Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

Even if dogs are often considered carnivores, they really need the fiber from grass and other plant sources in order to promote a healthy digestive system. Eating grass can actually help get rid of an irritant in the dog’s upper digestive tract, such as in the esophagus or stomach. The fiber also helps improve the process of digestion, eliminate intestinal worms, and correct some nutritional imbalance.

“Grazing” in dogs is an instinct to self-medicate, a trait that domestic dogs have inherited from their ancestors that lived and survived the harsh conditions of the wild. For some dogs, eating grass is associated with pica, a behavior characterized by eating non-food items. Dogs that suffer specific nutritional imbalances may also turn to eating grass in an effort to meet their needs and correct the deficiency. 

Your vet Norfolk, VA is a valuable source of information about your pet’s health and/or behavior.