It’s a common scene: your dog is outside, sniffing around, and suddenly starts eating grass like it’s part of their daily meal. While it might seem strange—or even alarming—you’re not alone in wondering whether eating grass make dogs sick.
We outline why dogs eat grass, whether it can make them sick, and when it’s time to consult your vet.
Table of Contents
Does eating grass make dogs sick?
Generally, eating grass does not make dogs sick. Many dogs chew on grass occasionally without any harmful effects, and it’s often a normal behavior linked to instincts, dietary needs, or mild stomach upset. In some cases, dogs eat grass to help induce vomiting if they feel nauseous.
However, eating grass can become problematic if the grass is treated with pesticides, herbicides, or other chemicals, which can cause illness.
Why do dogs eat grass?
Before discussing whether eating grass makes dogs sick, let’s understand why dogs eat grass in the first place.
There are several theories about this behavior:
Instinctual behavior: Dogs’ wild ancestors likely ate plants and grass as part of their diet or to aid digestion.
Nutritional needs: Some experts believe dogs eat grass to supplement fiber or certain nutrients missing in their diet.
Upset stomach relief: Many dogs seem to eat grass when they feel nauseous or have mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Boredom or anxiety: Sometimes dogs chew grass simply out of boredom, stress, or curiosity.
Taste and texture: Dogs might just enjoy the taste or texture of grass.
Understanding these reasons is key because the impact on your dog’s health depends on the context of their grass-eating.
Related: Dog eating grass and dirt (Here’s why)
Does eating grass make dogs sick? The potential risks
Generally, occasional grass-eating does not make dogs sick. In fact, many dogs eat grass and show no negative symptoms at all.
However, there are scenarios where eating grass can lead to problems, which is why dog owners need to watch out for signs of illness or discomfort.
1. Grass may cause vomiting
One of the most common reasons dogs eat grass is to induce vomiting.
If your dog is feeling nauseous or has eaten something that upsets their stomach, they might instinctively eat grass to help trigger vomiting and relieve discomfort.
Is vomiting normal after eating grass? Yes, mild vomiting after eating grass happens often and is usually harmless.
When to worry: If your dog vomits frequently after eating grass, or if vomiting is accompanied by lethargy, diarrhea, or refusal to eat, this could indicate a more serious health problem requiring veterinary attention.
2. Pesticides, herbicides, and toxins on grass
One of the most significant risks of dogs eating grass is the potential ingestion of harmful chemicals.
Grass treated with pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or other toxins can make dogs sick, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or lethargy.
How to prevent: Always ensure your dog only eats grass in untreated, pesticide-free areas. Avoid letting your dog graze on lawns recently sprayed with chemicals.
3. Intestinal irritation or obstruction
Eating large amounts of grass or swallowing long, sharp blades can sometimes irritate a dog’s digestive tract or even cause a mild obstruction.
Signs of obstruction: Persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, or lethargy.
Action: If you suspect your dog has ingested a large amount of grass causing discomfort, consult your vet promptly.
4. Possible link to dietary deficiencies
Sometimes dogs eat grass because their diet lacks adequate fiber or certain nutrients.
While this doesn’t directly mean eating grass makes dogs sick, it could indicate an underlying dietary issue that, if untreated, may cause digestive problems or other health concerns.
Consult your vet to review your dog’s diet if grass-eating becomes frequent or obsessive.
Related: Dog eating grass and poop (Here’s why)
How often is too often? When to worry about grass-eating
Most dogs eat grass occasionally without any problems.
However, excessive or compulsive grass-eating may be a sign that your dog is unwell or stressed.
Signs that grass-eating could be harmful include:
Vomiting frequently after eating grass.
Diarrhea or loose stools following grass consumption.
Decreased appetite or lethargy.
Signs of abdominal discomfort or pain.
Excessive drooling or nausea.
Changes in behavior such as anxiety or restlessness.
Consuming large quantities of grass or non-grass plants.
If your dog shows any of these signs, it’s time to speak with a veterinarian.
What to do if your dog eats grass
If your dog is eating grass occasionally and shows no signs of illness, there’s generally no need for concern. Here’s what you should do:
1. Monitor your dog closely
Watch your dog’s behavior after grass-eating. Is your dog vomiting? Are there signs of diarrhea or discomfort?
Occasional mild vomiting may be normal, but frequent or severe symptoms need veterinary evaluation.
2. Check the grass source
Make sure your dog has access to clean, untreated grass. Avoid areas sprayed with chemicals or where other animals may have left waste.
3. Evaluate your dog’s diet
Since dogs may eat grass to supplement fiber or due to dietary deficiencies, ensure your dog’s diet is balanced, high-quality, and appropriate for their age, size, and health status.
4. Reduce boredom and anxiety
If your dog eats grass out of boredom or stress, provide more exercise, mental stimulation, and attention.
Consider training, toys, or calming techniques to reduce anxiety.
5. Consult your vet if needed
If your dog’s grass-eating becomes compulsive, or if they develop symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, seek veterinary advice promptly.
When to seek veterinary help for grass-eating dogs
Although eating grass is mostly harmless, certain symptoms alongside this behavior indicate that your dog may be sick and requires professional help.
Seek veterinary care if your dog:
Vomits persistently or violently after eating grass.
Has diarrhea or bloody stools.
Shows signs of dehydration such as excessive thirst, dry gums, or sunken eyes.
Is lethargic or weak.
Exhibits pain, bloating, or abdominal distress.
Stops eating or drinking normally.
Has ingested potentially toxic plants or chemicals.
Displays behavioral changes like excessive drooling or restlessness.
Your vet will perform a thorough exam, possibly run tests, and recommend treatment based on the underlying cause.
Key takeaway
In summary, does eating grass make dogs sick? Not usually. Eating grass is a common behavior that many dogs exhibit without adverse effects.
Often, dogs eat grass out of instinct, boredom, or mild stomach upset, and occasional vomiting afterward is normal.
However, grass-eating can become problematic if:
The grass is treated with harmful chemicals.
Your dog vomits frequently or shows signs of illness.
Your dog eats excessive amounts leading to digestive irritation.
The behavior indicates underlying health or dietary issues.
As a responsible dog owner, always monitor your dog’s grass-eating habits, ensure they have a nutritious diet, provide ample mental and physical exercise, and avoid letting them consume grass treated with pesticides or other toxins.
If you notice worrying symptoms like persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy in your dog alongside grass-eating, seek veterinary care promptly to protect your dog’s health.