Is it a problem if your dog eats bugs and garden critters?
Dogs are well known for their curious and often indiscriminate eating habits, frequently snacking on various bugs, insects, and garden critters they encounter on walks or in the garden. While this behaviour might worry many dog owners, it is not necessarily a cause for alarm in all cases. This article explores when eating such critters is harmless and when it may present a problem, backed by up-to-date veterinary guidance from the UK.
When is it safe for dogs to eat bugs?
Most of the time, the occasional bug your dog gobbles up won’t cause harm. Common insects such as flies, moths, butterflies, ants, and grasshoppers are generally harmless in small amounts. These bugs may be unpalatable or odd-tasting but typically won’t upset your dog’s digestive system.
If a dog does react badly (for instance by vomiting or coughing after eating a bug), they usually recover quickly and without complication. In fact, some insects like crickets even provide a small amount of protein in your dog’s diet. However, responsible owners should still discourage dogs from eating bugs regularly to avoid risks.
Risks from toxic or dangerous insects and critters
Not all bugs are safe. Certain caterpillars and beetles carry toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and even more serious reactions. For example, some brightly coloured caterpillars are poisonous to dogs. If you see your dog playing with these, intervene promptly.
Toads are another garden hazard. Their skin secretes a toxic slime that can cause drooling, lip swelling, and occasionally severe illness if your dog bites or licks them. Sadly, their erratic movements may attract dogs’ attention, so close supervision is advised in gardens where toads are present.
Bees and wasps pose a different kind of threat, as their stings can cause painful swelling to a dog’s muzzle or inside the mouth. In rare cases, dogs may develop a dangerous allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Prevent your dog from snapping at these insects, especially if your dog has had allergies to insect stings before.
Dangers from parasites and chemical exposure
Ingesting bugs may also pose risks of parasitic infections. Slugs and snails commonly carry lungworm larvae, a parasite that can cause severe respiratory distress or even death if left untreated. Lungworm initially causes coughing and poor exercise tolerance, later worsening to serious lung and organ damage. Make sure your dog is regularly protected with vet-advised worming treatments that include lungworm protection.
Slugs and snails also sometimes carry pesticides or slug pellets on their slimy bodies. Dogs eating them may suffer poisoning. Avoid using chemical pest controls in gardens frequented by dogs and opt for natural alternatives instead.
How to protect your dog from bugs and garden critters
- Supervise outdoor time: Keep an eye on your dog, especially in gardens where toxic bugs or toads live.
- Prevent bug exposure: Discourage snapping at flying insects like bees and wasps, which pose sting risks.
- Limit chemical use: Avoid pesticides and slug pellets or use safe, pet-friendly options in your garden.
- Maintain parasite prevention: Regularly use vet-recommended flea, tick and worm treatments, including lungworm prevention.
- Clean up toys and items: Remove or clean outdoor toys regularly to avoid contamination by slimed slugs/snails.
What to do if your dog eats an unsafe bug
If your dog eats a potentially harmful insect or critter—for example a bee, wasp, caterpillar, toad, or slug—watch closely for symptoms like excessive drooling, swelling, vomiting, coughing, difficulty breathing, or signs of severe discomfort.
Seek emergency veterinary advice immediately if your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction or respiratory difficulty following a sting or ingestion.
Summary
While many bugs and garden critters pose no danger to dogs, there are exceptions including toxic caterpillars, toads, stinging insects, parasites like lungworm from slugs/snails, and chemical exposures. Responsible dog owners should supervise outdoor access, avoid chemical pest controls, maintain regular parasite prevention and consult their vet promptly if they notice worrying symptoms after bug ingestion. With careful attention, you can keep your dog safe without undue worry.
