How to spot and treat grass seeds on dog fur

One of the most fun things to do with your dog is to go on a long walk. However, there are some hazards to look out for. 

For example, in the summertime grass seeds can cause problems when they become stuck to your dog’s fur, ears, eyes, or paws. Usually the seeds can be easily removed, but if they pierce the skin you’ll need to seek treatment from your vet. 

Key points:

• Grass seeds are sharp seeds found in long grass during the summer that can easily cling to a dog’s fur, paws, ears and eyes. 

• Common symptoms include persistent licking, paw-chewing, limping and frequent sneezing.

• Help to protect your dog by avoiding areas with long grass and keeping their fur trimmed.

• Surface seeds can be gently brushed away at home, but embedded seeds may require attention from the vet. 

• Grass seed injuries are usually covered and treated as accidental injury as standard with John Lewis Pet Insurance. 

Let’s take a look at some of the important things you need to know about grass seed and dogs. 

What are grass seeds and why do they matter to dogs? 

Grass seeds are the small, sharp seeds that are found at the ends of long grass. They’re especially common in the summer months when they’re released from the stem of the plant to pollinate surrounding areas. 

Their small size makes them almost invisible to the naked eye. This can be a big part of what makes them so troublesome. Their pointy, barbed structures latch on to dogs’ fur undetected when brushed against, stepped on, or rolled in. When you’re out with your dog in the summer, it’s good to be mindful of where you might encounter grass seeds. They are typically found in areas with long grass, including meadows, parks and woodlands. 

The seeds themselves are relatively harmless, but they become a problem when their sharp ends pierce the skin of your dog’s fur. If a grass seed has become lodged in the skin of your dog, you’ll need to visit your vet who will safely remove it. In very rare cases, a grass seed can become embedded under a dog’s skin. Then it can be much harder for a vet to extract, as they don’t always show up on x-rays. However, in the majority of cases, the seed can be quickly and safely removed. 

What are the signs of grass seeds affecting your dog?

You may be able to spot a grass seed that’s attached itself to your dog and if so, you should be able to remove it yourself. But if it’s become embedded somewhere on the dog’s body, it can be harder to detect due to its small size. Grass seeds are painful for dogs when they’re in a paw or their fur. 

Your pet may show some of the following behaviours: 

• Limping or constantly shaking their head 

• Repeatedly licking an area such as a paw or between their toes 

• Swelling or redness on a paw 

• Pawing at an ear repeatedly 

• Frequent sneezing 

• Sore, red, swollen, or oozing eyes 

• Licking or chewing a sore area of skin 

If you do spot any of these signs, you’ll need to book a trip to the vet. 

How to protect dogs from grass seed injury 

There are many ways to help keep your dog safe and to minimise the risk of grass seed injuries. Here are some tips that could help protect your dog: 

• Brush down your dog’s fur after a walk and if you spot any grass seeds, remove them straight away. 

• If you can, try to avoid taking your dog to areas where there is very long grass. 

• Keep your dog’s fur regularly trimmed, especially around their eyes, ears, and paws. 

What treatments are offered for dogs injured by grass seeds? 

You may not easily or safely be able to pull out a grass seed from your pet or it may have started to burrow into your dog’s skin. If this is the case, you’ll need to take your dog to the vet. A vet can use special tweezers to safely remove the seed and give you advice on any further treatment needed. In very rare cases, the dog may need to be sedated if the removal is going to be very painful. 

Grass seed injuries are very common, especially for dogs with longer fur, and the sooner they're treated the better. If a grass seed is left, it can cause a dog a lot of pain and cause further problems if it manages to travel under your dog’s skin. 

Are grass seed injuries covered by pet insurance? 

If you do find yourself booking a trip to the vet because your dog has a grass seed lodged in its fur or skin, charges will vary. However, if you already have a pet insurance policy in place, grass seed injuries are usually covered and treated as accidental injury as standard with John Lewis Pet Insurance. The policy also includes access to a 24-hour vetfone™ helpline.

Looking for pet insurance? 

Get a quote online from John Lewis Pet Insurance for comprehensive lifetime cover, when you renew with no break in cover.

John Lewis Pet Insurance is arranged, administered and underwritten by Pinnacle Insurance Ltd.

This article is for promotional or information purposes only. You must not rely on it as advice.