Why do Dogs Eat Grass Outside? (All you need to know)

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Dogs might not be as curious as cats, but they are.

If you have Labs and Pugs at home, then you might know what we are talking about.

While it is more common in these breeds, in general, all dog breeds tend to eat whatever they see.

Even grass!! Yes, you heard that right.

Dogs are originally carnivores, but can adjust to a plant-based diet.

But they can eat random grass that they come across.

Have you ever wondered why?

We bring to you a number of reasons why your dog would eat grass.

Why do Dogs Eat Grass Outside? (All you need to know)

1. Instinct from Wild Ancestors

Dogs are descendants of wild canines like wolves and foxes, who often ate grass as part of their natural behavior. In the wild, carnivores consume plant material found in the stomachs of their prey, including grasses.

Some researchers believe domestic dogs inherited this trait as part of their genetic makeup. So, grass eating might be a leftover ancestral instinct, not necessarily a sign of distress. It’s part of the dog’s complex relationship with its environment and evolutionary history.

2. A Natural Way to Induce Vomiting

Some dogs eat grass to make themselves vomit. If your dog suddenly gulps down a lot of grass and then throws up, it may be trying to relieve stomach discomfort. Grass may tickle the stomach lining or throat, triggering a natural gag reflex.

While not all dogs vomit after eating grass, some use it as a self-treatment method. If this happens occasionally, it’s usually nothing to worry about — but frequent vomiting should be evaluated by a vet.

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3. Dietary Fiber Deficiency

Dogs might be trying to supplement their diet. Grass contains roughage and fiber, which can help with digestion. If your dog is constipated or has irregular stools, it may instinctively seek out grass to help regulate its system.

In this case, grass acts as a natural digestive aid. A fiber-deficient commercial diet could make this behavior more common, especially in dogs not getting enough greens or whole grains.

4. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation

Sometimes, dogs eat grass simply because they’re bored. Dogs that are left alone for long periods, don’t get enough exercise, or lack mental stimulation may develop repetitive behaviors — including grass eating.

It’s similar to how people snack out of boredom, not hunger. If your dog only munches grass during uneventful walks or when left alone in the yard, boredom may be the cause.

5. Enjoyment of the Texture or Taste

Not all dogs eat grass for health reasons — some genuinely seem to enjoy it. Grass can be cool, fresh, and lightly sweet, especially in the spring when it’s young and soft.

Some dogs may like the texture or crunch, similar to how some people prefer raw vegetables. If your dog nibbles on grass slowly and calmly, it could be a personal taste preference rather than a behavioral issue.

6. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Dogs quickly learn which behaviors get a reaction. If you panic, scold, or rush over every time your dog eats grass, they may start doing it just to get your attention.

This is especially true for dogs who are left alone often or crave more interaction. What starts as curiosity may become a reinforced habit, especially if it gets them noticed.

7. Upset Stomach or Nausea

An upset tummy is one of the most common explanations for grass eating. Dogs sometimes eat grass to soothe gastrointestinal discomfort. Even if they don’t vomit, the fibrous material may help neutralize acid or relieve gas.

It’s not a guaranteed fix, but if your dog eats grass occasionally and seems better afterward, it could be their way of naturally dealing with stomach trouble.

8. Behavioral Habit or Compulsion

Some dogs develop a compulsive need to chew or eat grass. This behavior is more common in anxious or high-energy breeds, especially those without a consistent routine or enough outlets for stress.

If grass eating seems obsessive or happens constantly — even when your dog is full and active — it may be a behavioral compulsion. In such cases, it might require a professional trainer or behaviorist.

9. Hunger or Poor Nutrition

In some cases, dogs eat grass simply because they’re hungry or not fully satisfied by their regular meals. Low-quality dog food, irregular feeding times, or calorie deficiencies may push them to seek out additional food sources like grass.

If your dog eats grass and then still acts hungry or begs for more food later, this might be the reason. A nutritional review of their diet may help resolve the behavior.

10. Just Being a Dog

Sometimes, there’s no deeper explanation. Dogs are quirky animals, and eating grass might just be one of their harmless little habits. As long as your dog is healthy, active, and not vomiting frequently, occasional grass eating is completely normal.

Vets agree that in many cases, this is just a minor, benign behavior that doesn’t need to be fixed unless it becomes excessive.

🛑 How to Reduce Grass Eating Behavior

If your dog’s grass-eating habit is frequent, excessive, or bothersome, here are a few ways to reduce or redirect it:

  • Improve their diet. Make sure they’re getting balanced nutrition with enough fiber.

  • Add mental stimulation. Try puzzle toys, training games, or new walking routes to prevent boredom.

  • Exercise more. A tired dog is less likely to develop compulsive habits like grass eating.

  • Teach redirection commands. Use “leave it” or “come” commands to interrupt the behavior.

  • Avoid drawing attention. Don’t react dramatically — this can accidentally reinforce the habit.

  • Offer alternatives. Try safe chew toys or healthy veggie treats like baby carrots.

🐾 When to Consult the Vet

While grass eating is typically harmless, there are times when it can signal something more serious. Contact your vet if:

  • Your dog eats grass frequently and compulsively

  • They vomit often after eating grass

  • You notice signs of diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite

  • Grass eating is sudden and unusual for your dog

  • Your dog might have ingested chemically treated grass or lawn products

Your veterinarian can check for dietary imbalances, digestive issues, or behavioral concerns — and help create a safe, personalized plan for your dog.

There you have it!

A lost of reasons why dogs eat grass.

While it isn’t a sign of distress, you should also make sure that there’s nothing that can be toxic to them.