason. The most common theory is then that dogs just like the taste and texture and they are either bored or they may be missing something in their diet.

           As dog owners all know, dogs frequently like to chew on items or toys when they want something to do, but if your dog is lacking on items it can chew on, they may turn to grass to fulfill that desire. Plenty of activity, chew toys, and other enrichment should reduce the desire for consuming grass.

            Another reason may be that dogs are lacking fiber in their diet. Since dogs can’t break down grass, it is considered fibrous material and it will help them clear their digestive systems. Dogs will instinctively consume grass or other plant materials to fulfill that fiber requirement, but dogs may also be lacking in other nutrients that they’re trying to compensate with by eating grass.

           In the end, dogs eating grass is considered normal and safe behaviour. As long as it has not been chemically treated, the dog is not continuing to vomit and have diarrhea, or is not being consumed in excessive quantities, dogs eating grass should be no cause for concern.