PupkeeperCaution
Are grass awns (foxtails) toxic to dogs? Caution
Caution. Barbed grass seeds can burrow into paws, ears, noses and eyes, causing infections and abscesses, and can travel deeper into the body.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
Grass awns (foxtails) and dogs: key facts
What should I do if my dog ate grass awns (foxtails)?
- Call your vet now.
- Only remove seeds you can see sitting on the skin surface.
- Go to a vet right away if your dog has trouble breathing.
- Check paws, nose, ears, armpits and groin after walks.
Don't
- Don't try to pull out a seed that is partly buried; it can be pushed deeper.
Symptoms to watch for
- Licking one spot or swelling between the toes
- Limping
- Red or draining sore that won't heal
- Sudden sneezing or nasal discharge
- Head tilting
- Pawing at a runny eye
Why
Foxtails and other grass awns have barbs that let them move only forward, so once embedded they work their way in. Inhaled seeds can reach the lungs or brain.
Sources
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.