The Risks of Grass Seeds in Dogs
Across all of our veterinary practices, we often see dogs in discomfort caused by grass seeds.
Grass seeds are a common issue for dogs, especially during the warmer months from June to October, when grasses like foxtails and meadow grasses shed their seeds.
Local parks, such as Richmond Park, Ham Common, and various of other known green spaces in London provide plenty of natural environments where dogs may come into contact with these seeds. They can easily become embedded in paws, ears, eyes, or fur, leading to irritation, infection, or more serious complications.
If left untreated, they can cause immense discomfort, infections, and even serious health complications. Grass seed is a hidden danger every pet owner should be aware of, which is why we believe in educating owners on the risks associated with grass seeds in dogs.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
- Where grass seeds can affect a dog
- Recommended prevention strategies
- Actions owners can take
- When to contact your vet
- Treatment recommendations
What do grass seeds look like?
Grass seeds are small and pointed and they often have a barbed structure which allows them to easily attach to a dog’s fur. They can burrow into the skin using their sharp tips and fine bristles.
Where can grass seeds affect a dog?
Dogs are particularly vulnerable outdoors, where grass seeds can latch onto their coats and migrate into various parts of the body – especially those with long, feathered coats and floppy ears (such as Spaniels) however, any breed can be affected.
The most common entry points include:
Grass seeds in your dog’s ears
Seeds can enter the ear canal, causing head shaking, infections, and discomfort. If left, they may migrate deeper toward the eardrum, making removal and recovery more complex.
Grass seeds in your dog’s paw
They can sneakily lodge between the toes causing pain, swelling, infection, abscesses, lameness.
Grass seeds in your dog’s eyes
These seeds can become stuck under the eyelids, causing irritation and redness that could lead to potential corneal damage if not treated.
Grass seeds in your dog’s nose
If your dog inhales a grass seed, symptoms may include persistent sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing, pawing at the nose, or sudden nosebleeds.
If it’s not removed, it can migrate deeper into the nasal passages or lungs, causing severe infections, breathing difficulties, and potential abscess formation requiring veterinary intervention.
Can a dog sneeze out a grass seed?
Yes, a dog may sometimes sneeze out a grass seed if it is loose in the nasal passages.
You can encourage a dog to sneeze out a grass seed by gently massaging their nose, allowing them to sniff something mildly irritating like pepper (in a safe amount), or taking them into a steamy room to help loosen the seed.
If sneezing persists or worsens, seek veterinary help immediately.
Grass seeds in your dog’s skin and coat
If it embeds into the skin, it can lead to painful swellings, infections, or more severe complications if it ends up migrating internally.
Less common entry points
Grass seeds can also enter through the vulva, armpits, or other skin folds.
Due to their barbed shape and tendency to migrate, they can be extremely difficult to detect – often not visible on X-rays – and can be challenging to remove even with surgery.
Want to learn more about where to check your dog for grass seed?
Explore our infographic to learn the key areas to check on your dog after walks as early detection can help prevent serious issue.
Discover more in our handy infographic >
How to prevent grass seeds in dogs
There are several proactive steps you can take to prevent a grass seed infection in your dog.
Maintain a regular grooming routine
Keeping your dog’s coat neatly trimmed, especially around the ears, paws, and armpits, can reduce the risk of seeds getting caught.
Steer clear of areas with tall grass
Choose walking routes wisely to minimise exposure to environments where grass seeds are abundant.
Thoroughly check your dog after walks
Pay close attention to key areas such as the fur, ears, paws, and spaces between the toes to remove any grass seeds before they cause problems.
Consider protective accessories
If your dog has long ears or is prone to picking up debris, using protective boots or a snood can help keep them safe in high-risk areas.
What can owners do if they find a grass seed in their dog?
If you spot a grass seed in your dog’s fur, skin, ear, or paw you should remove it before it has the chance to cause additional damage and embed into the skin or body further.
You can carefully pluck the grass seed out using tweezers at home if it is lodged in the fur or between the toes. However, we recommend seeking veterinary advice if you notice any swelling or redness, or if your pet shows signs of pain or discomfort.
When to contact your vet
We recommend getting in touch with us if you notice:
- Persistent shaking of the head or pawing at the ears
- Limping, swelling, or a visible wound between toes.
- Red, watery or swollen eyes
- Frequent sneezing or nasal discharge
- Signs of pain, such as excessive licking, whimpering, or sudden behavioural changes.
Treatment for grass seeds
Treatment depends on severity and location. Options may include:
- Manual removal with specialised tools
- Sedation to allow safe and precise retrieval
- Antibiotics for infection control
- Pain relief and wound care instructions
- Advanced imaging (CT scans) if the seed isn’t easily located
- Repeated procedures, in rare cases, for recurring or migrating seeds
Though these can be frustrating cases, especially in dogs prone to repeat incidents. Early treatment improves outcomes significantly.
Can grass seeds kill dogs?
Yes, grass seeds can be dangerous and, in rare cases, fatal if they migrate into vital organs such as the lungs, heart, or brain, leading to severe infections, abscesses, or life-threatening complications.
Finley’s Story
Poor Finley, the Cocker Spaniel, came to see our lovely vet Harriett after his owner noticed head shaking and discharge from his right ear.
On examination, Harriett discovered a grass seed lodged deep in Finley’s ear. Due to the soreness, Finley was sedated to ensure the seed could be removed safely and pain-free.
To our surprise, two grass seeds were extracted! The seeds had caused irritation and infection in the ear canal. Finley’s ear was thoroughly cleaned and treated, and he went home feeling much better.
Thanks to quick action by Finley’s owner, we were able to prevent further complications.
If you’re unsure about your pet’s symptoms, don’t wait. It’s always better to be safe — early treatment prevents complications and saves your dog from unnecessary discomfort.
