Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

I’m pretty sure that my dogs don’t have 4 stomachs as a cow does. I’m positive they don’t chew the cud, and I know they get plenty of fresh, food with all the nutrients they need, but I’ve seen all four of my dogs eat grass at one time or another.

Have you wondered if something was wrong when you’ve seen your dog eat grass? Are they sick? Rest assured, you are not alone in your concern. I’ve been asked this question many, many times.

Sometimes a dog eats grass when they don’t feel well as a way to make themselves feel better. There are some, however, that disagree with this because they say dogs are not smart enough. I say it’s more about instinct than about smarts, although I think dogs — especially Chihuahuas — are very smart! However, grass in itself will not cause a dog to vomit, so that is not the reason entirely.

Sometimes, when your dog eats grass, it could indicate that they have some nutritional deficiency. Depending on the type of grass, some do contain many nutrients and minerals that dogs need,  but most often it is simply out of boredom. This is especially true of puppies and young dogs.

Should You Stop Your Dog From Eating Grass?

There really is no need to stop your dog or worry about it. If you make sure that your dog is getting plenty of needed exercise, and playtime, gets enough fiber in his diet, then it may just be a normal behavior for your dog. If you only notice it occasionally, it may be that he has a bit of a tummy ache.

Be Cautious

Please note that while eating grass is not dangerous, some pesticides and herbicides that are used on lawns are toxic to dogs. Some garden flowers and plants are toxic and even fatal if eaten by a dog (or cat). You can find a list of toxic plants on the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center website. I advise that you keep this number handy. Put it on your fridge or somewhere that you can access it quickly. You really never know when you might need it.

It would just be smart to read it and check your yard to make sure that you don’t unknowingly have some toxic plants or flowers growing that could harm your Chihuahua.

If your Chihuahua is eating grass and does not have a tummy ache, is not bored, or is not a puppy, then most likely he is either missing some important nutrient in his diet or is not getting enough fiber in his diet.

HOW TO ASSURE YOUR CHIHUAHUA IS GETTING THE NUTRIENTS HES NEEDS AND ENOUGH FIBER

I have made it no secret that I (and many veterinarians) believe that the best diet and the best chance of a long and healthy life is fresh, with natural, whole ingredients. Nothing artificial. I recommend NomNom. This is what I fed all my dogs while I was researching canine nutrition for my book. I now make my own.

I do not recommend that anyone make their own unless they discuss it with their veterinarian or get the advice of a canine nutrition specialist first. The reason is obvious, you want to be absolutely positive that they are getting all the nutrients and minerals in the right balance to keep them healthy for a lifetime.

Even most veterinarians don’t know much about nutrition. It may surprise you to know that in veterinary medical school very little is taught about nutrition. Some veterinarians do however go on to study nutrition and become veterinary nutritionists and specialize in nutrition.

Why NomNom?

• NomNom is fresh dog food formulated by a veterinary nutritionist on staff. So you know it has all the vitamins, minerals, and fiber that your Chihuahua needs and in the right balance. No other dog food sold fresh can say that. They may tell you they have veterinary nutrition consultants …. Only NomNom has one on staff at all times.
• It is cooked in their own kitchens and the ingredients are locally sourced for freshness.
• They oversee each and every step of the process.
• It is pre-portioned to the exact serving size your individual Chihuahua needs to maintain their ideal weight.
• Just thaw, pour, and that’s it! How easy is that?
• Peace of mind knowing that your Chihuahua is getting the very best food possible is priceless.

If you would like to try it for your Chihuahua (you’ll be glad you did!) now only through ChiChis And Me you can try it for 50% OFF! One-time, limited offer.