Foxtails and Pokeweed: Two Things We Hope Your Dog Never Meets This Spring/Summer

Summer is one of the best times of year to be a dog. More walks, more adventures, more time outside sniffing absolutely everything.

But while we're all enjoying the sunshine, there are a couple of plants that can cause some real trouble for our pups: foxtails and pokeweed.

Neither is something most dog parents think about until there's a problem, so we wanted to share a quick heads-up before peak summer season arrives.

Foxtails: Tiny but Mighty

If you've ever seen a dry grass seed that looks a little like a wheat stalk, you've probably seen a foxtail.

The problem is that these little seeds are designed by nature to move in only one direction. When they get caught in your dog's fur, they can work their way into the skin, ears, nose, eyes, or between the toes. And unfortunately, they don't just fall back out.

Sadly I have been one of those owners needing veterinary treatment because a tiny foxtail became embedded and caused an infection. It's one of those things that's easy to miss but can become a big issue if left unnoticed.

Places Foxtails Love to Hide

• Between paw pads and toes

• Inside ears

• Around the eyes

• In longer fur and feathering

• Around the nose and mouth

What to Watch For

If your dog suddenly starts:

• Licking a paw nonstop

• Limping

• Shaking their head

• Pawing at an eye

• Sneezing repeatedly

A foxtail could be the culprit.

The good news? A quick check after walks can often catch them before they become a problem.

Meet Pokeweed: The Backyard Plant You Don't Want

Pokeweed is one of those plants that can pop up in yards, along fences, and in natural

areas around Portland.

It grows tall, has large green leaves, and later in the season produces clusters of dark purple berries that honestly look pretty tempting.

Unfortunately, pokeweed and dogs are not a good combination.

Every part of the plant is toxic, including the berries, stems, leaves, and roots. Curious dogs who like to sample things they find outside can end up with an upset stomach or worse.

Signs Your Dog May Have Eaten Pokeweed

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Drooling

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

If you suspect your dog has gotten into pokeweed, it's always worth giving your veterinarian a call.

If You Have Pokeweed in Your Yard

Now is a great time to take a look around your yard and see if any pokeweed is growing.

If you spot it:

• Wear gloves before handling it

• Dig up as much of the root as possible

• Bag and dispose of the plant

• Don't toss it into your compost pile

• Keep an eye on the area for regrowth

Pokeweed can be surprisingly stubborn, so don't be surprised if it tries to make a comeback.

A Quick Walk Check Can Make a Big Difference

We know most dogs would happily spend all day outside exploring every bush, patch of grass, and mysterious smell they can find.

A simple habit of checking paws, ears, and coats after outdoor adventures can help catch things like foxtails before they cause problems. And keeping an eye out for plants like pokeweed can make your backyard a safer place for your pup to play.

We'd much rather spend our summer talking about zoomies, splash pools, and new best friends than emergency vet visits.

Stay safe out there, and give your pup an extra belly rub from all of us at Lil Doggie Den!!