As a dog trainer in Melbourne, I’ve seen first hand the stress and discomfort grass seeds can cause dogs and their owners. These tiny, barbed seeds may seem harmless, but they can burrow into a dog’s skin, ears, eyes, or paws—leading to pain, infection, and even surgery. 
Grass seeds are especially common in warmer months when dogs are more likely to be out and about, running through long grass. They latch onto your dog’s coat, then work their way into the skin. In my experience, the paws, underarms, and ears are the most common trouble spots.
One of my clients thought her dog was just limping from a long walk, but it turned out to be a grass seed embedded deep between her pup’s toes. That incident reminded me just how sneaky and dangerous these little seeds can be.
Warning Signs
Keep an eye out for:
- Excessive licking or chewing at paws
- Head shaking or ear scratching
- Sudden limping
- Swelling or discharge from a sore
If your dog shows these signs, consult your vet immediately. Left untreated, a grass seed can travel under the skin and cause serious issues.
How to Prevent Grass Seed Trouble
- Regular Grooming: Especially if your dog has a long or thick coat.
- Post-Walk Checks: Always check between toes, underarms, ears and around the eyes.
- Avoid Long Grass: Stick to mown paths and clear parks when possible.
- Consider Protective Gear: Boots or suits for sensitive dogs or high-risk areas.
As someone working in dog training near me in Melbourne, I often incorporate safe walking habits into our sessions. Training your dog to calmly accept paw checks and grooming can make prevention easier and safer for everyone involved.
These grass seeds can easily latch onto dogs’ fur and pawsFor more detailed veterinary insight, the Greencross Vets provide helpful advice on grass seed prevention and removal.
Final Thought
I always say prevention is the best protection. Teaching your dog to tolerate handling, especially around sensitive areas like paws and ears, is a skill that pays off. If you’re in Melbourne and looking for dog training near me, I’d be happy to help guide you and your dog toward safer, happier adventures.
Written by Emilia Borkowski
09.06.25
Images credited to: Ayla Verschueren, Zahra Hosseini and Ryan Stone