Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!

It’s a classic doggo move: you’re out for a walk, enjoying the sunshine, and suddenly – chomp, chomp, chomp – your furry friend is enthusiastically munching on a patch of grass. For many of us, it’s a curious quirk, but for some pups, this seemingly innocent habit can lead to an upset tummy and a less-than-happy tail.

One of the biggest concerns when our dogs graze is what might be on or in the grass itself.

Pesticides, Herbicides, and Fertilizers

Our beautiful, manicured lawns often come with a hidden cost. Many homeowners and public spaces use chemicals to keep weeds at bay and grass looking lush. While these products are designed to be "lawn-safe," they are absolutely not dog-safe. Ingesting these substances can lead to a range of symptoms from mild stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea) to more serious neurological issues or even organ damage, depending on the type and concentration of the chemical. Always be mindful of recently treated areas, and if in doubt, steer clear!

Parasites: Unwanted Hitchhikers

Just like us, dogs can pick up unwanted guests from their environment. Grass, especially in areas frequented by other animals, can harbor the eggs or larvae of various intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or whipworms. If your dog ingests contaminated grass, they can become infected, leading to digestive issues, nutrient deficiencies, and overall poor health. Regular deworming, as recommended by your vet, is key to preventing these sneaky invaders.

While dogs aren't herbivores, some theories suggest they eat grass when they feel nauseous, attempting to induce vomiting. And sometimes, it works! But for others, the act of eating grass can actually cause digestive upset, rather than cure it.

Indigestible Fiber

Grass is largely made up of cellulose, a tough fiber that a dog's digestive system isn't well-equipped to break down. While a little bit might pass through harmlessly, consuming larger quantities can be irritating to the stomach and intestines. This can lead to indigestion, vomiting, or even, in very rare cases, a blockage, particularly in smaller dogs or those prone to gastrointestinal issues.

Sometimes, a dog might eat grass and simply not be able to "pass" it easily. The long blades can tickle the throat, leading to a gagging reflex or repeated attempts to vomit that can be distressing for both dog and owner, even if no underlying illness is present.

Though less frequent, some dogs can develop allergies to certain types of grass. Just like humans can get hay fever, dogs can experience allergic reactions to environmental allergens. This might manifest not only as skin irritation and itching but also, occasionally, as digestive upset.

If your dog occasionally nibbles on grass and seems perfectly fine, there's usually no need to fret. It's a common behavior, and often, it's just that – a behavior!

However, if you notice any of the following after a grass-eating session, it's time to pay close attention and perhaps consult your veterinarian:

While a bit of green grazing is often just a peculiar pup habit, understanding these potential pitfalls can help us be more mindful and ensure our four-legged family members stay healthy, happy, and free from unnecessary tummy troubles!

Prevent Choking with the Bow Wow Buddy

Give your dog the joy of chewing without the worry. The innovative Bow Wow Buddy from Bow Wow Labs is engineered to securely hold bully sticks and other chews, preventing those dangerous last few inches from becoming a choking hazard. Now you can relax, knowing your furry friend can safely enjoy every delicious bite while also promoting healthy teeth and gums. Experience true peace of mind with Bow Wow Labs – where safe chewing is a happy chewing.

Check out the Bow Wow Buddy!

POP-Topper is a premium daily supplement for medium-to-large dogs, developed by animal scientists in New Zealand. Clean superfoods like green-lipped mussels, bilberry, and bone broth support joint, immune, and brain health—without fillers or additives.

Try POP-Topper—$49/Month (30 servings)

Here are the recent recalls and advisories:

🐶 Refer 10 people: We will donate a box of treats to an animal rescue 🐶

🐶 Refer 50 people: We will donate a bag of dog food to an animal rescue 🐶

🛏 Refer 100 people: We will donate a dog bed to an animal rescue 🛏

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Sources:

Dog of the day: IG parsnipthecorgi

Meme of the day: IG aussieyuki