If you’ve noticed your dog eating grass and drinking lots of water lately, you’re not alone.
Many dog owners observe this behavior and wonder whether it’s normal or a sign of an underlying health issue.
We outline why dogs eat grass and drink lots of water, the possible causes behind this behavior, and what you should do if your dog displays these symptoms.
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Here’s Why Dogs Eat Grass and Drink Lots of Water
If your dog is eating grass and drinking lots of water, it could be a sign that they are experiencing digestive discomfort or nausea. Dogs often eat grass instinctively to help soothe an upset stomach or to induce vomiting if they feel queasy. Drinking increased amounts of water is their body’s way of staying hydrated, especially if vomiting or mild dehydration is involved.
However, these behaviors can also indicate other issues like dietary changes, nutritional deficiencies, stress, or underlying medical conditions such as infections or kidney problems.
Common Causes of Dog Eating Grass and Throwing Up White Foam
Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Grass?
Yes, dogs eating grass is a very common behavior, and many veterinarians consider it normal.
Dogs might nibble on grass occasionally for several reasons including boredom, nutritional needs, or simply because they like the taste or texture.
However, if your dog is frequently eating grass and simultaneously drinking lots of water, it could be signaling a deeper problem like an upset stomach or digestive discomfort.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Here are some of the most common reasons your dog might be eating grass:
1. Digestive Upset
One of the top explanations for a dog eating grass is that they have an upset stomach.
Grass can help induce vomiting or soothe an irritated digestive tract.
Sometimes dogs instinctively eat grass to make themselves vomit if they feel nauseous or have ingested something that doesn’t agree with their stomach.
When a dog feels queasy, they may also drink lots of water to stay hydrated as vomiting or digestive upset can cause fluid loss.
2. Nutritional Deficiency
Dogs may eat grass to compensate for nutritional deficiencies, particularly fiber.
Fiber in grass can help regulate digestion and ease constipation.
If your dog’s diet is lacking in fiber or certain nutrients, they might instinctively seek out grass to help balance their system.
This could also make them drink more water because fiber requires adequate hydration to work properly in the digestive tract.
3. Boredom or Anxiety
Sometimes dog eating grass is just a behavior stemming from boredom or anxiety.
Dogs left alone for long periods or dogs without enough physical and mental stimulation may chew on grass as a way to pass time or self-soothe.
Drinking more water could also be linked to anxiety or stress, where dogs pant more and seek water to calm down.
4. Natural Behavior and Instinct
Wild ancestors of dogs were known to eat plants and grass as part of their diet. Even though domestic dogs have commercial dog food, this instinct sometimes persists. Eating grass might be a way for dogs to add variety to their diet or simply explore their environment.
Why Is My Dog Drinking Lots of Water?
Drinking lots of water in dogs, medically known as polydipsia, can be normal or a sign of health concerns. When paired with grass eating, it’s essential to understand the potential reasons behind this thirst.
1. Dehydration or Fluid Loss
If your dog has been vomiting or has diarrhea (common when dogs eat grass to soothe an upset stomach), they may become dehydrated.
This makes them drink more water to replace lost fluids.
Even if your dog isn’t vomiting yet, mild digestive irritation can make them feel thirsty.
2. Diet Changes or Dry Food Consumption
Switching from wet food to dry kibble or feeding a diet high in salt can increase your dog’s thirst.
Dry food has less moisture content, which means dogs need to drink more water to stay hydrated.
Similarly, salty treats or human foods given to dogs can lead to increased water consumption.
3. Medical Conditions
In some cases, excessive drinking of water combined with grass eating can be linked to medical conditions such as:
Gastrointestinal infections or irritation: Infections can cause nausea and discomfort leading dogs to eat grass and drink more water.
Kidney disease: Dogs with kidney issues often drink more water to flush toxins.
Diabetes mellitus: Increased thirst is a hallmark sign of diabetes.
Cushing’s disease: This hormonal disorder causes increased thirst and urination.
Medications: Some medications cause dry mouth or increase urine production, prompting your dog to drink more.
If your dog suddenly starts drinking a lot more water and eating grass frequently, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian for a thorough check-up.
What Does It Mean When a Dog Eats Grass and Drinks Lots of Water?
When these two behaviors occur together, it could indicate a few key things:
Your dog might be experiencing digestive discomfort or nausea and is eating grass to relieve this feeling, while drinking lots of water to stay hydrated.
There might be an underlying illness or infection that causes gastrointestinal upset and increased thirst.
Your dog could be experiencing stress or anxiety, manifesting as repetitive behaviors like eating grass and panting or drinking more water.
A sudden change in diet or environment could be causing your dog’s digestive system to react, leading to increased water intake and grass eating.
How to Help Your Dog If They Are Eating Grass and Drinking Lots of Water
Here’s what you can do if you notice your dog frequently eating grass and drinking a lot of water:
1. Observe Your Dog Closely
Monitor for additional symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in urination.
These symptoms alongside grass eating and increased thirst may indicate a more serious issue.
2. Check Your Dog’s Diet
Ensure your dog’s food is balanced, nutritious, and appropriate for their age, breed, and health status.
If you recently changed their food, try switching gradually to prevent stomach upset.
3. Provide Fresh Water and Avoid Salty Treats
Always make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water.
Avoid giving your dog salty snacks or human food that might increase thirst or upset their stomach.
4. Reduce Stress and Boredom
Increase your dog’s daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Sometimes grass eating and drinking lots of water stem from boredom or anxiety, so enriching their environment can help reduce these behaviors.
5. Consult Your Veterinarian
If the behavior persists for more than a few days, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or extreme lethargy, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Your vet may perform tests to rule out infections, organ problems, or other illnesses.
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
Certain signs indicate that your dog’s grass eating and excessive water drinking may be part of a serious condition requiring urgent care:
Severe vomiting or continuous retching
Bloody diarrhea or stools with mucus
Extreme lethargy or weakness
Signs of dehydration such as sunken eyes, dry gums, or sticky mouth
Unusual behavior such as staggering or seizures
Excessive urination along with increased thirst
If your dog shows any of these symptoms alongside eating grass and drinking lots of water, take them to a vet immediately.
Key Takeaway: Understanding Dog Eating Grass and Drinking Lots of Water
Dog eating grass and drinking lots of water can be normal behaviors but may also indicate digestive upset, nutritional deficiencies, stress, or underlying medical problems.
It’s important to observe your dog’s overall health, behavior changes, and appetite.
If these behaviors are occasional and your dog is otherwise healthy, they’re likely nothing to worry about.
However, if your dog frequently eats grass, drinks excessive amounts of water, or shows other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, consult your veterinarian promptly.
Early detection of health issues through careful observation and veterinary care can ensure your dog remains happy, healthy, and hydrated.