Eating grass is a common behaviour in our dogs, and many dogs simply do it because they think it tastes good. But can it also be a sign of illness, and if so, how do you tell the difference?
Is it normal for the dog to eat grass?
Eating grass is a completely normal dog behaviour. Some dogs simply seem to like it, and eat grass now and then because they think it tastes good, especially the fresh spring grass. Grass eating in a dog that is otherwise healthy, has a good appetite, maintains its weight and has normal stools does not indicate illness.
It is not dangerous for the dog to eat grass, but as with everything else it should be kept within reasonable limits - the dog chewing on a few blades of grass here and there is not dangerous, but if it is in very large amounts there can be a risk of a blockage in the stomach or intestine.
Can grass eating indicate illness?
If the dog often eats grass and then vomits, it can be a sign of illness. Generally it is not the grass eating in itself that is the problem, but the dog eats grass to relieve stomach problems or nausea that have another underlying cause. It is normal to eat grass - but it is not normal to vomit often.
Vomiting can be caused by various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis, infections or allergies. If the dog eats grass and vomits or has other symptoms such as reduced appetite, weight loss or abnormal stools, or other signs that make you suspect illness, this should always be investigated by a vet.
If the dog is otherwise feeling well but eats grass and vomits when a long time has passed since it last ate, you can try dividing the meals into smaller portions and feeding more often so that the dog does not go on an empty stomach for too long, or feed a complete food that is gentle on the stomach.
How does food for sensitive stomachs differ from others?
There are foods designed specifically for dogs with different types of diseases or sensitivity in the gastrointestinal tract. These foods are usually easy to digest, and sometimes contain ingredients to support the gut flora. If your dog has major problems or a disease of the gastrointestinal tract, you should always consult your vet for guidance on treatment or food choice.
In our dog food we have chosen to use ingredients that contribute to good gut health; prebiotics and dietary fibres. In recent times more and more research has shown how important the gut's bacterial flora is for gut health.
Including ingredients that nourish the good gut bacteria, that is prebiotics, and contribute to the movements of the intestine, that is dietary fibre, promotes a healthy gastrointestinal system. Dietary fibre also contributes to a feeling of fullness and a normal transit time for the food.
We have also chosen to include natural ingredients that provide B vitamins; seaweed and brewer's yeast. B vitamins fill many important functions in the body, not least for the digestive system where they are important factors in metabolism and enzyme activity, and can support a normal gut function.
Read more about the benefits of our insect-based dog food here.