Why Do Dogs Eat Grass in Cooper City, FL?

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass in Cooper City, FL?

Have you ever seen your dog eat grass in Cooper City and wonder why that is? Many people think that the dog is sick or deprived of a certain nutrient in their food, but this is usually not the case.

Why do dogs eat grass in Cooper City, FL

Dogs eating grass is quite common and it has been observed by both domestic and wild animals for generations and is not always a cause for alarm.

Most grass eating is harmless and most veterinarians in Cooper City, FL consider it normal dog behavior. Grass is by far the most common plant eaten by dogs and there are several reasons why.

Common Misconceptions About Why Dogs Eat Grass in Cooper City

Some common misconceptions for why dogs eat grass include:

They’re Feeling Sick

It is known that most pet owners think that the reason why their dog’s eating grass is because they’re feeling ill or sick and therefore trying to make their stomach feel better. There is no proof that this is the case. In fact, fewer than 10% of dogs seem to be sick before eating grass.

It Helps with Their Overall Health

Other ideas suggest that eating grass aids in digestion, treats intestinal worms, or fulfills some unmet nutritional value such as fiber. Some dogs in Cooper City just like the way the grass tastes and feels.

If you think your dog is eating grass from a deficiency in his diet, try changing his food to a more high fiber diet.

Boredom

If you think that a reason why your dog is eating grass is because it is bored, make sure your pet is getting plenty of exercise. Go toss the frisbee or give him plenty of toys to play with.

Can Grass Eating Be Harmful to Your Dog in Cooper City?

Most grass eating is harmless, but some lawns contain pesticides and toxins that are on the lawn that could harm your pet if ingested. If your dog is a grass grazer, make sure there are no chemicals on your lawn or any of your plants in the yard.

If you suspect that your dog has ingested harmful grass with toxins contact your veterinarian in Cooper City immediately or call your local animal poison control center.

When Can Grass Eating Be a Sign of an Underlying Issue for Dogs in Cooper City?

While most grass digestion is normal, there are a few signs that it might be more serious and you need to think about taking the dog to the vet in Cooper City. If your dog seriously increases his grass intake there may be a more serious underlying issue.

Look for these signs below that could indicate that there’s a more serious reason why your dog is eating grass:

These might suggest underlying GI issues and a veterinarian would need to properly diagnose them by running some much needed tests. Gastric reflux, inflammatory bowel disease or pancreatitis is included in these issues so make sure you get your dog to the vet if you suspect there might be an underlying issue for why they’re eating grass.

Dogs need roughage in their diets and grass is a good source of roughage and fiber. If your dog seems to be eating a lot of grass, he may just simply need more fiber in his diet so switching to a high-fiber diet can often do the trick.

Keeping Your Dog Occupied May Keep Them from Eating Grass in Cooper City

A dog’s day usually stems around what the owner is doing. If you are absent for a period of time and your dog is left unattended in the backyard, he may resort to grazing on grass out of boredom or comfort. If you give your dog a bone or treat to munch on, toys to play with, or anything to stimulate them, this may prevent him from resorting to grass eating.

More active dogs in Cooper City love long walks or play time. Some dogs benefit from other dogs to play with. If you only have one canine, you might consider doggy day care as a means of keeping your dog busy and occupied during the day when you cannot be with him.

Dogs Eating Grass is a Natural Instinct in Cooper City

Dogs in the wild do not consume packaged food. They eat whatever their prey is, which usually contains some form of grass or plant within the animal.

Dogs are not strictly meat eaters, they enjoy plants as well so eating grass can be very normal and part of their prey behavior. On examination of wolves, almost 50% of them show contents of eating grass or plants. Modern domestic dogs do not have to hunt for their food, but it does not eliminate that need to eat grass and plants.

Simply put, dogs enjoy eating grass. They love the taste, smell and texture. Due to this, it’s not uncommon behavior to see your dog eating grass while they’re outside.

Reasons Why it’s Not Best for Your Dog to Eat Grass in Cooper City

While it’s completely normal for your dog to want to eat grass, there are some things to keep in mind as to why this may not be the safest thing for them to do.

Potential reasons why it’s not best for your dog to eat grass include:

The Grass Could Contain Pesticides or Other Toxins

No matter the reason your dog may eat grass, it is really not the best for them as the grass could contain toxins or pesticides put upon the grass. There are many chemicals that are sprayed directly onto lawns to enhance them but they are toxic to pets.

Also, when someone comes to mow the yard, if hired, they may come in bringing a host of problems with them. There may be residue of toxins on the mower that when mowed, spreads into your yard. Your dog comes along and eats the grass after and suddenly there is a problem. You might not think about it as you don’t directly put the toxins on your grass but it goes to show, it can come from other sources.

Grass Could Contain Intestinal Parasites

Another reason that grass is not the best treat or snack for your dog is as dogs go to the bathroom on the grass, their fecal matter can contain intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms or other diseases that can contaminate the grass. Especially if multiple dogs are using the bathroom in the same yard.

The best way to stop your dog from eating grass is by providing treats. Any treat that will get his attention away from eating grass.

Call a Vet in Cooper City for More Information on Why Your Dog’s Eating Grass

Eating grass can be harmless and not cause for alarm, but be aware of things in or on the grass that may harm your pet. If you notice your dog is eating a lot more grass than usual, or that they’re starting to not feel well after eating it, it’s important to contact a veterinarian in Cooper City as soon as possible so your dog can receive the care they need.

At Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital, nothing is more important to us than your pet’s wellbeing. For any questions about why your dog has taken up this behavior, or if you’re looking for additional advice, schedule an appointment with our team any time. We’re always available to help with your pet’s health and will help you determine what’s best for your pet.

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About Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital

Located in Cooper City, FL, we strive to do more than simply be a full-service veterinarian for your pet. Our decades of experience has served generations of families and their beloved pets and we look forward to serving you as well!