It is common to observe a dog eating grass in the garden or during a walk. And no, they are not trying to become vegan! This behavior, called “self-purification” or “purging,” is actually a natural way for dogs to alleviate some digestive problems. So it's important to let them go.

Dogs purge themselves by consuming plants, usually grass, which often cause vomiting. The insoluble fibers in the grass irritate the dog's stomach, triggering the gag reflex and thus helping the animal to get rid of unwanted substances or foreign objects.

It is essential to note that dogs are not able to digest grass, and it is precisely this characteristic that helps them to purge themselves. In some cases, a dog can also purge itself by consuming soil or bark for example.

There are several reasons why a dog may purge itself:

• to relieve indigestion caused by eating foods that are inappropriate or difficult to digest.
• to get rid of substances that irritate their stomachs, thereby reducing nausea and vomiting.
• to expel intestinal parasites and improve their digestive comfort.
• Although dogs are mainly carnivores, they can sometimes try to make up for possible nutritional deficiencies by consuming plants.

Purging is a natural self-regulatory mechanism for dogs. It allows them to relieve their digestive discomfort and to prevent complications resulting from the ingestion of unwanted substances or foreign bodies. However, if you notice that your dog is purging frequently, it is important to see a veterinarian to rule out the presence of underlying health conditions.

While purging is a natural behavior for dogs, it is essential to carefully monitor their environment and diet to minimize risks. Make sure your dog does not have access to toxic plants or harmful substances, such as pesticides, when purging. Also, be sure to provide him with a balanced and quality diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies.