Golden Retriever (Detailed Introduction)

　　Sometimes when taking dogs to the grass to walk, once off the leash they enthusiastically chew the grass. Actually, dog owners don’t need to panic when dogs eat grass; after reading the article below, you will understand why dogs eat grass. Of course, avoid letting dogs contact grass treated with pesticides.

　　1. Dogs generally eat grass, why? Here are several reasons:

　　1. Wild canines like wolves and foxes hunt small animals, which are usually herbivores; thus, when wild canines consume these animals, they also ingest large amounts of grass and plants from their intestines.

　　2. It is generally known that dogs eat certain types of berries and plants.

　　3. Some dogs just love eating grass or certain plants. For example, Beagles often find and devour raspberries before their owners do. So why do dogs eat grass? In fact, this is part of their diet.

　　2. Vomiting after eating grass: Dogs often vomit after eating grass. Is it because they want to vomit and therefore eat grass, or do they vomit because they eat grass? This is like the chicken-and-egg question. However, some dogs indeed seek grass when their stomachs feel uncomfortable.

　　3. This is normal dog behavior:

　　Generally speaking, eating grass is a basic and normal behavior for dogs. Unless they eat an excessive amount, there is no need to worry. Eating grass is an innate instinct in dogs. There are two main reasons: One is for healing, because dogs naturally have the ability to synthesize vitamin C by themselves, so they do not need extra vitamin C intake. But sometimes dogs lose this ability. Due to this loss, they cannot produce vitamin C on their own, which lowers their immunity to viruses.

　　Therefore, they will eat grass to supplement vitamin C. Also, when dogs feel unwell, they will seek to eat plant roots containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is also the raw material for our aspirin production. The second reason is that grass tastes good. Wild dogs, wolves, and foxes will eat tasty plants and fruits even if they are not sick, especially those that are low and sweet.

　　Modern urban dogs eating grass do not necessarily indicate health problems. Most are because dogs eat only tasteless and nutritionally empty food like instant noodles. To satisfy their cravings, dogs will almost eat anything flavorful. The reason: dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths. Grass gives off aroma, has an exciting texture, and is everywhere, so why not try it? In ancient times, dogs didn’t have the opportunity to enjoy carefully prepared meals and had to forage through weeds, plant roots, and stems.
Sometimes dogs also like some green foods, just like we occasionally dream of delicious mashed potatoes. Dogs are omnivores, and eating grass satisfies their nutritional needs. Although dog food now provides complete nutrition, dogs instinctively like to have some fresh green "salad" regularly. Even dogs that rarely eat grass will chew grass when feeling unwell, as if grass contains some emetic substance.
　　Countermeasure: Keep grassy areas clean.

　　Grass itself does not harm dogs, but dirt or chemicals in the grass can be dangerous. If the grass is unusually bright green, it is likely treated with some chemical agents. Make sure dogs avoid these areas. Some veterinarians believe dogs that love to eat grass need more fiber in their food and suggest mixing vegetables with their meat.