Understanding Foxtails: Why They're Dangerous for Dogs
Foxtails might look harmless—just another wild grass waving in the breeze—but for dogs, these barbed seeds can spell real trouble. Let’s explore what foxtails are, where they lurk, and why they’re so risky for our canine companions.
What Are Foxtails?
Foxtails refer to several types of tall grasses that produce clusters of sharp, barbed seeds called awns. These seed heads resemble a fox’s tail—bushy and spiked—which is how they got their name. You’ll find foxtail grasses across North America, especially in dry western regions, but they’re common in open fields, roadsides, meadows, fence rows, and vacant lots all over the country. Some well-known varieties include brome, barley, millet, and species like Giant, Green, and Yellow foxtail.
The real danger lies in the structure of the seed: each one is hard and oblong with tiny barbs that let it cling to fur or clothing. Once attached to an animal or person, these awns only move forward—they won’t back out on their own.
How Do Foxtails Harm Dogs?
Dogs love to run through tall grass and sniff around outdoors. Unfortunately, this puts them right in the path of foxtails. The seeds stick easily to fur and can work their way into sensitive areas such as:
- Between the toes
- Inside the ears
- Up the nose
- In the eyes or mouth
Once a foxtail attaches itself to your dog’s coat or skin, its barbs drive it deeper into tissue with every movement. This can lead to irritation at first—but as the awn burrows further in (and it always moves forward), it causes swelling, infection, abscesses, and sometimes even reaches vital organs. The seeds can carry bacteria deep under the skin or into body cavities where they form abscesses or trigger severe infections.
Dangers and Complications
The risks aren’t just skin-deep. If a dog inhales a foxtail up its nose or mouth—or if one gets lodged in an ear canal—the seed can migrate internally. In rare cases, inhaled foxtails reach the lungs and cause pneumonia or other life-threatening infections.
Common signs your dog may have encountered a foxtail include:
- Persistent licking or chewing at one spot (especially paws)
- Redness or swelling between toes
- Head shaking or scratching at ears
- Sneezing or pawing at the nose
- Pawing at eyes; squinting; eye discharge
- Visible wounds or abscesses
If you notice serious symptoms—like difficulty breathing, gagging/coughing, bleeding from an opening (nose/ear), extreme pain when touched near a suspected area—or any sign of internal infection (such as fever or lethargy), get to your veterinarian right away.
Treatment: What To Do If Your Dog Gets a Foxtail
If you spot a foxtail on your dog’s fur before it penetrates the skin, you can carefully remove it with tweezers. But if it’s already embedded—or if it’s in a sensitive area like an eye, ear canal, nose, or genitals—don’t try to remove it yourself. Attempting this could break off part of the awn inside your dog’s body and make things worse.
- If you see a surface-level foxtail: Remove gently with tweezers.
- If any part is under the skin or in a sensitive spot: Seek veterinary care immediately.
- Your vet may need anesthesia and minor surgery to remove deeply embedded seeds safely.
- If there’s infection present: Antibiotics may be prescribed after removal.
Prevention: Keeping Dogs Safe From Foxtails
The best way to protect your dog is by avoiding exposure during peak seasons (late spring through summer) when foxtail plants dry out and release their seeds. Here are some practical tips:
- Avoid walking dogs through overgrown grass during late spring/summer.
- Mow lawns regularly; rake up and dispose of seed heads promptly.
- After outdoor playtime—especially in risky areas—inspect your dog thoroughly: check between toes; look inside ears; examine around eyes/nose/mouth; feel along belly and armpits for hidden awns.
- Trim long hair between toes and around ears for easier detection.
- If you must walk through high-risk areas: Consider using dog boots/shoes as extra protection.
When To Call Your Veterinarian
If your dog shows any signs of discomfort after being outside—persistent licking/chewing at paws; head shaking; sneezing fits; squinting/pawing at eyes; swelling—you should call your vet without delay. Early intervention prevents more serious problems down the line.
The Bottom Line on Foxtails & Dogs
Foxtails aren’t poisonous—but their mechanical design makes them extremely hazardous for dogs. Once embedded in tissue they don’t come out easily on their own—and left untreated they can cause severe pain or even life-threatening illness. Prevention is key: avoid overgrown grassy areas during high-risk months; groom regularly; inspect after every outdoor adventure—and seek prompt veterinary help if you suspect trouble from these pesky barbed seeds.
