My puppy eats leaves, will it harm him?
Tuesday November 25, 2003
SKRAPFOX asks: "We have 3 acres, and huge trees that look like they came from a park. We have raked some leaves into a pile, and all the dogs like to wrestle around in it. Well, my new puppy likes to play with the leaves (shake they around, throw them and chase them), and he will also settle down and chew on them when he gets a little tired. I was wondering if eating leaves have a negative effect, and if I should discourage this? I've never had a dog that eats leaves before, and don't know of any side effects, if there is any. Some advice, or an explanation for why he may be doing this would be great!!"
Comments
My dog eats elm leaves, but only the leaves of elm trees. When I search the web I find that this seems to be common among many dogs. I donīt find any answer to why. But one person told me that she encouraged her dog to it and thought her dog was self medicating himself. I donīt know if that was very true. I just find it interesting and wonder why they do this.
My dogs relish elm leaves; the eat them w/much gusto. Why?
I have a standard poodle and an American Eskimo–they both LOVE elm leaves–no craving for other types of grass or tree leaves. No vomiting, great health. Just seems to be something they crave. I used to pull them like weeds but now leave them for the dogs since they enjoy, it seems to be their way of supplementing something–and no adverse effects over several months.
My two English Cockers also love to snack on the Elm leaves during their walk. Also, no throwing up. I figure it feels good in the tummy. (Fisherman’s Friend has a Slippery Elm throat lozenge.) It has a gummy, soapy, slippery texture once you get past the pricky, hairy dry leaf in case you want to try it yourself. They eat long grass for the upset tummy and then you will find the green puddle on the floor later. Huck, Huck, gakk.