Every caregiver knows the favorite taste of his four-legged friend: some like chicken-flavored food, others prefer meat-flavored food, and there are even those who like lamb-flavored food. In fact, puppies usually love any kind of meat. So it may seem strange that your dog eats grass.
So much so that this behavior is a cause for concern for most owners. But is it an alarm signal if your dog eats grass? we explain once and for all why your dog eats dry leaves, flowers and foliage!
Table of contents
Puppy eats grass: what can it be?
Observing a dog eating grass can baffle many pet owners. Why is the dog eating grass? Is the animal hungry? Sick? Is it a sign of worms? Or is it simply bored?
In fact, there is no single answer to this question. Studies show that the habit of eating grass is very common in dogs.
Wolves and wild dogs also often do this. Among the most common reasons why dogs eat grass, researchers say is:
- Improves digestion;
- Intake of dietary fiber,
- Appreciation of the taste of plant species.
But eating grass can also be a symptom of certain diseases. So if your pet suddenly starts doing this, even if he has always had access to the garden, or if he shows other symptoms, it is good to keep your eyes open!
Warning signs: When should you worry?
Noticing that the fact that the dog eats grass by itself is not alarming. However, if you notice other symptoms, it is a sign that your friend may be ill. Therefore, be careful if the habit of eating grass is accompanied by one:
- Vomiting;
- Apathy;
- Loss of appetite;
- Dysbiosis,
- Diarrhea.
The main focus is on the frequency with which the animal eats grass. If you notice that the dog eats grass constantly, it may be a health problem.
But be careful: just as the reasons can vary, the symptoms can also have other causes, such as the dog vomiting.
Health problems that cause puppies to eat grass
Although eating grass in dogs rarely means disease, certain health conditions can lead to this habit in the animal. It can be related to various gastrointestinal changes.
Among the most common problems that trigger the desire to eat grass:
- Poor nutrition;
- Dehydration;
- Verminosis;
- Foreign body;
- Colic,
- Abdominal discomfort.
So, if you notice that your friend not only eats grass very often, but also has other symptoms, you should consult a veterinarian. He will be able to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the best treatment depending on the cause of the problem.
How to get your dog to stop eating grass
If you want to help your little friend stop eating grass – or simply prevent him from ruining your yard – there are some simple and effective steps you can take:
- Regular vaccinations and deworming are important to ensure that the puppy is spared from parasites and worms;
- A balanced diet provides all the necessary components for proper nutrition and prevents the puppy from searching for fiber in the grass. Always choose quality food and preferably premium or super premium food;
- Puppies have a lot of energy and need regular exercise. Lack of play can bore a puppy and lead to certain behaviors like grass eating,
- Regular visits to the veterinarian allow close monitoring of the animal’s health so that any changes can be detected early.
References:
Characterisation of plant eating in dogs. / Sueda, Karen Lynn Chieko; Hart, Benjamin; Cliff, Kelly Davis.In: Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Vol. 111, No. 1-2, 01.05.2008, p. 120-132. Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review.
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