When acid builds up in our own stomachs, people often take an antacid knowing they'll feel better soon. In dogs, eating grass may have the same effect in acting as a 'natural antacid'. Most dogs appear to feel better after eating grass, but this relief is often temporary as most dogs vomit afterwards.
How do dogs know to eat grass when their stomach hurts?
There may be some instinctive psychological reasons for this behavior, too. Dogs come from wild canine ancestors which ate whatever animals they could hunt, including the stomach contents of those animals. Those contents usually included the grass the animals had been eating.
Should I let my dog eat grass when his stomach is upset?
Whatever the reason, most experts believe it's okay to let your dog eat grass. But they do suggest a couple of caveats: If the grass is eaten in gulps and your dog vomits, or there is a sudden increase in grass eating, it's time to talk with your veterinarian.
Why do dogs eat grass until they are sick?
Other suggested reasons why your dog might be eating grass include improving digestion, treating intestinal worms, or fulfilling some unmet nutritional need, including the need for fiber. One published study reports on a miniature poodle that ate grass and then vomited every day for seven years.
Do dogs eat grass when they are sick?
Although it's a common belief that dogs eat grass (or other plants) when they feel sick or to induce vomiting, evidence suggests that this is not the case. In 2007, a study was published including a large sample of surveys from owners regarding plant-eating behaviors in their dogs.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
Do dogs eat grass when they are sick?How do dogs know to eat grass when they are sick?
