This week, Dr. Manley answers a question about a reader's dog who eats grass.

This week's question:
Dear Dr. Manley,
Every once in awhile my dog will eat a bit of grass and then vomit a few minutes later. Why do they do this? I have heard that they actually do it on purpose because they aren't feeling well and they know the grass will make they vomit. Are dogs really that smart?

Thank you so much for your help!
Molly W.
Tulsa, OK

Dr. Manley's Reply:
Hi again Molly,
Dogs are not strict carnivores. They require at least the fiber provided by vegetables in their diet. As predators they preyed upon grass eating animals, devouring their victim's rumen or cecum (parts of the digestive tract that helped these animals digest fiber). We do not know if dogs eat grass to vomit, or vomit because they ate grass. The body will seek nutrient that it needs. Offer your pet fresh vegetables (avoid onions, avocado, grapes and raisins) to provide natural fiber. See your veterinarian if your pet is vomiting once each week or more.

Thanks for the question....Dr. Manley

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Dr. Cleveland Manley, Jr. is one of the wonderful veterinarians at VCA Pet Doctor in Richardson, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University - College of Veterinary Medicine.

DallasDogLife wants to remind our readers that Dr. Manley does his best to answer your questions with the information that he is given, but cannot always provide the best diagnosis for your dog without an office visit. If your dog ever appears to be in pain or shows signs of serious illness, take him or her to your vet IMMEDIATELY.