Why is my dog scratching after being in long grass?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your dog is scratching after being in long grass, the most common reasons are grass seeds or awns caught in the coat, bites from ticks or other insects, or simple skin irritation from plants and debris. In many cases it’s a short-lived issue, but it’s worth checking your dog carefully because small things caught in the coat can be very irritating.

Long grass can also hide ticks, so it’s sensible to do a quick inspection after walks or time outside. That doesn’t mean every scratch is caused by a parasite, but it does mean a careful look can help you spot the likely cause early.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the scratching started soon after your dog was in long grass or whether it keeps happening later in the day.

2. Look closely through the coat for grass seeds, bits of plant material, burrs or other debris that may be stuck in the fur.

3. Run your hands over the skin and coat to feel for small lumps, bumps or a tick that may be easier to feel than see.

4. Check the ears, armpits, belly, groin, between the toes and around the tail base, as these areas often trap irritants.

5. Look for redness, broken skin, swelling, scabs or a sore patch where your dog has been scratching.

6. See whether your dog is licking, biting, rubbing or shaking as well as scratching, since that can point to irritation rather than just a one-off itch.

7. Check for any sign of a tick, especially if your dog has been through overgrown or damp grass.

Common Causes

Grass seeds and other plant bits are a very common cause. They can lodge in the coat or skin and make a dog scratch, lick or rub at the area.

Ticks are another possibility, particularly after time in long grass. A tick may irritate the skin where it attaches, and some dogs react more strongly than others.

Other biting insects can also cause temporary itching, especially in warmer weather or in areas where grass is long and damp.

Simple skin irritation is also possible. Long grass can brush the skin, especially if your dog has a thinner coat or sensitive skin.

Less commonly, the timing may be coincidence and the scratching may be linked to an underlying skin issue that becomes more noticeable after exercise or outdoor time.

What To Do

Start by checking the coat carefully, especially around the feet, ears, belly and under the tail. If you find loose debris, remove it gently if you can do so safely.

Brush your dog after walks through long grass, particularly if the coat is long or feathered. This can help you spot anything trapped before it causes more irritation.

If the skin looks mildly pink but otherwise fine, keep an eye on it for the next 24 hours and try to stop further rubbing or scratching if you can.

Wash muddy or grassy areas if needed using a gentle dog-safe routine, then dry the coat well so you can check the skin properly.

If you find a tick and you’re unsure how to remove it safely, or if the area looks sore afterwards, it’s sensible to ask your vet for advice.

Products That May Help

If your dog often picks up grass, dirt or bits of debris after walks, a simple grooming and cleaning routine may help you check the coat more easily and keep on top of skin and paw care at home.

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