Why Dogs Eat Grass and How to Handle It Why Dogs Eat Grass and the Best Way to Handle It

You may have seen your dog chow down on grass many times without really understanding why she does it. There are many theories about why dogs eat grass despite the fact that they are widely considered to be carnivorous animals. Here are a few of the most common ones:

• One theory that attempts to explain why dogs eat grass is that they are actually not carnivores. Instead they are omnivores, meaning they will eat anything, including your lawn.
• Some believe that dogs eat grass to supplement their diet with nutrients that are missing from their daily meals. But this doesn't really apply to your pooch unless you are buying him store brand food that may lack the necessary nutrient she requires.
• Another theory is that dogs lack the phalangeal structure necessary to vomit when they are nauseous, so they chew grass to help with this problem instead. Grass sometimes makes them vomit due to the irritation of their stomach lining caused by the tickly stems.

Regardless of the reason dogs eat grass, many dog owners share the concern that chewing grass is an unhealthy habit. You can rest assured that this behavior will not harm her, even when it makes her vomit. And chances are the habit will go away once she grows tired of it.

But if your dog's grass eating behavior is really bothering you, there are a few ways to reduce it.

• Try changing her diet slightly. Dogs do not need a widely varied diet to keep them interested in their food. However, since one of the theories explaining dogs grass eating is centered around a lack of nutritional variety, try introducing veggies to her food. Many dogs enjoy tomatoes, carrots and chopped apples. But be sure to stay away from grapes, raisins, and onions since these are toxic to dogs.
• Supervise your dog when she is around grass, especially on off-lead walks. You'll have to keep an eagle eye on her to make sure she does not make a mad dash for the grass.