Labradors eat grass for several reasons: to settle an upset stomach, to add fiber to their diet, or simply because they enjoy the taste and texture. This behavior, called pica, is common in dogs and usually harmless. Most Labradors eat grass occasionally without any underlying health problem. However, if your Labrador eats grass frequently, vomits repeatedly afterward, or shows signs of distress, you should consult a veterinarian to rule out nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal issues, or parasites.
Is grass eating normal for Labradors?
Yes. Grass eating is normal canine behavior observed across all breeds, but Labradors seem particularly prone to it because of their food-motivated nature and tendency to explore the world with their mouths. Studies show that up to 79% of dogs eat plants at some point, with grass being the most common choice.
Your Labrador is not broken or sick just because they munch on lawn grass during walks. Dogs are opportunistic omnivores, and their wild ancestors consumed plant material regularly, either directly or through the stomach contents of prey animals.
Why Labradors specifically eat grass
Labradors were bred as working retrievers with strong foraging instincts. They use their mouths to investigate everything, from sticks to shoes to grass. This breed also has a reputation for overeating and scavenging, which can lead to digestive upset that grass eating may temporarily relieve.
Some Labradors eat grass because their diet lacks fiber. Commercial kibble is calorie-dense but may not provide enough roughage. Grass adds bulk to stool and can help dogs feel fuller. If your Labrador targets specific types of grass or eats it at certain times of day, they may be self-medicating for mild nausea or digestive discomfort.
Boredom also plays a role. Labradors need significant mental and physical stimulation. A dog left alone in the yard may eat grass simply to pass the time or relieve anxiety.
When grass eating becomes a problem
Most dogs do not vomit after eating grass. If your Labrador vomits every time they eat grass, or eats grass compulsively and then throws up, this suggests a deeper issue. Possible causes include inflammatory bowel disease, gastritis, pancreatitis, or intestinal parasites like giardia or roundworms.
Frequent grass eating combined with other symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, or blood in stool requires a vet visit. Your veterinarian can run fecal tests, blood panels, and imaging to identify the root cause.
Eating grass treated with pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers poses a toxicity risk. Labradors are indiscriminate eaters and will consume chemically treated grass without hesitation. Signs of poisoning include drooling, tremors, difficulty breathing, and collapse. If you suspect your dog ingested toxic chemicals, contact an emergency vet immediately.
How to reduce grass eating
If the behavior bothers you or happens excessively, try these steps:
Switch to a higher-fiber dog food or add plain canned pumpkin, green beans, or sweet potato to meals. Fiber improves digestion and may reduce the urge to seek roughage elsewhere.
Increase exercise and mental enrichment. A tired Labrador is less likely to eat grass out of boredom. Use puzzle feeders, scent games, and longer walks to keep them engaged.
Offer safe chewing alternatives like bully sticks, raw carrots, or frozen Kongs. Labradors need to chew, and redirecting that energy to appropriate items helps.
Train a “leave it” command and reinforce it during walks. Reward your dog for ignoring grass with treats or praise.
If your yard has patchy or stressed grass, your dog may be targeting it because it smells or tastes different. Maintain your lawn and avoid chemical treatments if your Labrador grazes regularly.
Related questions
Can eating grass hurt my Labrador?
Grass itself is not toxic, but grass treated with chemicals or contaminated with feces from other animals can cause illness. Long, fibrous grass can also tangle in the digestive tract, though this is rare.
Should I stop my Labrador from eating grass?
Not necessarily. If your dog eats small amounts occasionally and shows no symptoms of distress, it is harmless. Monitor the behavior and intervene only if it becomes compulsive or is paired with vomiting or other health changes.
Do Labradors eat grass because they are missing nutrients?
Possibly. Diets low in fiber or certain vitamins may drive dogs to seek out plant material. A balanced, high-quality dog food formulated for Labradors should meet their nutritional needs. If you suspect a deficiency, ask your vet about dietary adjustments or supplements.
Why does my Labrador eat grass and then throw up?
Some dogs eat grass to induce vomiting when they feel nauseous. However, most dogs do not vomit after eating grass. If vomiting happens consistently, it points to an underlying digestive issue that needs veterinary attention.
Is it safe to let my Labrador eat grass every day?
Daily grass eating is not inherently dangerous, but it is worth investigating why the behavior occurs so frequently. Check that your dog’s diet is adequate, their environment is stimulating, and no medical conditions are present.
