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When my dogs ate grass obsessively, I did some research and learned how to improve their diet and slow down the natural habit of eating grass.

My dogs eat grass. I'm usually not concerned, but I am curious about the behavior because there are times when it's concerning. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why dogs eat grass, explore alternative options that provide similar benefits, and stop the behavior when it becomes concerning. You'll be interested in learning that eating grass isn't always because a dog wants to vomit.

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?

There are various theories as to why dogs eat grass. Some suggest that dogs eat grass to soothe an upset stomach, aid in digestion, or fulfill a nutritional need. Others believe grass eating is a natural behavior inherited from their wild ancestors and our dogs enjoy the taste and texture. Regardless of the reason, occasional grass consumption is generally considered safe for dogs as long as the grass is free from pesticides and toxins.

I've noticed my dogs enjoy fresh grass that's young, green, and tender. I don't discourage the consumption, but I do pay attention in case the grass eating is a sign that I need to adjust their diet.

Alternatives to Eating Grass for Dogs

If you're concerned about your dog's consumption of grass, if your dog is more interested in eating grass than playing, there are adjustments you can make to their diet that will slow or stop this behavior. As stated, grass eating is a natural behavior for dogs, so it may not go away entirely, and that's okay. This list shares what I've learned that has stopped the obsessive consumption of grass I used to see in my dogs.

Benefits of Fiber

Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system in dogs. It promotes solid stools, aids in nutrient absorption, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Good sources of fiber for dogs include fruits, vegetables, and seeds. Adding fiber to your dog's diet can support gut health and provide digestive benefits similar to grass consumption.

A few natural sources of fiber I keep on hand for my dogs include:

Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support the balance of gut flora in dogs. They aid in digestion, strengthen the immune system, reduce allergies, and improve nutrient absorption. Probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and alleviate digestive issues in dogs, like IBD, potentially reducing the urge to eat grass.

A bag of Gussy's Gut lasts more than two months with my three large dogs.

Benefits of Spirulina

Spirulina is a nutrient-rich blue-green algae rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. It offers anti-inflammatory properties, supports the immune system, and promotes overall health in dogs. Both spirulina and grass contain chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis in plants. Chlorophyll is known for its cleansing and detoxifying properties, supporting the body's natural detox processes.

Spirulina can be added to your dog's diet as a supplement to enhance nutrient intake and provide health benefits similar to grass. I generally add a 1/4 teaspoon to my dogs' meals.

Benefits of Chlorella

Chlorella is a freshwater algae known for its detoxifying properties and high nutrient content. Like spirulina (above) and grass, chlorella contains chlorophyll, amino acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support detoxification, immune function, and cellular health in dogs. Adding chlorella to your dog's diet can help cleanse the body and provide essential nutrients. I generally add a 1/4 teaspoon to my dogs' meals.

Benefits of Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a young grass of the wheat plant that is packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, chlorophyll, and enzymes. It offers antioxidant properties, supports detoxification, and aids in digestion. Wheatgrass can be juiced or blended into your dog's diet to provide a nutrient boost and offer similar benefits to grass consumption.

I like to add a small amount, less than a teaspoon, mixed with warm water or bone broth (to form a paste) to the edge of my dogs' dishes. If it's something they need, they'll lick it up. If one leaves it behind, one of my other dogs will eat it.

Recommended Dosages

This isn't a popular response, but the truth is that the recommended amount of any of the fresh foods listed above depends on the dog—it depends on their size, age, preferences, and health. I always start small and increase the amount I add to their meals until I see improvement—that becomes the recommended dose. This can be a pinch of broccoli sprouts or wheatgrass added to the bowl regularly, two heaping tablespoons of pureed pumpkin, or a teaspoon of ground hemp seeds.

Final Thoughts on Dogs Eating Grass

While grass eating is a common behavior in dogs, understanding the reasons behind it can help pet owners address potential underlying issues or provide suitable alternatives. Incorporating fiber, probiotics, spirulina, chlorella, and wheatgrass into your dog's diet can offer similar benefits to grass consumption while promoting digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. It's important to keep your veterinarian in the loop in case the grass eating is a symptom of something more serious than a need for additional fiber in the diet.

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