Dog owners are all too familiar with the potential hazards we face when we’re in the great outdoors, whether your pet is licking a strange-coloured puddle or investigating a rather old animal carcass. However, sometimes dangers lurk where we least expect them, even in your garden.
One such unlikely problem is the humble grass seed, which is capable of causing significant harm to our beloved pets. As the warmer months are – hopefully – on their way, we’ll explore why they pose a threat to dogs, how to recognise if your dog is affected, available treatments and steps you can take to minimise the risks.
What are grass seeds?
When we talk about grass seeds, this could refer to those you use for sowing or patching your lawn or the seed heads of various grasses commonly found in parks and natural landscapes. They’re often found in meadows and woodland during the summer months, and they are a problem to dogs because they can easily brush off into their fur during walks.
Grass seeds have very sharp, pointy ends, so although they’re tiny, if they become trapped in your dog’s fur, they can burrow down and pierce their skin. They can also get stuck in your dog’s paws, ears, eyes or nose. If your dog becomes injured by a grass seed, it can be very painful.
Are grass seeds dangerous for dogs?
While seemingly innocuous, grass seeds have barbed structures that allow them to easily penetrate fur, skin, and even mucous membranes.
Once embedded, they can travel deeper into a dog’s body, causing a range of health issues such as infections, abscesses, and even organ damage if left untreated.
All dogs are potentially vulnerable to grass seeds, but some breeds are particularly susceptible because of their coat type and habits.
Breeds with longer, thicker coats – such as some types of retrievers, spaniels, and terriers – are at higher risk as their fur provides plenty of opportunity for seeds to become trapped.
Dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in grassy areas, are also more likely to encounter these seeds.
The ways grass seeds can enter a dog
Grass seeds can enter a dog’s body in several ways:
- The skin – in areas like the paws, in between the toes.
- The ears – especially in breeds with floppy ears.
- The nose – inhaling a grass seed while sniffing the ground.
- The eyes – getting caught under the eyelids.
- The mouth, throat, stomach or intestines – by swallowing a grass seed.
Grass seed symptoms in dogs
The symptoms your dog shows will often depend on where the grass seed has entered the body.
Grass seeds in dogs may seem small, but they can cause big problems if not caught early.
Here are some common signs of grass seeds in dogs to watch for, based on the affected area:
- Grass seed in dogs’ paw or skin: You may notice excessive licking or chewing, limping, swelling, redness, or discharge. Sometimes there’s a small puncture wound, but in more serious cases, it can lead to a grass seed abscess (a painful, pus-filled lump) or cyst that doesn’t go away.
- Grass seed in dogs’ ear: Your dog may shake their head, scratch at the ear, or show signs of pain or sensitivity to touch. In some cases, you might notice a foul smell or discharge as it can lead to a serious ear infection if left untreated.
- Grass seed in dogs’ eye: Signs include redness, excessive tearing, squinting, visible irritation, or your dog pawing at their face. It can cause significant discomfort and may lead to eye damage if not quickly removed.
- Dog inhaled grass seed: Look for frequent sneezing, nasal discharge, nosebleeds, or pawing at the nose. In more serious cases, the seed may migrate deeper into the respiratory tract and cause ongoing breathing issues.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to book a vet appointment with our team immediately.
Prompt treatment not only prevents more serious complications but also helps your dog recover quickly and comfortably.
Treatment for dogs with grass seeds
Treatment for grass seed-related problems varies depending on the severity and location of the seed.
In less severe cases, your vet may be able to remove the seed manually and prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
If the seed has migrated deeper into the body or caused complications, such as abscesses or pneumonia, surgical intervention may be necessary. If your dog has inhaled a grass seed it may require specialised procedures to locate and remove them safely.
Can I remove the grass seed in my dog at home?
In some very superficial cases (such as a seed stuck in the outer fur) you may be able to gently remove the grass seed with tweezers.
If the grass seed has pierced the skin, entered the ear, eye, nose, or paw, or is causing swelling or discomfort, do not attempt to remove it at home.
Improper removal can push the seed deeper or cause further damage. It’s safest to have our veterinary team examine and remove it properly to avoid infection or complications.
Can a dog sneeze out a grass seed?
It’s possible but uncommon. If a grass seed is only loosely lodged in the nasal passages, a dog might sneeze it out.
More often than not, the grass seed becomes embedded and may travel deeper into the nasal cavity or even into the lungs, causing ongoing sneezing, nosebleeds, or respiratory distress.
Persistent sneezing after being in grassy areas is a sign you should come in and see us at the practice.
The costs of grass seed removal from dogs
The cost can vary depending on the location of the grass seed and how deeply it’s embedded.
For minor cases where no sedation or imaging is needed, removal may cost around £40 to £100.
If the grass seed in your dog has lodged in areas like the ear, paw, or nose and requires sedation, endoscopy, or surgery, the cost can rise to £200 to £800 or more.
Catching the problem early can help keep costs down and reduce the risk of complications.
Our case study on dog seed removal
Here’s a video of a procedure we performed on a dog called Bramble. Bramble started coughing after running in the fields.
When she was brought in, a grass seed was found in her right lung. This video shows the successful removal by Sarah, one of our vets, and she was assisted by Rowan, one of our nurses.
How to avoid grass seeds in dogs?
While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks associated with grass seeds, there are some simple steps you can take to minimise the chances of your dog encountering them.
- Keep your dog’s coat well-maintained, especially during grass seed season.
- Be mindful of where you walk your dog, particularly in areas with long grasses and other seed-bearing plants.
- After outdoor activities, inspect your dog’s coat, paws, ears and nose for any signs of grass seeds.
Grass seeds may seem innocuous, but they can pose a significant threat to our canine companions.
By understanding the risks of dogs and grass seeds, recognising the symptoms, seeking prompt care and taking preventative measures, we can better protect them from the potential harm these tiny seeds can inflict.
If you think your dog may be suffering because of grass seeds, contact us to book a consultation.
