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If your dog is a grass-eater, you’re not alone. Many pet owners have noticed their dogs eating some grass, and it’s actually a fairly common behaviour. But why is your pup grazing on grass, and what can you do about it? Eating grass is quite common in dogs, and there are a number of potential reasons why they might be doing it. From boredom to needing to be sick, there are a few potential causes for why your dog is eating grass. In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your dog may be eating grass. So if you’re looking for answers to why your pup is eating grass and how to address the behaviour, you’ve come to the right place.
Is It Normal For Dogs To Eat Grass?
Yes, it is perfectly normal for dogs to eat grass. While dogs eating some grass is perfectly normal, some dogs will eat more grass than others. The reasons behind why they do this can vary depending on the individual dog. If your dog has started to eat a lot of grass, then it’s a good idea to find out why by checking in with your vet.
Top Reasons Why Your Dog Is Eating Grass
If your pup is eating lots of grass, there may be a few different reasons why. They may enjoy the taste or texture of grass, or they may be eating it because they need fibre. They may be bored and eating grass as a way to pass the time, or they may be eating it because they need to be sick. They may also be eating it in an attempt to get rid of parasites. While it’s normal for dogs to eat grass, there are times when it’s concerning. If your dog has suddenly started eating a lot of grass, it’s important to pay attention and take action by visiting your vet.
They Enjoy The Taste Or Texture
If your dog is eating the grass and they don’t have any other symptoms, they could just be eating the grass because they enjoy the taste or texture. If this is the case, it’s likely that your pup will eat only a little bit of grass rather than large quantities of it. If you think this is the case, you don’t need to worry about your dog eating grass, as it’s not typically harmful. However, eating grass can be a risk of lungworm due to snail or slug residue being on the grass.
They’re Bored
Dogs are complex creatures, and they often need stimulation, both physically and mentally. If your dog is eating it because they’re bored, it’s important to find ways to keep them occupied. You can try to find ways to keep them mentally stimulated, such as feeding them their meals in puzzle feeders. You can also provide your dog with lots of toys and games they can enjoy, as well as walks and exercise. If you don’t provide your dog with enough mental and physical stimulation, they may start eating grass, as well as other things such as furniture.
They Need To Be Sick
If your dog eats grass and then soon after ends up vomiting, they could be eating the grass because they need to be sick. If your dog eats grass and then is sick soon after, you should take them to a vet as soon as possible. Your dog may have eaten something that disagreed with them, or there could be another cause for them needing to be sick, especially if they’re showing any other signs of sickness, such as lethargy.
They Need Fibre
Some dogs need more fibre in their diets. If your dog is eating grass because they need fibre, they may be doing so because they are lacking fibre in their diet. Dogs who need more fibre in their diets often have issues with constipation or have a difficult time passing stool. If you’re worried this is the reason your dog is eating grass, your vet can help you come up with a diet plan that provides your dog with more fibre.
They Need Help To Get Rid Of Parasites
If your dog has a worm infestation, they may eat grass to help them get rid of the parasites, as undigested grass can help clear them out of the intestines. It’s important to note that if your dog has a worm infestation, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible to get treated. Your vet will be able to treat the worms and help you establish a worming schedule to avoid future infestations.
When To Contact Your Vet
If your dog is eating it and you don’t know why it’s a good idea to get them checked out by a veterinarian. You may be able to identify the cause of their behaviour using the information in this article, but it’s best to talk to a medical professional as well. If your dog is eating it and they’re otherwise healthy, you probably don’t need to worry. But if they are eating abnormal amounts of grass or showing signs of sickness, contact your vet.
Ensuring You Have Pet Insurance
Whether your dog is eating grass because they’re bored or because they’re unwell, if you own a dog, you should definitely consider pet insurance. Unfortunately, dogs are prone to getting sick and injured, just like humans. And when they do, it can be very costly. Pet insurance will cover these costs, and it can save you a lot of stress. When choosing pet insurance, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the right policy to fit your dog, such as one for puppies, dogs with existing conditions, or older dogs that may not have been insured before. If your dog is older, it can be challenging to find the right insurance, as many providers have age limits on their policies. However, Purely Pets have no upper age limit within their pet insurance, which means you will be able to get your dog insured and covered for the unexpected regardless of their age.
Signs Your Dog Is Unwell
If your dog is eating it, you may be wondering if they are sick. The first thing to do if you’re wondering if your dog is sick is to take a look at their behaviour. If they appear to be eating grass because they are bored, that’s a different problem from a sick dog. If your dog is eating large amounts of grass and is showing other signs of being unwell, you should take them to the vet. Here are a few symptoms to look out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Change in drinking habits
- Increased or decreased urination
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Changes in behaviour
- Pale gums
How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Grass
If your dog has started eating grass, it’s important to figure out why they’re doing it before you attempt to stop them. If they’re doing it for boredom or because they enjoy the texture, you can use mental stimulation and training to redirect the behaviour into more positive ones. However, if you think your dog is eating grass to be sick, for more fibre, or because of parasites, it’s important to work with your vet to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
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