Why Are Grass Seeds a Problem for Dogs?

Certain grass seeds, sometimes called grass awns, have pointed tips and tiny backward-facing barbs. These allow them to attach easily to fur and, in some cases, work their way into the skin.


Once embedded, grass awns in dogs may continue moving deeper rather than naturally working their way back out.


Dogs that run through long, dry grass are particularly exposed, although any dog can pick them up. Dogs with long or thick coats may also make seeds harder to spot.


Common areas to check include:

  • Between the toes and paw pads
  • Inside and around the ears
  • Around the eyes
  • Armpits and groin
  • Nose and mouth
  • Under the collar
  • Anywhere with thick or matted fur


When Is Grass Seed Season in New Zealand?

Grass seeds tend to become more noticeable during the warmer months as grasses mature and dry out. Depending on your region and weather conditions, exposure may increase from late spring through summer and into early autumn.


During grass seed season in New Zealand, be particularly cautious around long, dry grass, overgrown reserves, paddocks and track edges.


You don't necessarily need to avoid outdoor adventures. A quick check after each walk can make a significant difference.


For more general outdoor safety tips, read this.



Grass Seed Symptoms in Dogs

Symptoms vary depending on where the seed has become trapped.


Common grass seed symptoms in dogs include:

  • Persistent licking or chewing
  • Sudden limping
  • Swelling or redness
  • Head shaking
  • Scratching at an ear
  • Sneezing repeatedly
  • Rubbing the face or eye
  • Sudden sensitivity when touched
  • A small wound or discharge
  • Unusual discomfort after a walk

Sometimes there may be no visible seed, particularly if it has already entered the skin.


Knowing your dog's normal behaviour can help you notice these subtle changes. For more guidance, see:
https://www.petnsur.co.nz/blog/how-to-tell-if-your-dog-is-in-pain/



Grass Seed in a Dog's Paw

A grass seed in a dog paw is one of the more common places owners may encounter this problem.


Seeds can lodge between the toes, around the paw pads or underneath the skin.


You might notice your dog suddenly licking one paw, limping or becoming reluctant to put weight on it. There may also be redness, swelling or a small lump between the toes.


After walking through long grass, gently inspect each paw and between the toes. If you can clearly see a loose seed sitting on the surface of the fur, it can usually be carefully removed.


However, if the seed appears embedded, the area is swollen or your dog is uncomfortable, contact your vet rather than digging into the paw yourself.



Grass Seed in a Dog's Ear

A grass seed in a dog ear can cause sudden and noticeable irritation.


Signs can include:

  • Repeated head shaking
  • Scratching one ear
  • Holding the head to one side
  • Sensitivity around the ear
  • Redness or discharge
  • Sudden distress after being outdoors

Avoid inserting tweezers, cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal. It can be difficult to tell how deeply a seed has travelled, and attempting to remove it yourself may push it further inside or damage the ear.


A veterinarian can examine the ear safely and determine the best way to remove the seed.



Grass Seeds in the Eyes, Nose and Skin

Paws and ears aren't the only areas at risk.


A seed near the eye may cause squinting, excessive tearing, redness or repeated rubbing of the face. Eye problems should be assessed promptly because irritation and damage can worsen quickly.


If a seed enters the nose, you may notice sudden, repeated sneezing or nasal irritation.


Seeds can also penetrate the skin and become difficult to see. Owners may initially notice only excessive licking, a tender area, swelling or a small wound.


Not every red or irritated area is caused by a grass seed. Allergies and other skin conditions can produce similar symptoms. Learn more here.



How to Remove Grass Seeds From Dogs Safely

If you're wondering how to remove grass seeds from dogs, the answer depends on where the seed is located.


A loose seed caught on the surface of the coat can generally be removed gently with your fingers or appropriate grooming tools.


After walks, you can also:

  • Brush through your dog's coat
  • Inspect between each toe
  • Check around and underneath the ears
  • Look around the armpits and groin
  • Check around the eyes and face
  • Remove visible loose seeds before they become tangled

The important distinction is between a loose seed and an embedded one.


Don't dig, squeeze or probe for a grass seed that has entered the skin or become lodged somewhere you cannot clearly see. If you're unsure where it is, or your dog is showing ongoing discomfort, arrange a veterinary assessment.



When Should You See a Vet?

Contact your vet if your dog continues licking, limping, sneezing, shaking their head or showing discomfort after being around grass seeds.


Veterinary attention is also recommended if:

  • You suspect a seed is embedded
  • There is swelling or discharge
  • The seed may be inside an ear
  • Your dog's eye is affected
  • Your dog appears to be in significant pain
  • Symptoms continue even though you cannot find anything

Early assessment may make removal easier and reduce the chance of complications.



Prevention Is Often the Simplest Approach

You can't remove every grass seed from your dog's environment, but a few habits can reduce the risk.


During warmer months, check your dog after walks, keep long fur around the paws appropriately groomed and pay extra attention after exploring dry or overgrown areas.


Regular checks are a simple form of preventative care and can also help you notice other lumps, injuries or skin changes earlier.


Read more about preventative pet care here.



Enjoy Summer Adventures — With a Quick Check Afterwards

Grass seeds in dogs are a seasonal hazard, but they don't need to stop you and your dog enjoying the outdoors.


A quick post-walk check of the paws, ears, coat, face and skin can help catch loose seeds before they cause trouble. If your dog suddenly begins limping, licking, head shaking, sneezing or showing discomfort, don't ignore the change — particularly if you've recently been around long or dry grass.


Unexpected veterinary treatment can also arise despite careful prevention, so planning ahead can make those situations easier to manage.


Learn more about Pet-n-Sur dog insurance.


Already insured and need information about making a pet insurance claim?
https://www.petnsur.co.nz/claims/