I'm a vet and here's what it really means when your dog eats grass – and it's not what you think | The Sun

A PROFESSIONAL vet has revealed what seeing your dog munch on grass actually means – so, should you be concerned?

The 26th August is International Dog Day, and in celebration of furry friends worldwide, veterinary expert Dr Linda Simon at pet wellness brand Pooch & Mutt has debunked some of the most common myths and misconceptions about our four-legged friends.

Our four-legged friends like to munch on virtually everything in their sight, and green grass is no exception.

For the most part, owners assume that this usually means their dog is sick.

But is this true and should you be concerned or rush to the clinic if you spot the pet chewing grass?

Well, according to the expert, there is no need for worries.

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''This is not always the case! 

''Yes, it is true that sometimes when a dog feels nauseous or has excess stomach acid, they may eat grass to induce vomiting, but eating grass doesn't always mean they feel unwell,'' explained Dr Linda.

According to her, there is a much more simple reason behind your puppy munching away on your lush lawn.

''During the summer months, the grass actually just tastes nice to our pooches, so they will often eat it simply because they enjoy it.''

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A survey of 1,500 dog owners found that close to 70% said that their dogs ate plants every day, or at least once a week, and this behaviour was found to be especially common in younger dogs, The Kennel Club reported.

They also added that whilst it’s unlikely that they’ll get much nutrition from it, for an otherwise healthy dog that is regularly wormed, eating grass is unlikely to be something to be worried about.

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Nonetheless, there are things to be wary of, the experts reminded.

''However, dogs should never be allowed to eat grass that has been treated with fertilisers, herbicides or pesticides.

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''There’s also a risk that slugs or snails that have travelled over the grass could infect your dog with lungworm.

''If your dog is eating grass excessively, is regularly sick, or is showing signs of other health issues, then you should always speak to your vet,'' they advised.

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