It’s not unusual to see your dog eating grass during a walk or in the backyard—but when that behavior is followed by gagging, it can quickly become a cause for concern.
While occasional grass-eating is considered normal canine behavior, gagging immediately afterward could indicate something more serious.
We outline what it means when a dog eats grass and starts gagging, the causes behind this behavior, and what you should do about it.
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Dog Eating Grass and Gagging: Here’s Why It Happens
When a dog is eating grass and gagging, it’s usually a sign of gastrointestinal discomfort or irritation. This behavior might be your dog’s way of trying to induce vomiting or relieve an upset stomach. Gagging often follows grass-eating when the grass tickles the throat or stomach lining, which can trigger the reflex to vomit.
What Does It Mean When Dogs Eat Grass?
Dogs eating grass is actually more common than most owners think. In fact, many dogs occasionally nibble on grass even if they’re not feeling sick.
But when eating grass and gagging occur together, it may not be just a casual snack.
Here are a few reasons dogs eat grass:
Instinctual behavior: Some dogs have a natural tendency to graze. This behavior is believed to be inherited from their wild ancestors who ingested plant matter from prey’s stomachs.
Upset stomach: Many pet owners notice their dog eating grass before vomiting. This might be an effort to induce vomiting to relieve nausea.
Nutritional deficiency: Dogs lacking fiber or certain nutrients may turn to grass as a supplement.
Boredom or anxiety: Dogs left alone or under-stimulated may chew on grass to cope with boredom or stress.
While grass-eating alone isn’t usually dangerous, eating grass and gagging frequently should raise concern.
Gagging in Dogs: What It Means
Gagging in dogs is the act of making a choking sound, similar to vomiting but without expelling anything. It can be caused by a range of issues, such as:
Throat irritation or inflammation
Ingested foreign objects
Respiratory problems
Gastrointestinal upset
Post-nasal drip from allergies
When a dog eats grass and gags, the grass may tickle the throat or get stuck, prompting the gag reflex.
But if gagging persists, it might point to a larger issue that should be evaluated.
Common Reasons for Dog Eating Grass and Gagging
1. Gastrointestinal Irritation or Upset Stomach
One of the most common causes of eating grass and gagging is gastrointestinal discomfort. Dogs may instinctively eat grass to provoke vomiting, especially if they are feeling nauseous.
Grass can irritate the stomach lining or cause the dog to gag before or after vomiting.
If your dog is also drooling, licking its lips excessively, or has diarrhea, it could be an upset stomach.
Dogs with GI issues may show these signs alongside grass-eating and gagging:
Burping or gurgling stomach noises
Diarrhea or loose stools
Vomiting foam or bile
Reduced appetite
2. Grass Blades Stuck in the Throat
Sometimes, the physical act of eating grass causes gagging because long blades of grass get stuck in the dog’s throat or between the teeth.
This is particularly common in dogs that don’t chew the grass thoroughly. Gagging, coughing, or repeated swallowing might indicate an irritation or partial blockage.
In such cases, the dog may:
Paw at the mouth
Gag repeatedly without vomiting
Appear distressed while eating or swallowing
3. Allergies or Post-Nasal Drip
Dogs with seasonal allergies or sensitivities may already have throat irritation. When they eat grass and gag, it could worsen due to added irritation.
Allergies can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, leading to drainage that triggers the gag reflex. Combined with grass consumption, the gagging may intensify.
Other signs of allergies include:
Sneezing
Red, itchy eyes
Coughing or wheezing
Excessive licking or chewing
4. Foreign Objects or Obstructions
Dogs that eat grass often gulp it down without chewing, increasing the risk of swallowing foreign materials like twigs, mulch, or even bugs.
These items can get lodged in the throat, causing gagging after eating grass.
A lodged object may lead to:
Continuous gagging or hacking
Difficulty swallowing
Drooling
Panic or discomfort
If your dog shows these symptoms, you should seek immediate veterinary attention.
Related: Dog eating grass frantically (Here’s why)
5. Nausea from Underlying Illness
Dogs suffering from liver disease, kidney issues, or infections may experience nausea. Nauseated dogs might eat grass and gag shortly after as a result.
Nausea symptoms can include:
Lip licking
Dry heaving
Vomiting bile or food
Decreased appetite
If your dog is eating grass and showing these symptoms persistently, it may be a sign of something more serious that requires veterinary evaluation.
6. Parasites or Toxins
Eating grass in contaminated areas (e.g., sprayed with pesticides or fertilizers) may introduce toxins into your dog’s system.
Ingesting parasites or larvae found in certain grasses can also lead to gastrointestinal upset and gagging after eating grass.
These symptoms may include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Weakness
Be cautious about where your dog is allowed to graze, and avoid areas treated with chemicals or frequented by wild animals.
Related: Does eating grass hurt dogs?
7. Stress and Anxiety
Stress is another common but often overlooked trigger. Anxious dogs may chew or eat grass and gag due to increased salivation or muscle tension in the throat.
Stress-related symptoms include:
Pacing or whining
Excessive drooling
Panting without exertion
Clinginess or hiding
Gagging in stressed dogs may be a physical response to a tight throat or rapid breathing, which can worsen with grass ingestion.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Grass and Gags
If you notice your dog eating grass and gagging regularly, here are the steps to take:
Observe the behavior closely: Note the frequency, intensity, and any accompanying symptoms (vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea).
Check for potential hazards: Make sure your yard is free of chemicals or sharp foreign materials.
Offer fresh water: Gagging can lead to dehydration; ensure your dog stays hydrated.
Modify the environment: Prevent access to grass if your dog has developed a habit of overconsumption or compulsive grazing.
Consult your veterinarian: Especially if gagging is persistent, frequent, or accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting or lethargy.
When to See a Vet
You should seek veterinary attention if:
Your dog gags persistently without relief
There is vomiting or diarrhea
The dog appears lethargic or refuses food
You notice signs of pain, bloating, or distress
Your dog has a history of eating foreign objects
The vet may perform diagnostic tests such as throat examination, X-rays, or bloodwork to determine the underlying cause.
Key Takeaway
While occasional grass-eating is usually normal, eating grass and gagging may indicate throat irritation, gastrointestinal issues, allergies, or stress.
It’s crucial to monitor your dog’s behavior, rule out dangerous substances or foreign objects, and seek veterinary care when symptoms persist or worsen.
A sudden change in behavior—especially gagging after eating grass—should never be ignored.
With the right care and attention, you can help your dog stay safe, healthy, and free from discomfort.