Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is one of the most common turf varieties found in warmer climates. While generally non-toxic, it presents several physical and immunological challenges that require owner vigilance. Understanding these specific risks is the best way to ensure your dog can safely enjoy a Bermuda lawn.
Ingestion Safety and Toxicity
Bermuda grass itself contains no known toxic compounds and is classified as safe for canine consumption. Dogs frequently ingest grass, a natural behavior that may be a way to increase dietary fiber, which aids in gastrointestinal transit. However, excessive grazing can still lead to mild stomach upset, which may result in vomiting or minor diarrhea.
The main internal risk associated with any lawn consumption comes from external chemical applications. Pesticides, herbicides, and certain fertilizers used to maintain the lawn can be highly toxic if ingested by a dog. Owners should always follow the product’s recommended re-entry interval, typically a period of 24 to 72 hours, after applying any lawn treatment to prevent accidental poisoning.
Physical Hazards from Runners and Seed Heads
The structure of Bermuda grass presents specific external risks to dogs. Bermuda grass spreads aggressively using tough, wiry runners called stolons that creep along the soil surface. These runners can be stiff enough to cause minor irritation or small scrapes on sensitive areas like the paw pads and between the toes.
The mature seed heads, which develop during the summer months, pose a more serious threat. Bermuda grass seeds can still become lodged in a dog’s fur, ears, eyes, or nasal passages. These small, bristly awns have a one-way structure that allows them to burrow deeper into the tissue, potentially causing inflammation, infection, or abscesses. Owners must be diligent about checking their dog’s coat, especially the paws and ears, after outdoor time during the seeding season.
Allergic Responses to Bermuda Grass
Bermuda grass is a significant producer of pollen and is a common source of allergic reactions in dogs. The pollen is airborne and highly allergenic, often causing seasonal respiratory symptoms in sensitive dogs. The most frequent manifestation is contact dermatitis, an itchy skin reaction triggered by direct exposure to the grass.
Contact allergies typically affect areas where the dog’s skin meets the grass, such as the paws, belly, muzzle, and groin. Symptoms include redness, inflammation, and intense itching, which can lead to excessive licking and chewing that causes secondary skin infections. Management often involves routine paw washing after being outdoors to rinse off the pollen and reduce direct contact. For persistent or severe symptoms, veterinarians may recommend treatments such as antihistamines, medicated shampoos, or immune-modulating therapies.