How animals self-medicate

‘Dogs do not have the means to digest grass, as they lack the enzymes needed to break down the fibres,’ explained Vancouver-based vet Dr. Michael Goldberg.

‘Thus, there is little nutritional value in it for them. One reason for eating grass may be due to a feeling of nausea. 

‘It is possible that dogs learn this is a temporary solution for stomach irritation.’

He continued that tests on dogs that have exhibited these behaviours have later revealed inflammatory conditions in their stomachs, as well as signs of gastric reflux or bowel disease.