If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why is my dog eating grass excessively?” — you’re not alone.
Many dog owners notice this behavior and wonder if it’s a sign of illness, boredom, or simply a quirky canine habit.
While occasional grass eating is relatively normal, excessive grass eating can raise red flags.
We outline the reasons why your dog is eating grass excessively, when it might be a cause for concern, what you can do about it, and when to consult your veterinarian.
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What It Means When My Dog Is Eating Grass Excessively
If your dog is eating grass excessively, it may be due to several reasons including an upset stomach, boredom, anxiety, dietary deficiency, or simply instinctive behavior.
While occasional grass eating is generally considered normal and harmless, excessive or sudden changes in this behavior may indicate an underlying issue such as gastrointestinal discomfort, parasites, or a lack of fiber in the diet.
Some dogs may also use grass to induce vomiting if they’re feeling unwell.
Causes of Dog Panting, Shaking, and Clingy Behavior
1. Upset Stomach or Nausea
One of the most common explanations for a dog eating grass excessively is gastrointestinal discomfort. Some dogs instinctively consume grass to induce vomiting and relieve nausea.
If your dog eats grass and vomits regularly, it may be attempting to purge something that’s causing stomach upset.
While this may offer temporary relief, it’s essential to find out why your dog’s stomach is upset in the first place.
Signs that your dog may be eating grass due to nausea:
Lip licking or smacking
Drooling
Lack of appetite
Restlessness
Vomiting after grass consumption
If your dog is eating grass and vomiting, especially frequently, consult your veterinarian.
This behavior could point to gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux, dietary intolerance, or even more serious conditions like pancreatitis.
Related: Puppy won’t stop eating grass (Here’s why)
2. Nutritional Deficiency
Another reason dogs eat grass excessively is to compensate for a nutritional imbalance.
Dogs that lack fiber, essential minerals, or other nutrients in their diet may turn to grass as a natural supplement.
Although grass doesn’t offer much nutritional value, the fibrous texture may help dogs digest their food better.
If your dog is on a low-fiber diet, they may seek out grass to aid in bowel movement and digestion.
To help curb this, consider evaluating your dog’s food.
Make sure it’s well-balanced, high-quality, and appropriate for their size, age, and activity level.
A dog eating grass excessively might benefit from added dietary fiber through vegetables or specialized kibble formulas.
3. Boredom or Anxiety
Just like humans bite their nails or pace when stressed, dogs may eat grass excessively out of boredom or anxiety.
If your dog isn’t getting enough mental or physical stimulation, they might develop repetitive behaviors — like eating grass.
This is particularly common in high-energy breeds or dogs left alone for long periods.
Signs that grass eating may be stress-related:
Pacing or restlessness
Excessive barking or whining
Destructive behavior at home
Grass eating combined with digging or chewing
If your dog keeps eating grass excessively and seems restless or anxious, consider adding more enrichment to their routine.
Longer walks, puzzle toys, and quality playtime can help reduce the behavior.
Related: Dog throwing up grass and blood (Here’s why)
4. Pica or Compulsive Eating
Pica is a condition in which dogs eat non-food items, including grass, dirt, rocks, and other unusual substances.
If your dog is eating grass obsessively, and also chewing on other strange objects, it could be a sign of pica.
This behavior may stem from:
Poor diet
Hormonal imbalances
Neurological conditions
Psychological issues
Pica requires veterinary attention, especially if your dog is ingesting harmful substances.
Grass itself may not be dangerous, but excessive consumption increases the risk of ingesting pesticides, chemicals, or parasites.
5. Habit or Learned Behavior
Sometimes, dogs eat grass excessively just because they like it.
The texture and smell of grass might appeal to them, especially if it’s part of their environment during walks or outdoor play.
If your dog started eating grass and received attention for it — whether positive or negative — they might continue doing it as a learned behavior.
In this case, it becomes more of a habit than a symptom of something deeper.
Redirecting your dog’s focus with toys, treats, or commands can help break the cycle of excessive grass eating behavior.
Is It Dangerous If My Dog Eats Grass Excessively?
While occasional grass consumption isn’t harmful, excessive grass eating in dogs can lead to health risks. The biggest concern isn’t the grass itself, but what might be on it — pesticides, herbicides, or lawn chemicals that can be toxic to dogs.
Ingesting large quantities of grass can also lead to:
Intestinal blockage
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Choking hazards (especially for small dogs)
Also, excessive grass eating might be a symptom rather than the problem itself.
If your dog is eating grass excessively and vomiting, or showing other signs like lethargy or diarrhea, it’s time to call your vet.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Eating Grass Excessively
If you’ve noticed this pattern, here’s what you can do:
1. Evaluate Their Diet
Ensure your dog is receiving complete and balanced nutrition.
Talk to your vet about switching to a diet that includes more fiber or essential nutrients.
A proper diet can reduce behaviors linked to nutritional deficiencies and grass eating.
2. Increase Physical and Mental Stimulation
If boredom or anxiety is a factor, provide more physical exercise, interactive play, and mental challenges. Enrichment can go a long way in reducing compulsive grass eating in dogs.
3. Use Safe Grass Alternatives
Some owners grow pet-safe grass indoors to give dogs a clean option if they have the urge to chew.
This prevents exposure to outdoor chemicals and allows controlled consumption.
4. Monitor and Redirect Behavior
When your dog starts eating grass excessively, gently redirect them with a command, toy, or treat. Consistency is key. Reward them for stopping the behavior.
5. Visit Your Veterinarian
If your dog is also vomiting, has diarrhea, shows changes in appetite, or appears lethargic, schedule a check-up.
Excessive grass eating can indicate gastrointestinal disorders, parasites, or systemic illness.
When to See a Vet for Excessive Grass Eating
Seek immediate veterinary attention if:
Your dog is eating grass and throwing up repeatedly
Grass eating is accompanied by diarrhea, lethargy, or drooling
Your dog’s appetite has changed or they seem unusually thirsty
You suspect they’ve ingested toxic substances
The behavior has become obsessive or compulsive
Puppies, seniors, and dogs with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable to complications from excessive grass consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I stop my dog from eating grass altogether?
Not necessarily. Occasional grass eating is usually fine. But if your dog eats grass excessively, redirect the behavior and consult your vet if other symptoms are present.
Can eating grass harm my dog?
A: It can, especially if the grass has been treated with pesticides or herbicides. Excessive grass eating can also lead to digestive issues or blockages.
What breeds are more likely to eat grass?
Any dog can exhibit this behavior, but intelligent and energetic breeds like Border Collies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds may engage in grass eating more when bored.
Key Takeaway: My Dog Is Eating Grass Excessively
While occasional grass eating in dogs is normal and typically harmless, excessive grass eating can signal a range of issues — from dietary gaps and boredom to nausea, stress, or even illness.
If your dog is eating grass compulsively, vomiting, or showing other signs of distress, don’t brush it off. It’s worth exploring their behavior further and consulting your vet.
By identifying the root cause and making appropriate changes, you can help your dog feel better — and possibly kick the grass-eating habit for good.