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Have you ever wondered why dogs eat grass even though they get a well-nourished diet and plenty of food? People have long thought that it helps their upset stomach but there are other theories that are just as popular to go along with this one, in this blog I will cover these ideas and help you get an understanding as to the question why do dogs eat grass.
The first most common answer is the belief that it either calms their stomach or purges what may be upsetting it through vomiting. Dogs will either nibble or gulp down grass and then hack it back up but this is NOT because it is a toxic substance to dogs, most species of grass actually have benefits for dogs, it is because the blades tickle the throat and stomach causing a reaction inside.
Most dogs don't even throw up when they eat grass and people still say it is for upset stomachs through other ways, this leads us into our next theory for why dogs eat grass.
Another possible idea for why dogs eat grass is that they aren't getting a proper diet and use grass as a filler. The grass is full of fiber and other necessary vitamins that dogs may need, and when deprived of these, dogs may use grass as a way to make their diet better. There are some critiques to this belief on the principle that dogs have no way of knowing this information, but either way, the idea should still be considered. It is important for your dog's health that you make sure you have fulfilled their basic dietary requirements.
If you have a concerned about your dog’s diet your vet will know the proper things to do, and there are plenty of supplements like coconut oil and salmon oil that have benefits while providing nutrients to dogs. Check out this milk supplement that helps stay healthy!
One of the most backed ideas is the fact that dogs may like the taste of grass just as they like numerous amounts of things humans find unappetizing. Just think about all the weird thing dogs eat, from bugs to leftover meatloaf. there are very few things my dogs won't eat and grass isn't that strange on that list.
If your dog enjoys the taste why wouldn't they go outside to a field full of tasty green treats and start munching away? Though too much of anything can be a bad thing and you should make sure your dog isn't overdoing it if they start gulping down grass.
The final idea I will be covering in this blog is that your dogs are simply bored and this may be the main reason on why do dogs eat grass. When dogs don't have the proper outlets to keep them entertained they may be prone to destructive behaviors like chewing objectsand eating anything they find including grass. When I get bored I often find a bag of chips to start munching on and this behavior is no different for our furry friends. There are ways to keep your dog entertained however and most of them are simple solutions you can start right away. Make sure as a dog owner you are providing enough toys and playtime to keep them entertained throughout the day to prevent them eating grass and other dog behavior problems.
Now you have some ideas as to why your dog spends their time grazing the grass rather than chasing the butterflies. Eating grass can be a sign of pain and if your dog suddenly starts or has an increase in the amount they eat you should seek assistance from your veterinarian. Additionally, grass should not be a substitute for certain dietary needs and is not suggested for a healthy dog diet.
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