Why Do Beagles Eat Grass

Beagles love to go outdoors and get plenty of exercises but have you ever seen your dog eat grass? This is sometimes a horrifying experience for pet parents because their dog eats the grass then somehow manages to vomit it all up. This less than pleasant scene often scares pet parents into believing something is wrong with their dog. This usually sparks an emergency visit to the veterinarian office or local animal hospital. If this has happened to you and you are wondering why your dog eats grass, the following information will help you understand the meaning of the mystery. 

Let's explore the fact that your dog's ancestors were wild dogs that lived off the land. It's difficult for pet owners to remember that their sweet domesticated dog comes from ancestors that lived in the wild on their own. Eating grass is your Beagle’s natural instinct. There are a variety of reasons dogs eat grass such as digestive issues, boredom, and flavor. The first time you notice your dog is eating grass, observe the environment and his recent behavior. If your dog just woke up from a nap and is eating grass on his walk, chances are he might have an upset stomach or just feels like nibbling on something tasty. Perhaps, your dog is just bored and feels like chewing on some yummy grass? Since your dog can’t talk it’s up to you as his pet parent to determine the cause of him eating grass. 

As you put your investigative skills to work, the scariest result is your dog has digestive issues and an upset stomach. Grass contains beneficial ingredients that help ease digestive issues. However, the grass is also very difficult for dogs to digest which is why they often vomit up the entire amount they attempted to consume. If your dog eats grass on a regular basis, it could be a sign that essential nutrients and vitamins are missing from his diet. This is why it’s important to determine the cause of this natural behavior. If you are not able to determine the cause on your own, it’s wise to involve a veterinarian for professional assistance regarding the matter. Eating grass is a common behavior that often comes naturally to dogs with an upset stomach. It is not a cause for concern unless the behavior is excessive and there are other signs of illness such as lack of appetite and persistent vomiting or diarrhea.

Encouraging the behavior is not necessary since it’s a natural instinct. However, discouraging the behavior is necessary if your dog is exposed to grass that is treated with pesticides that are considered toxic to dogs. If your lawn is treated with pesticides and other chemicals you need to take action quickly in two areas. First, if your dog consumed grass that was treated with pesticides and is showing symptoms of illness you need to rush him to the animal hospital or local veterinarian immediately. The pesticides can cause internal damage to dogs that can lead to serious illness or death.

The second action you need to take is to stop using chemicals on your lawn. This does not mean you have to let your yard grow wild with weeds and allow the insects to destroy your entire garden, it only means you need to use pet-safe lawn products. There are numerous products on the market that are natural and pet safe that will make your lawn look amazing. Taking action quickly is essential to your dog’s health. If he continues the behavior and you would like to prevent the behavior from happening in the future you can take a few extra helpful steps. 

Watching your dog eat grass and vomit it up right in front of you is not easy to watch. The sound alone can make any pet parent quiver. If you want to prevent your dog from eating grass, you can take him for a walk in areas where there are less grass and temptation. Sidewalks and driveways are popular choices to avoid grassy areas. You can also train your dog not to eat grass by using specific techniques aimed at stopping the behavior. A professional trainer will be useful in this area since the behavior is natural and driven by instinct. 

Vomiting grass is not the worst thing your dog can do. Chances are he has done worse around the house and yard, like digging holes for no reason and damaging your rose garden. This natural behavior is harmless, common, and natural. As a pet parent, you should be proud of your dog for tapping into his natural instinct to heal.