Can Dogs Get Sick From Eating Bugs? Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever caught your furry friend munching on a crunchy beetle or snapping at flies in the backyard? If so you’re not alone! Many dog owners have witnessed their pups turning into amateur entomologists with a taste for creepy crawlies. But this bug-hunting behavior often leads to a worrying question can dogs get sick from eating bugs?

As a dog owner myself, I’ve definitely panicked seeing my Lab chowing down on something with six legs. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about dogs and their bug-eating habits.

Why Do Dogs Eat Bugs Anyway?

Before we talk about potential sickness, let’s understand why our canine companions find insects so irresistible:

• Pure curiosity – Dogs explore the world with their mouths
• Hunting instinct – That moving target triggers their prey drive
• Sensory experience – The crunch, taste, and texture can be appealing
• Playfulness – Some dogs just enjoy the chase!

According to Dr. Tracey Peterson, an internal medicine veterinarian, “Dogs often eat bugs simply for the excitement. They see something crawling on the ground and it is stimulatory.”

Can Dogs Get Sick From Eating Bugs? The Honest Truth

The short answer: Yes, dogs can definitely get sick from eating certain bugs.

But not all insects pose the same risk. Some are relatively harmless (though gross), while others can cause serious health problems. Let’s break it down:

Bugs That Are Usually Safe

Most dogs can munch on these insects without major issues:

• Flies (though not the most hygienic snack)
• Moths
• Most beetles (in small quantities)
• Termites

These bugs might cause a mild upset tummy but typically won’t lead to serious illness when consumed in small amounts

Bugs That Can Make Your Dog Sick

Here’s where you need to be careful! These bugs can cause health problems:

1. Bees and Wasps

The danger isn’t so much from eating them but getting stung in the process. My pit bull Otter “loved to eat bees, and would run in from the yard with a muzzle full of bee stings.” While he handled it okay, many dogs can have severe allergic reactions to stings, including:

• Facial swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Potential anaphylactic shock

2. June Bugs

These pretty beetles with shimmering green exoskeletons might look harmless, but they can cause:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• General stomach upset

One or two probably won’t hurt, but a bug buffet could lead to an unpleasant night for both you and your pooch.

3. Stink Bugs

Dogs who eat stink bugs might experience:

• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Mouth irritation

Plus as the name suggests, they taste terrible! Their bitter excretions can cause your dog to foam at the mouth or vomit if they bite into one.

4. Asian Lady Beetles

These look similar to ladybugs but are more dangerous. They can actually cause:

• Chemical burns in your dog’s mouth
• Gastrointestinal tract damage
• In severe cases, they can embed in a dog’s palate

There was even a documented case where a dog died after eating several dozen of these beetles!

5. Caterpillars

Not all caterpillars are dangerous, but some can be big trouble:

• Some feed on milkweed, which contains cardiac glycoside poisons
• Others have venomous spines that can sting
• Particularly dangerous varieties include the saddleback, monkey slug, and puss moth caterpillars

6. Venomous Spiders

Black widows and brown recluses pose serious risks if they bite your dog while being eaten. This can lead to:

• Severe illness
• Potential death without treatment

Bug-Borne Parasites: The Hidden Danger

Even if the bug itself isn’t toxic, what it carries might be problematic:

Parasites That Bugs Can Transmit to Dogs

“Dogs can get worms from eating the larvae and eggs of roundworms or hookworms, which can be found on insects or around them, such as soil that contains eggs or larvae,” explains pet health experts.

What Happens If Your Dog Eats Too Many Bugs?

Even harmless insects can cause problems in large quantities:

1. Gastrointestinal blockage: A large number of bugs with hard exoskeletons can form a bezoar (hard mass) in the stomach that cannot pass through the digestive tract and may require surgical removal.

2. Insecticide poisoning: Bugs that have been exposed to pesticides or insecticides can transfer those toxins to your dog.

3. General GI upset: Any foreign material in large quantities can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and drooling.

Signs Your Dog Is Sick From Eating Bugs

Watch for these symptoms that might indicate your dog is having a reaction:

• Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Vomiting or retching
• Diarrhea or abnormal stool
• Swelling around the face, especially mouth and eyes
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Lethargy or unusual behavior

If you notice any of these signs after your dog has been snacking on insects, it’s time to call the vet!

Prevention: Keeping Your Bug-Loving Dog Safe

Since we can’t always monitor what our dogs put in their mouths, here are some preventative measures:

1. Training Is Key

Teach your dog the “leave it” command early and reinforce it often. This can be a lifesaver when they’re about to chomp down on something dangerous.

2. Regular Parasite Prevention

Keep your dog on year-round parasite prevention medication to protect against bug-borne parasites like heartworms and tapeworms.

3. Yard Maintenance

Reduce bug populations in your yard by:

• Mowing grass regularly
• Removing leaf litter and debris
• Eliminating standing water (mosquito breeding grounds)
• Using pet-safe insect control methods

4. Supervision

When outside, keep an eye on your dog, especially if they have a known history of bug eating.

When to Call the Vet

Not every bug encounter requires medical attention, but don’t hesitate to call your vet if:

• Your dog has eaten a known toxic insect
• They’re showing signs of an allergic reaction
• You notice persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• There’s unusual swelling, especially around the face
• Your dog seems to be in pain or discomfort
• They’re having difficulty breathing

Better safe than sorry when it comes to your furry friend’s health!

Final Thoughts: Should You Worry?

While the idea of your dog munching on bugs is definitely gross (no kisses for a while, please!), in most cases, eating the occasional insect won’t cause serious harm. Many bugs even provide a little extra protein in your dog’s diet – think of them as canine corn chips!

However, with the potential risks from certain insects and parasites, it’s best to discourage bug-eating behavior when possible. Since dogs don’t understand the difference between a harmless fly and a venomous spider, teaching them to avoid all bugs is the safest approach.

Remember that puppies and younger dogs are typically more curious about bugs, but any dog can develop a taste for these crunchy critters.

So next time you see your dog chomping on a bug, don’t panic completely – but do try to identify what they ate and watch for any concerning symptoms. Your vigilance could save them from an uncomfortable tummy ache or something more serious!

Have you ever caught your dog eating bugs? What was your reaction? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you’re concerned about your dog’s health after they’ve eaten bugs or any other substance, please consult with your veterinarian.