Dogs are carnivores. They're meat lovers who aren't fussy about dining on a bowl of kibble or tearing into a meat-filled bone. So when you see your dog abruptly making a frantic beeline for the outside and gobbling up grass like it's a salad buffet, it's a little… confusing.
This is normal behavior and is referred to as Pica—a term used when animals (or even people) eat things that are not food. But don't jump to conclusions yet, here's the thing: dogs eating grass is not always a bad thing. Most dogs attempt it at some point during their lives.
However, if the activity appears panicked or out of the ordinary, it's something to take note of. Below are some of the most common reasons dogs eat grass—and what it could mean for your dog.
1. They're Trying to Settle Their Stomach
One of the most common reasons for grass-eating is that your dog's stomach doesn't feel too great. You'll notice them pacing, whining at the door, and then they'll make a run to chomp down on the closest blade of grass like they're on a mission.
That kind of urgency is usually a sign they're not feeling comfortable.
Why grass, though? Some believe dogs instinctively know it's difficult to digest—and they're attempting to calm down their stomach or actually induce vomiting. Consider it a DIY remedy. The blades of the grass are abrasive and can cause irritation to the throat or stomach lining, which will cause them to vomit whatever is bothering them.
It's a DIY dog medicine.
2. When Should You Worry?
There is a difference between a dog nibbling at grass occasionally and a wolfing of it with desperation.
If your dog nibbles at grass occasionally when out for a walk or when exploring the yard, that's usually nothing to worry about. But if they suddenly run outside and start devouring it ravenously, that may be an indication that they are not feeling well.
In those cases, keep an eye on how often it happens. One time could be an isolated upset stomach. But if your dog starts doing this a lot—or seems upset—it's a good idea to speak with your vet to rule out anything serious.
3. It Could Be Instinct
Even with the warm, modern lives our dogs enjoy now, their instincts are still there. In the wild, dogs would feast on whatever they could lay their paws on—meat, plants, even the stomach contents of their prey (which would often include grass and other veggies).
That survival instinct never quite left them. Some dogs still eat like it's a feast-or-famine situation. So if they find a patch of grass that's delectable—especially one they particularly enjoy like sweetgrass—they may just plunge right in without hesitation.
It does not always have to be a stomach problem. Sometimes they are just listening to their gut. literally.
4. They May Be Missing Something in Their Diet
Dogs have a pretty good sense of what their bodies need. Even if you’re feeding them a balanced, vet-approved diet, they may still crave something they’re not getting enough of—like fiber or certain vitamins.
Grass is surprisingly nutritious. It contains phytonutrients, potassium, and fiber, all of which can support digestion and general wellness. So if your dog feels something’s off, eating grass might be their way of correcting it.
They don't have to be sick to do so. It's sometimes preventive—similar to you taking your daily multivitamin, just in a doggy sort of way.
5. What You Can Do About It
If your dog's grass-eating is driving you crazy—or you're worried it's a sign of something bigger—you can attempt to make some changes to their diet.
Start by looking for a dog food with:
A novel protein source
More fiber
Added probiotics
Often, these little adjustments can eliminate the issue altogether. Some owners found that once their dog's nutritional needs were fully met, the grass obsession vanished.
Give it a shot and see how your dog responds.
6. Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Grass?
For the most part, grass itself is not harmful. It's a natural plant that contains helpful nutrients, and a small amount won't hurt your dog. The problem is where they're consuming it.
If the grass has been treated with pesticides or fertilizers, then it can be toxic. Public parks, golf courses, or even your neighbor's immaculately groomed lawn can be saturated with chemicals that can cause serious health issues.
In addition, keep in mind that when grazing, your dog can accidentally ingest toxic plants or fungi hiding in the grass. It's a good idea to periodically inspect your lawn and remove anything that might be toxic.
Final Thoughts
Watching your dog frantically eat grass might seem strange—or even alarming—but in many cases, it’s nothing to worry about. It could be a simple case of instinct, a minor stomach issue, or a response to a nutrient imbalance.
That being said, do monitor the frequency and urgency of the behavior. A dog that grazes like a goat now and then is likely not in distress. But one that rushes outside to gobble grass on a regular basis may need a diet change—or a visit to the vet.
At the end of the day, your dog's body does know what it requires. Your task is simply to assist them in the best way possible for their health.
