Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? What It Means and When to Worry

It’s a question we hear all the time at Sapphire Vets:

“Dr. Maharaj, my dog keeps eating grass — is something wrong?”

If you’ve ever caught your furry friend nibbling at your lawn, you’re definitely not alone. Dog owners across Trinidad — from Diego Martin to Arima — ask this question every week.

The good news? In most cases, grass-eating is completely normal canine behavior. But sometimes, it can also be a clue that something else is going on inside your dog’s body.

Let’s look at why dogs eat grass, when it’s harmless, and when you should book a quick check-up with your vet.

1. Instinct and Natural Curiosity

Dogs are natural scavengers. Long before they became our companions, wild canines ate whatever they could find — including plants, fruits, and even dirt.

So for many dogs, chewing grass is just instinctive behavior. It feels natural and satisfies their curiosity about textures and tastes.

Some dogs may even like the feeling of chewing something fibrous — like how we might absentmindedly chew on a straw.

💡 Tip: If your dog grazes occasionally and seems perfectly healthy otherwise, it’s likely nothing to worry about.

2. A Source of Fiber or Roughage

Another common reason dogs eat grass is to help their digestion.

Grass acts as a natural source of fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements. If your dog’s diet is low in fiber or they’re feeling slightly constipated, eating a few blades of grass might help move things along.

However, if you notice frequent constipation, straining, or unusual stool, it’s best to talk to your vet. Sometimes, adjusting your dog’s diet to include more fiber or switching to a high-quality food can make a big difference.

3. To Induce Vomiting — or Soothe an Upset Stomach

You might have heard people say dogs eat grass when they want to vomit. There’s some truth to that — but it’s not always the reason.

Some dogs vomit after eating grass, while others don’t. The texture of grass can irritate the stomach lining just enough to trigger vomiting, which might help if they’re feeling nauseous or bloated.

However, frequent vomiting is never normal. If your dog:

• Eats grass and vomits often

• Shows signs of stomach discomfort

• Has diarrhea or loss of appetite

...then it’s time to bring them in for a check-up at Sapphire Vets. Persistent nausea could be linked to gastritis, parasites, or dietary sensitivities that need medical attention.

🌱 4. Boredom, Anxiety, or Attention-Seeking

Sometimes, eating grass isn’t about digestion at all — it’s about emotion.

Dogs that spend a lot of time alone, lack mental stimulation, or have anxiety may turn to grass-eating as a soothing or attention-seeking behavior.

If you notice your dog tends to eat grass more when left alone or when they’re anxious (like during thunderstorms), this might be a clue.

Try increasing playtime, going for longer walks, or giving them puzzle toys to keep their mind engaged. At Sapphire Vets, we often recommend enrichment strategies to help reduce stress-related behaviors like this.

5. When Grass-Eating Becomes a Concern

While occasional grass-snacking is fine, there are times when it’s a red flag.

You should contact your vet if:

• Your dog vomits frequently after eating grass

• There’s diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite

• They seem obsessed with eating grass

• They eat grass that may have been sprayed with pesticides or chemicals

Remember — lawns, especially in public areas, may contain herbicides, fertilizers, or parasites that can make your dog sick.

If your dog has been chewing grass in an area that’s been recently treated or sprayed, give Sapphire Vets a call right away. We’ll help you assess whether it’s safe or if your pet needs to be examined.

Local Context: What Trinidad Dog Owners Should Know

In Trinidad and Tobago, we often see dogs eating grass in open lots, roadside patches, or home gardens. Unfortunately, these areas are not always safe — especially after heavy rains, which can spread contaminants and intestinal parasites.

Our vets often treat dogs who have picked up stomach infections from contaminated soil or grass, particularly puppies and dogs that roam outdoors.

To reduce risk:

• Keep your yard clean and free of sprayed chemicals

• Deworm regularly (every 3 months for most dogs)

• Stick to high-quality diets with balanced nutrition

• Provide enrichment to reduce boredom

How to Stop (or Manage) Grass-Eating

If your dog’s grass-eating habit is mild, you don’t need to stop it completely. But if it’s excessive or you’re worried about safety, try these tips:

1. Switch to a fiber-rich diet — Ask your vet for a recommended food that supports digestive health.

2. Provide safe chew options — Carrots, dog-safe dental chews, or enrichment toys can satisfy chewing urges.

3. Address anxiety or boredom — Walks, playtime, or even short training sessions can help.

4. Keep them hydrated — Dehydration sometimes leads dogs to chew or lick unusual things.

5. Monitor access — If your yard or nearby grass is sprayed, restrict access until it’s safe.

When in Doubt, Ask Your Vet

If you’re unsure why your dog is eating grass or if something seems off, it’s always better to check in with a professional.

At Sapphire Vets, our team of experienced veterinarians can help determine whether your dog’s behavior is harmless or a sign of an underlying issue. We’ll guide you through nutrition, parasite prevention, and lifestyle adjustments to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Final Thoughts

For most dogs, eating grass is a harmless quirk — part instinct, part curiosity. But if it happens too often or is paired with vomiting or other symptoms, it’s time to take a closer look.

Your dog’s well-being is always worth a quick chat with your vet. After all, understanding small behaviors like this can help prevent bigger problems down the road.

👉 Have questions about your dog’s grass-eating habit?Book an appointment at Sapphire Vets today.We’re here to keep your pets — and your peace of mind — healthy.