What to Do If a Dog Sniffs a Foxtail: A Pet Owner’s Guide
Foxtails may appear harmless, but they pose a serious risk to dogs. These tall grasses, common across North America, especially in dry, western climates, produce barbed seeds known as awns. When a dog sniffs or comes in contact with a foxtail, those awns can embed in the skin and enter the body, leading to painful infections and potentially life-threatening conditions.
What Are Foxtails?
Foxtails are grasses with bushy, spiked seed heads that resemble a fox’s tail. Common varieties include:
- Wild barley
- Brome grass
- Millet
- Giant, green, and yellow foxtails
These grasses thrive in fields, roadsides, meadows, and even backyards. Their seeds are hard, oblong, and covered in barbs, which makes them easily attach to fur, skin, or clothing.
Why Are Foxtails Dangerous?
The barbed structure ensures that once embedded, a foxtail awn only moves forward. It cannot back out on its own, allowing it to burrow deeper into tissue as the dog moves. This intrusion can result in:
- Abscesses and infections
- Swelling, discharge, and fever
- Organ damage if the awn migrates internally
- Pneumonia if inhaled into the lungs
Dogs are most at risk during late spring and summer when foxtail plants dry and release seeds. Long-haired dogs and those exploring tall grass are particularly vulnerable.
Symptoms to Watch For After Sniffing a Foxtail
If your dog has sniffed a foxtail, watch out for the following symptoms:
- Frequent sneezing
- Persistent pawing at the nose
- Nasal discharge or bleeding
- Coughing or gagging
- Difficulty breathing
Additionally, depending on the location of the embedded awn, you may see:
- Head shaking or scratching (ears)
- Squinting, pawing at the eye (eyes)
- Redness, swelling between the toes
- Visible wounds that drain pus
Immediate Actions to Take
If the foxtail is only attached to the fur and has
not penetrated the skin, you can:
- Gently remove it with tweezers
- Clean the area with antiseptic
- Monitor for signs of irritation
However, if you suspect a foxtail has entered the nose or any sensitive area, or your dog shows signs of discomfort, consult a veterinarian immediately. Do
not attempt to remove embedded foxtails yourself, especially from the eyes, nose, ears, or genitals. This can fragment the awn and worsen the injury.
Veterinary Treatment and Care
A veterinarian may need to:
- Examine the dog under anesthesia to locate deep-set foxtails
- Surgically remove the awns
- Prescribe antibiotics for infections
- Perform follow-up exams to ensure no fragments remain
Delaying veterinary intervention increases the risk of complications including systemic infections or migration of the foxtail into internal organs.
Prevention Tips
To protect your dog from foxtail hazards, follow these preventive measures:
- Avoid foxtail-prone areas during late spring and summer
- Keep your yard trimmed and free of wild grasses
- Inspect your dog daily, especially after outdoor play
- Check ears, nose, eyes, between toes, and under limbs
- Groom regularly: trim long hair, especially around key areas
- Use dog boots or shoes when walking in high-risk areas
When to See a Vet
Seek veterinary attention immediately if your dog:
- Has sneezing fits or nasal discharge
- Is pawing at the face, ears, or eyes
- Develops a visible wound or abscess
- Shows signs of respiratory distress
Summary
While foxtails are not poisonous, they can cause serious mechanical injury due to their barbed awns. Early detection and prompt veterinary care are essential to prevent severe complications. Prevention—through awareness, grooming, and avoiding high-risk areas—is the best defense.
Always check your dog thoroughly after any outdoor adventure, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet if something seems off. Being proactive could save your pet from pain—and a potentially dangerous situation.
