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Foxtails may look like harmless grass seeds, but they can pose a serious danger to dogs. These barbed seed heads easily attach to fur and can work their way into your dog’s skin, ears, eyes, nose, or paws.
If left unnoticed, foxtails can cause painful infections and sometimes require veterinary treatment to remove. The good news is that a quick check after walks can help catch them early.
Here’s how to check your dog for foxtails after spending time outdoors.
What Are Foxtails?
Foxtails are the seed heads of certain types of grasses that become dry and brittle in the warmer months. Their sharp, barbed shape allows them to cling easily to fur, clothing, and even skin.
Once attached, foxtails can continue moving forward into the body but cannot move backward, which is why they can become so dangerous for dogs.
They are commonly found in:
- Dry grassy fields
- Hiking trails
- Roadsides
- Parks and open spaces
- Untended yards
Why Foxtails Are Dangerous for Dogs
Because of their shape, foxtails can burrow into a dog’s body. If they enter through the skin or natural openings, they may cause infections, swelling, or abscesses.
Common areas where foxtails become embedded include:
- Between the toes
- Inside the ears
- Around the eyes
- In the nose
- Under the collar or armpits
Checking your dog soon after walks helps prevent them from becoming embedded.
Step-by-Step: How to Check Your Dog for Foxtails
After outdoor time, take a few minutes to inspect your dog.
1. Check the Paws First
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Foxtails often lodge between the toes or paw pads.
Gently spread your dog’s toes and look for:
- Small grass seeds
- Redness or swelling
- Excessive licking of the paws
Remove loose foxtails carefully with your fingers or tweezers.
2. Inspect the Ears
Foxtails can easily slip into a dog’s ears, especially for dogs that run through tall grass.
Look for signs such as:
- Head shaking
- Pawing at the ears
- Sudden discomfort
If you suspect something is inside the ear, avoid trying to remove it yourself and contact your veterinarian.
3. Look Around the Eyes
Foxtails can get trapped in the fur around a dog’s eyes.
Check for:
- Redness
- Squinting
- Watery eyes
- Excess blinking
If a foxtail becomes stuck in the eye area, veterinary care is often needed.
4. Check the Nose
Some dogs sniff through grass and may inhale a foxtail.
Warning signs include:
- Sudden sneezing
- Pawing at the nose
- Nasal discharge
Persistent sneezing after a walk may be a sign a foxtail has entered the nasal passage.
5. Run Your Hands Over the Coat
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Finally, run your hands slowly over your dog’s entire body.
Pay special attention to:
- Armpits
- Under the collar
- Around the tail
- Long fur or feathering
Brushing your dog regularly can also help remove foxtails before they become embedded.
Signs Your Dog May Have a Foxtail Injury
Even if you didn’t notice one right away, symptoms may appear later.
Watch for:
- Swelling or redness
- Limping
- Persistent licking or chewing
- Sneezing fits
- Ear shaking
If you notice these symptoms, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Preventing Foxtail Problems
While it’s difficult to avoid foxtails completely, a few precautions can help reduce the risk.
Helpful tips include:
- Avoid walking through tall, dry grass
- Keep your yard trimmed and maintained
- Check your dog after outdoor activities
- Brush long-haired dogs regularly
A quick check after walks can make a big difference in preventing injuries.
Keeping Your Dog Safe During Foxtail Season
Foxtails are a common hazard in many areas during spring and summer, but with a little awareness, you can help protect your dog.
Taking just a few minutes to check your dog after walks can catch foxtails before they become a painful problem. Regular inspections, grooming, and avoiding high-risk areas can go a long way in keeping your dog happy and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Foxtails and Dogs
What do foxtails look like?
Foxtails are the seed heads of certain grasses that resemble a small, bushy fox’s tail. They are typically tan or light brown and have sharp barbs that allow them to stick easily to fur and clothing.
These grasses often grow in dry fields, along roadsides, hiking trails, and in untended yards.
Can I remove a foxtail from my dog myself?
If the foxtail is loose and resting on the surface of your dog’s fur, you can gently remove it with your fingers or tweezers.
However, if the foxtail has become embedded in the skin, paw, ear, nose, or eye area, it’s best to contact your veterinarian. Attempting to remove a deeply embedded foxtail at home may push it further into the tissue and cause complications.
What happens if a foxtail gets stuck in a dog?
Because of their barbed shape, foxtails can move deeper into a dog’s body once they become embedded. This may lead to infections, swelling, pain, or abscesses.
In some cases, veterinary care may be needed to safely remove the foxtail and treat the affected area.
When are foxtails most common?
Foxtails are most common in late spring, summer, and early fall when grasses dry out and produce seed heads.
During these months, it’s especially important to check your dog after walks in grassy areas.
What are the signs a dog may have a foxtail?
Signs that a dog may have a foxtail include:
- Persistent sneezing
- Limping or paw licking
- Head shaking
- Swelling or redness
- Sudden irritation around the eyes
If you notice these symptoms after your dog has been outdoors, it’s a good idea to contact your veterinarian.
How can I prevent foxtails from affecting my dog?
While it may not be possible to avoid foxtails completely, a few precautions can help reduce the risk:
- Avoid walking through tall or dry grass
- Keep your yard trimmed and maintained
- Brush and check your dog after outdoor activities
- Pay close attention to paws, ears, and long fur
Regular checks after walks can help catch foxtails before they become a problem.
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