Grass seeds in dogs: ears, paws and eyes
Grass seeds in dogs are a common warm-weather problem, and they can cause serious harm if they work their way under the skin. If your dog suddenly shakes their head, licks a paw, sneezes repeatedly or has a red, weepy eye after a walk, a grass seed could be the cause. See your vet promptly, because seeds can travel deeper into the body.
Why grass seeds are dangerous for dogs
Grass seeds are sharp and pointed, and many have barbs that only move one way: forward. Once a seed catches in your dog’s fur, it can push into the skin, ear canal, nose or eye. The Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) warns that seeds can migrate through the body to the lungs, bladder, brain and spinal cord.
Common problem grasses on Australia’s east coast include spear grass, barley grass and wild oats, according to SASH.
When grass seeds are most common
Grass seeds are most common in the warmer and wetter months, when grasses grow long and dry off. Late spring and summer are peak times for many parts of Australia.
Signs of grass seeds in dogs
The signs depend on where the seed has lodged. SASH lists:
| Where | Signs to watch for |
|---|---|
| Ears | Head shaking, head tilt, scratching at the ear |
| Paws and skin | Licking, swelling, pain, a weeping or bloody spot, limping |
| Eyes | Redness, swelling, discharge, squinting |
| Nose | Sudden sneezing, nasal discharge or bleeding, pawing at the face |
| Lungs (if a seed has travelled) | Coughing, fever, tiredness, abnormal breathing |
Which dogs are most at risk?
Any dog can get grass seeds, but SASH notes that dogs with medium-length coats are most likely to trap them. Dogs that run through long grass or bush are at higher risk.
What to do if you think your dog has a grass seed
- Check your dog all over. Look between the toes, in and around the ears, around the eyes and in the armpits and groin.
- Remove seeds caught on the surface of the fur only. If a seed is sitting loosely in the coat, you can brush it out.
- Don’t dig for seeds. If a seed has gone into the skin, ear, eye or nose, leave it and see your vet. Pulling at it can break it or push it deeper.
- See your vet promptly. Grass seeds rarely come out on their own and can travel further over time.
How vets remove grass seeds
Your vet will examine your dog and remove the seed. Some dogs need sedation so this can be done safely. SASH notes that seeds that have travelled under the skin usually need imaging to find them, and surgery to remove them.
How to prevent grass seeds in dogs
- Check your dog after every walk through grass, especially paws and ears.
- Brush medium and long coats often in spring and summer.
- Keep paw fur and ear fur trimmed short. Ask your groomer for a summer clip.
- Keep your lawn short and avoid long, dry grass on walks.
Summer brings other risks too. Read our guide to heatstroke in dogs.
FAQ
Can a grass seed come out on its own?
Sometimes a seed sitting in the fur falls out, but seeds that have gone into the skin, ear, eye or nose rarely come out on their own. See your vet rather than waiting.
Why does my dog keep shaking its head after a walk?
Sudden head shaking after a walk can be a sign of a grass seed in the ear. Don’t put anything in the ear. See your vet so they can check the ear canal.
Can grass seeds kill a dog?
Rarely, but seeds that travel to the lungs, chest or spine can cause serious infections. That’s why it’s important to see your vet early.
How do I check my dog for grass seeds?
Run your hands over your dog’s whole body after a walk. Spread the toes and check between the pads, look inside the ear flaps and check around the eyes, armpits and groin.
Be ready for the unexpected
Grass seed removal can need sedation, scans or surgery. Find out how dog insurance could help with unexpected vet bills.
Sources
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet. If you think your dog has a grass seed, contact your vet.