Spring is finally here! After a long winter of muddy walks and cosy cuddles indoors, it's time to enjoy lighter evenings, blooming gardens, and outdoor adventures with your dog. But as beautiful as spring can be, it also brings a few seasonal hazards every dog owner should be aware of.
From tasty (but toxic) Easter treats to hidden parasites in the undergrowth, here’s what to watch out for – and how to keep your pup safe, healthy, and wagging all season long.
1. Easter Treats: Chocolate, Raisins & Hot Cross Buns
While we might love a bit of indulgence during Easter, many traditional treats can be dangerous for dogs.
Common Easter toxins include:
- Chocolate – toxic even in small amounts, especially dark chocolate
- Raisins and grapes – often found in hot cross buns and Simnel cake, and highly poisonous to dogs
- Xylitol – an artificial sweetener in some sugar-free sweets and baked goods
Keep Easter baskets and treats out of reach and make sure any visiting guests know not to share with your pup – no matter how cute their puppy eyes are.
2. Poisonous Spring Plants and Flowers
As gardens start to bloom, it’s good to remember that not all flowers are dog-friendly.
Toxic plants to keep an eye out for include:
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Crocuses
- Bluebells
- Azaleas
If your dog likes to explore the garden with their mouth, it's worth researching which plants are safe – or better yet, planting a dog-safe garden they can enjoy freely.
3. Ticks and Parasites on the Move
Warmer weather means ticks are back – especially in grassy areas and woodland walks.
How to check your dog for ticks:
- Run your hands gently over their coat after a walk
- Pay special attention to ears, armpits, paws, and under the collar
- Use a tick remover or ask your vet for help if you find one
Ticks can carry diseases like Lyme disease, so regular checks are a must. And while you’re at it, make sure your dog is up to date on flea, tick, and worming treatments – especially during spring and summer.
4. Spring Cleaning Dangers
If you're diving into a bit of spring cleaning, be mindful of what your pup might get into.
Hazards to avoid:
- Open toilet bowls (especially if you’ve just used bleach)
- Oven or drain cleaners
- Sprays and polishes with strong chemicals
Even if something smells unappealing to you, the shape or colour of packaging might be enough to tempt a curious dog. Always clean with the windows open, keep your dog out of recently cleaned rooms, and store all products securely.
5. Lungworm: The Hidden Threat in Slugs and Snails
Wet spring weather brings slugs and snails – and with them, the risk of lungworm.
How dogs get infected:
Lungworm is spread when dogs lick or accidentally eat slugs, snails, or their slime trails, often while playing in the garden, drinking from puddles, or chewing on toys left outside.
Symptoms of lungworm:
- Coughing or breathing problems
- Lethargy
- Delayed clotting (e.g. if your dog bleeds from a minor cut)
- Behaviour changes
If you’re concerned, speak to your vet immediately. Preventative treatments are available – and vital in spring and summer.
6. Weedkillers and Garden Chemicals
If you're sprucing up the garden, be careful with weedkillers and fertilisers.
These can cause:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Mouth ulcers
- Breathing or heart issues
- Kidney and liver problems
Keep your dog indoors while treating your garden, and avoid letting them play on recently treated grass or plants.
7. Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from pollen, grass, and dust allergies – and spring is peak season.
Signs your dog might have allergies:
- Itchy skin or excessive scratching
- Licking or chewing paws
- Watery eyes or sneezing
- Red or inflamed ears
If your dog seems uncomfortable, your vet can help with allergy testing or treatments to keep them comfortable through spring and beyond.
8. Dogs and Cars: A Spring Reminder
Even on a mild day, the inside of a car can heat up in minutes – and dogs can quickly overheat, even with the windows cracked.
If you’re heading out for a spring adventure, bring your dog with you when you leave the car, or make sure someone can stay behind with them. Always pack water, and create shady rest stops during longer journeys.
Our lightweight, breathable harnesses are perfect for spring travel – safe, stylish, and designed for adventure. Explore our harness collection here.
Spring Safety = More Fun for Everyone
Spring is a beautiful time to get outdoors and enjoy life with your dog – but a little awareness goes a long way. With a few simple precautions, you can protect your pup from seasonal hazards and make the most of the warmer days ahead.
Ready for springtime strolls?
Explore Wyld Cub’s range of comfy harnesses, stylish leads, and walk-ready accessories designed to keep your dog safe and looking their best this season.