If you've ever watched your beloved Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle stop mid-walk to munch on a patch of grass, you're not alone. Many dog owners, including those with hypoallergenic breeds, are curious about this habit and wonder, "Why do dogs eat grass?". At Fox Creek Farm, we've raised and cared for generations of healthy, happy dogs, and we've seen that this behavior is surprisingly common—often completely normal.

While it can seem odd to see your dog eating something that's not part of their usual diet, this grass-snacking behavior is deeply rooted in canine instincts. Understanding why dogs eat grass can help you know when it's harmless and when it might be a signal that something else is going on.

Is It Normal for Dogs to Eat Grass?

Yes—dogs eating grass is not only normal, it's incredibly common across all breeds and sizes. From playful Goldendoodle puppies to gentle Bernedoodle adults, dogs sometimes enjoy nibbling on greenery. For most dogs, this is simply a part of their natural behavior and not a cause for concern.

In fact, many veterinarians consider occasional grass-eating to be a harmless canine quirk. Some dogs eat grass because it tastes appealing, others do it out of curiosity, and a few may use it as a way to settle their stomach. Whatever the reason, knowing more about why this happens will help you decide whether your dog's behavior is something to watch—or just a charming part of their personality.

Possible Reasons Why Dogs Eat Grass

While every dog is unique, there are several common explanations for why dogs eat grass. Understanding these can give you peace of mind and help you decide if any action is needed.

1. Instinctual Behavior

Long before dogs became our companions, their wild ancestors survived on a varied diet that included plants. Eating grass was part of a natural balance—adding roughage and aiding digestion. Today's Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles may not need to hunt for their meals, but some of those ancestral habits remain. For many dogs, eating grass is simply a carryover from their instincts.

2. Nutritional Needs

In some cases, dogs eating grass may be looking for something missing from their diet. Grass contains fiber, which can help maintain healthy digestion. If a dog's diet is lacking in fiber or other nutrients, they might instinctively seek it out in plant form. At Fox Creek Farm, we provide balanced, high-quality nutrition, but even the healthiest dogs may occasionally seek an extra crunch from the yard.

3. Digestive Aid

One of the most common beliefs about why dogs eat grass is that it helps relieve mild stomach upset. Some dogs may vomit after eating grass, while others show no ill effects at all. The connection between grass-eating and nausea isn't fully understood, but for some dogs, it may simply help move things along in their digestive system.

4. Boredom or Anxiety

Just like people who snack when they're bored, some dogs turn to grass as a way to pass the time. If a Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle isn't getting enough mental stimulation or physical exercise, grass-nibbling might become their go-to activity. Increasing playtime, adding interactive toys, or introducing new training exercises can help keep their attention away from the lawn.

Should You Be Concerned About Dogs Eating Grass?

In most cases, grass-eating in dogs is completely harmless. Many Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles enjoy the occasional mouthful of grass without any negative effects. However, there are situations where this behavior could point to an underlying issue.

You should pay closer attention if your dog:

• Eats grass obsessively or every time they go outside
• Vomits frequently after eating grass
• Shows additional symptoms like diarrhea, loss of appetite, or lethargy
• Seems unusually anxious or restless

While eating grass isn't always a sign of illness, changes in your dog's habits can be worth mentioning to your veterinarian—especially if the behavior appears suddenly or intensifies.

Is Grass-Eating Safe for Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles?

For most healthy, well-cared-for dogs, including the hypoallergenic Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles from Fox Creek, nibbling grass now and then isn't dangerous. The bigger risk comes from what might be on the grass.

Potential hazards include:

• Pesticides and herbicides – Many lawn treatments are toxic to dogs.
• Fertilizers – Even organic varieties can cause stomach upset if ingested in large amounts.
• Toxic plants – Some ornamental plants and weeds are poisonous to dogs.

If your dog enjoys grazing, it's safest to limit their grass-eating to areas you know are chemical-free and free of harmful plants. A fenced yard with untreated grass is ideal.

How to Discourage Excessive Grass Eating

If your Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle is eating grass more than occasionally, you can gently redirect the habit with a few simple strategies:

• Increase daily exercise and mental stimulation – Play fetch, go for longer walks, or introduce puzzle toys.
• Review their diet – Ensure they're getting enough fiber and a balance of nutrients.
• Offer safe chewing alternatives – Dental chews, rubber toys, or frozen treats can satisfy chewing urges.
• Supervise outdoor time – Guide them away from treated lawns or unsafe plants.

Often, simply meeting your dog's physical and mental needs can reduce grass-eating significantly.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

Grass-eating is rarely an emergency, but it's time to contact your veterinarian if your dog:

• Eats grass daily or in large amounts
• Vomits repeatedly or has ongoing diarrhea
• Shows changes in appetite or weight
• Appears lethargic or in discomfort

A veterinarian can rule out underlying issues such as nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal problems, or stress-related behaviors.

Conclusion: A Quirky Yet Common Habit

At Fox Creek Farm, we know that even the healthiest, happiest dogs can have habits that puzzle their owners. Eating grass is often just a harmless quirk, part of a dog's natural instincts. The key is to monitor your Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle for any changes, ensure they have a safe environment, and keep their diet balanced. With attentive care, grass-nibbling can remain just another charming part of their personality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs eat grass when they're not sick?
Some dogs simply enjoy the taste or texture of grass—it's not always linked to illness.

Do hypoallergenic dogs eat grass less often?
No. Grass-eating is a behavior that can occur in any breed, including hypoallergenic Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles.

Can grass-eating cause health problems?
Usually no, but it can be risky if the grass is treated with chemicals or contains toxic plants.

Should I stop my dog from eating grass?
If the grass is untreated and your dog is healthy, occasional nibbling is fine. If they eat excessively, try providing more exercise, stimulation, and dietary balance.

Why does my Goldendoodle eat grass more in spring?
Fresh, tender grass may be more appealing in spring, and increased outdoor time can make grazing more tempting.