Foxtails: Utah's Hidden Danger for Dogs

If you live in Utah, you know our state has lots of trails and open spaces. They’re great for walks with your pup. But watch out for foxtails. These dried grass seeds look like no big deal. They sway in the wind like tall grass. But they can cause big problems. From May to December, foxtails send more dogs to emergency vets than almost anything else. Let’s talk about why they’re so risky and how to keep your dog safe.

What Are Foxtails and Why Are They Bad?

Foxtails are seed heads from a type of grass. They grow along paths, in fields, and even in empty lots. You see them from Salt Lake City down to St. George. The problem? They have sharp barbs. These barbs stick to fur or skin. Once stuck, they don’t come out easy. They burrow deeper and deeper. It’s like a one-way trip inside your dog’s body.

Dogs love to sniff and run through grass. That’s how foxtails get in. They can cause pain, swelling, and even infections. In dry weather, foxtails break off easily and become extra dangerous. Utah’s hot summers make this a big issue every year.

I remember one dog who came to us at Train Walk Poop. He had a foxtail in his paw. He limped for a few days before his owner noticed. A quick vet trip fixed it, but it could have been worse. Don’t let this happen to your pup!

Where Do Foxtails Usually Get In?

Here are the common places:

• Between Toes and Paw Pads: This is the top spot. Your dog steps on them while walking. Soon, they limp or chew at their feet. The area swells and hurts.
• Inside Ears: Dogs pick them up while sniffing in tall grass. Foxtails slip in. Signs? Non-stop head shaking or tilting. Your dog might whine or scratch a lot.
• Nose: Curious sniffers pick up foxtails here. It leads to big sneezing fits. Your dog might sneeze 10 times or more in a row. Their nose could bleed or swell.

Foxtails can also hide in armpits, the belly, or groin. Long fur makes it easier for them to stick. Check these spots after every outdoor trip.

How to Check Your Dog for Foxtails

After a walk or hike, always inspect your dog. It takes just a few minutes. Here’s how:

• Paws and Toes: Spread the toes apart. Look between pads. Use a flashlight if it’s dark. Feel for lumps or seeds.
• Ears: Shine a light inside. Look for anything stuck. Don’t poke deep – just check what you can see.
• Other Areas: Run your hands over armpits, belly, and groin. Part the fur. Feel for bumps.

Do this right after coming home. If you find a foxtail, pull it out gently with tweezers. If it’s deep or your dog yelps, stop and call the vet.

When Should You Go to the Vet?

Not all foxtails come out easy. Some need a doctor’s help. Rush to the vet if you see these signs:

• Sudden, hard sneezing that won’t stop (like 10+ times fast).
• One eye swollen shut or your dog squinting a lot.
• Head tilting or constant ear scratching.
• A wound that keeps oozing or smells bad.
• A foxtail you can’t fully remove.

Don’t wait. Foxtails will keep moving deeper and get more infected with time.

One story from our clients: A dog sniffed a foxtail up his nose. He sneezed more and more each day and was starting to whine with pain. The vet found it and was able to easily remove it. 

Simple Tips to Prevent Foxtail Problems

You can’t avoid all grass, but you can be smart. Here are easy ways to protect your dog:

• Stay on Clear Paths: Walk on trails without tall, dry grass. Skip weedy areas.
• Groom for Safety: Trim long fur on paws and ears in summer. Short hair means fewer places for foxtails to hide.
• Carry Tools: Keep tweezers in your bag or car. Check your dog after every outing.
  
• Yard Care: Mow your lawn short. Pull out foxtail plants if you see them.
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Why This Matters for Utah Dog Owners

Utah’s dry weather makes foxtails common. Our trails are full of them. Dogs love the outdoors, so you will run into these pesky plants. But with care, you can enjoy hikes safely.

If your dog needs training to stay safe on walks, we’re here. At Train Walk Poop, we help with all dog training needs. From puppy classes to boot camps, we keep tails wagging.

Stay safe out there!

Your friends at Train Walk Poop