If your dog is eating grass and coughing, it might seem like quirky behavior—but it can actually indicate a wide range of health concerns.
While occasional grass munching might be considered harmless, when it’s paired with coughing, it may signal something more serious.
We outline the common reasons behind a dog eating grass and coughing, the potential risks involved, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Eating Grass and Coughing: What Does It Mean?
When a dog is eating grass and coughing, it often indicates that the grass is irritating their throat or digestive tract. Grass blades can be sharp and fibrous, sometimes causing mild physical irritation or even getting stuck in the throat, which triggers coughing. Also, dogs may eat grass to soothe an upset stomach, and the coughing could result from gagging or vomiting that follows.
Environmental factors like pollen or pesticides on the grass can also cause allergic reactions or respiratory irritation, leading to coughing. In some cases, coughing alongside grass eating might signal an underlying respiratory infection or other health issuesn.
1. Irritation or Obstruction in the Throat
One of the most immediate reasons a dog starts coughing after eating grass is physical irritation.
Grass blades can be sharp and fibrous, and if swallowed without proper chewing, they may become lodged in the throat or upper airway.
This can cause:
Persistent coughing
Gagging or retching
Pawing at the mouth
Swallowing repeatedly
In some cases, if a long blade of grass gets stuck, it may even cause choking or a partial obstruction, which requires immediate veterinary attention.
Related: Dog eating grass and poop (Here’s why)
2. Gastrointestinal Upset and Self-Medication
Many veterinarians and pet behaviorists believe that a dog eating grass is a form of self-medication.
Dogs sometimes consume grass to induce vomiting when they feel nauseated or have an upset stomach.
This behavior may be linked with:
Mild indigestion
Acid reflux
Bloating
Parasites
The coughing may occur as the dog tries to vomit or as a response to regurgitating stomach contents.
If your dog is eating grass and coughing up foam or bile, this may indicate a deeper gastrointestinal issue.
3. Allergies or Environmental Irritants
Dogs can also cough after eating grass due to seasonal or environmental allergies.
Grass often carries pollen, mold, pesticides, and other potential allergens or toxins.
When a dog ingests or even sniffs these substances, it may trigger:
Throat inflammation
Postnasal drip
Respiratory irritation
Coughing or sneezing
Dogs with grass allergies may also show symptoms like red eyes, itchy skin, or runny nose.
If you suspect your dog is reacting to something in the grass, consider avoiding treated lawns or high-pollen environments.
Related: My dog is eating grass excessively (Here’s why)
4. Kennel Cough or Other Respiratory Infections
If your dog is coughing frequently and happens to be eating grass at the same time, it may be coincidental—but it could also be a sign of a respiratory illness like kennel cough (canine infectious tracheobronchitis).
Kennel cough spreads in places like:
Boarding kennels
Dog parks
Grooming salons
Shelters
Key signs of kennel cough include:
Dry, hacking cough
Coughing fits that worsen after activity
Gagging as if something is stuck in the throat
Mild fever or lethargy
Eating grass might irritate an already sensitive throat and intensify coughing episodes.
5. Heart or Lung Conditions
Dogs with underlying cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions may exhibit both coughing and pica (a compulsion to eat non-food items like grass).
Conditions like:
Heartworm disease
Bronchitis
Tracheal collapse
Congestive heart failure
…can cause a chronic cough. If your dog eats grass regularly and also experiences labored breathing, wheezing, or fatigue, it’s time to see a vet immediately.
Grass eating may have nothing to do with the heart condition directly, but coughing after grass ingestion could exacerbate existing symptoms.
Related: Dog eating grass and not eating (Here’s why)
6. Nutritional Deficiency or Boredom
Another reason a dog eats grass—and possibly coughs afterward—is due to nutritional gaps in their diet.
Some experts believe dogs crave grass when they lack fiber or certain minerals.
However, if your dog is eating large amounts of grass quickly, they may be swallowing too much air or fibrous material, which could lead to gagging or coughing.
Additionally, boredom or anxiety can lead to excessive grass eating, particularly in dogs left alone or unstimulated for long periods.
The resulting cough could be from too much ingestion too quickly.
7. Parasites and Internal Infections
Intestinal parasites like roundworms or hookworms can cause nausea, prompting dogs to eat grass in an attempt to feel better.
Meanwhile, some parasites can migrate to the lungs (like lungworms), leading to coughing.
If your dog is both eating grass and coughing, especially with weight loss, diarrhea, or lethargy, a parasitic infection could be the root cause.
A fecal test and thorough exam can identify and treat these issues effectively.
What to Do if Your Dog Is Eating Grass and Coughing
While occasional grass eating is often harmless, the combination of grass consumption and coughing should prompt closer observation.
Here’s when to seek veterinary help:
1. Persistent or Harsh Cough
If your dog is coughing continuously, especially after eating grass, it could point to obstruction, infection, or a chronic illness.
2. Vomiting or Gagging Frequently
Repeated attempts to vomit without success can be dangerous.
It may indicate something stuck in the throat or stomach that needs removal.
3. Behavioral Changes
Watch for changes like lethargy, lack of appetite, or signs of distress.
These could signal a systemic problem beyond just a grass-related issue.
4. Blood in Mucus or Stool
If your dog is coughing up blood or has bloody stool after eating grass, see a vet immediately—this could indicate poisoning or internal injury.
5. Signs of Toxic Exposure
If you suspect your dog has eaten grass treated with pesticides or herbicides, contact your vet or a poison control hotline right away.
How to Prevent Grass Eating and Related Coughing
To minimize the risk of your dog eating grass and coughing afterward, consider these preventive steps:
Keep lawns chemical-free: Avoid pesticide-treated areas during walks.
Provide enrichment: Puzzle toys, interactive play, and daily walks can reduce boredom-related grazing.
Improve diet quality: Ensure your dog is getting a balanced diet with sufficient fiber and essential nutrients.
Use a leash during outdoor time: Controlling where your dog sniffs and grazes can prevent them from accessing dangerous plants or contaminated areas.
Regular vet checkups: Routine exams help catch early signs of illness that may lead to coughing or abnormal eating behavior.
Key Takeaway: Dog Eating Grass and Coughing
A dog eating grass and coughing isn’t always something to panic about—but it isn’t something to ignore, either.
While grass eating can be normal, coughing afterward is often a sign of irritation, infection, or even an underlying health condition.
If your dog shows repeated or sudden symptoms, consult with a veterinarian to rule out serious issues such as respiratory infections, parasites, or poisoning.
By monitoring your dog’s behavior and maintaining a safe, stimulating environment, you can help prevent potentially dangerous habits and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.