In partnership with

Keep Grass In the Ground — Not In Pup’s Mouth

Dogs have quirky habits, and munching on grass or chomping into dirt can be puzzling — and sometimes concerning — for pet parents. If your furry friend has taken a liking to these earthy snacks, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Let’s explore why dogs indulge in these behaviors and how you can gently curb them.

Sit & Stay Pro Tip — YUCK Those Earthy Snacks Away

Why Do Dogs Eat Grass and Dirt? 

Dogs turn to grass and dirt for several reasons, ranging from natural instincts to potential health concerns. Some dogs do it out of boredom or curiosity, while others might be trying to soothe an upset stomach or fill a nutritional gap. In some cases, the behavior is purely habitual.

Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation 

One common reason dogs munch on grass or dig into dirt is boredom. Ensure your dog is getting plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and puzzle toys can work wonders in keeping their mind and body engaged.

Offer a Balanced Diet 

Sometimes, dogs turn to grass and dirt to compensate for missing nutrients. Ensure your pup eats a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Consult with your vet if you suspect your dog might need a supplement.

Create a Safe Outdoor Space 

If your dog tends to snack on grass during outdoor time, consider creating a designated "safe zone" with clean grass or non-toxic plants. This way, you can redirect their attention and still let them enjoy the outdoors.

Teach the "Leave It" Command 

Training your dog to respond to the "leave it" command can be incredibly helpful in stopping unwanted behaviors. Practice with treats and praise to reinforce the behavior, and soon, your pup will learn that grass and dirt aren’t on the menu.

Rule Out Medical Issues 

If the behavior persists or seems excessive, it’s best to check in with your vet. Underlying health issues, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or dietary deficiencies, could be driving your dog to seek relief through grass and dirt.

Be Consistent

As with any behavior modification, patience is key. Avoid scolding your dog — instead, redirect their attention with toys, treats, or engaging activities. Over time, your dog will learn healthier habits with consistency and understanding.

Every dog is unique, so what works for one may not work for another. The key is approaching the behavior with love and curiosity, helping your pup feel safe, stimulated, and cared for. With a little patience and guidance, you can turn those grassy snacks back into happy, healthy outdoor adventures.

Could you pay $10,000 for a pet emergency?

Unexpected vet bills can be a financial burden, with some procedures costing $10,000+. Without coverage, you’d have to cover these expenses out of pocket.

Pet insurance companies can offer up to 90% reimbursement for covered claims, providing peace of mind and protection against expensive medical bills.

Don’t let unexpected vet bills stress you out. Protect your pet and your finances with top-rated pet insurance.

PROTECT YOUR PET

Like newsletters? Here are some newsletters our readers also enjoy. Explore

Dog Food and Supplement Recalls

Here are the recent recalls and advisories:

• Wild Coast Raw - Frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats for possible bird flu exposure.

• Blue Ridge Beef - Natural Mix for potential salmonella.

• Blue Ridge Beef - Puppy Mix for potential salmonella.

• Hollywood Feed - Carolina Made Chicken Chips Dog Treats for potential salmonella.

The Smile Section

If you have a photo and/or story that can make us smile, send it to [email protected].

Vet Recommendation — Dietary Insufficiencies

Sometimes, dogs eat things like dirt and grass to make up for something they’re lacking in their diet. Dirt eating, for example, can point to iron, sodium, and calcium deficiencies. Since soil has these minerals, the dog receives them from the dirt instead of their food.

Treats

• 🐶 Best in Show!: Read all about the Italian whippet that won the Crufts dog show!

• ✍️ We’re donating $4500 worth of food to an animal shelter! And the winning nominator gets $500, too!

Want your dog to be featured?

We’d love to!

Think your dog can make us smile? Submit a pic to [email protected] with your dog’s name and reference Sit & Stay for a chance to see your pet in our Smile Section!

These cannabis gummies keep selling out in 2025

If you've ever struggled to enjoy cannabis due to the harshness of smoking or vaping, you're not alone. That’s why these new cannabis gummies caught our eye.

Mood is an online dispensary that has invented a “joint within a gummy” that’s extremely potent yet federally-legal. Their gummies are formulated to tap into the human body’s endocannabinoid system.

Although this system was discovered in the 1990’s, farmers and scientists at Mood were among the first to figure out how to tap into it with cannabis gummies. Just 1 of their rapid onset THC gummies can get you feeling right within 5 minutes!

Order Now