Ant bites can be frustrating for people, and equally as such for our dogs. For some, they can even be dangerous. Unfortunately for dog owners in some areas, ant bites on dogs are an inevitable part of life. Keep reading to learn more about ant bites on dogs and what you can do to prevent them.
When dog owners think about insects that can hurt their pup, fleas and ticks usually come to mind. Ants, though, can be a problem for Fido, too.
There are thousands of species of ants all over the world, but most don’t pose a big risk to dogs. Some species though, like fire ants, can pose a serious problem to your dog. And, depending on where you live, they may be prevalent.
Ant bites can look like other insect bites, allergic reactions, and an array of other skin conditions. Here are the symptoms of ant bites on dogs and how to distinguish ant bites from other insects and wildlife bites.
There are some subtle symptoms that your dog has been bit or stung by ants — there are also more serious symptoms that can indicate an anaphylactic reaction (Trusted Source). Ranging from mild to severe, here are some symptoms of stings and ant bites on dogs.
For dogs that are especially sensitive to the proteins found in certain insects, their reactions may be stronger.
Ant bites can be singular and may look a lot like flea bites on dogs. With fire ants, which are a likely suspect in warmer climates, you may notice clusters of bites. Fire ants both bite and sting, and after a few days the area will develop into a white puss-filled sore. They tend to swarm and will climb up vertical spaces, like your dog’s legs, so look for clusters of bites around their paws and legs.
Ant bites on dogs can be irritating, but not always dangerous. Many ants won’t bite or sting unless provoked, but fire ants tend to be aggressive and are dangerous with painful bites and stings. For people and dogs alike, fatal allergic reactions to fire ants can take place, so it’s important to pay attention to the symptoms listed below and know the risks of repeated exposure.
Many sensitivities and allergies develop over time with repeated exposure. For dogs, ant bites can lead to long-term health issues (Trusted Source), like:
Treating your dog’s ant bites may be simple, but it can require specialized care depending on the situation. Keep reading to learn more about home remedies and when it’s time to visit the vet.
For mild cases of ant bites, treatment may be as simple as giving your dog some good scratches and applying an ice pack to help relieve the itch until the inflammation dies down. Hydrocortisone anti-itch sprays may be an option for immediate relief, while anti-allergy chews can provide ongoing relief for pups that can’t seem to leave ant colonies alone.
For more severe cases where your dog experiences respiratory issues, weakness, vomiting, or swelling, it’s time for a vet visit. Dogs may be experiencing a more severe reaction that won’t be resolved without medication and treatment.
🚨 If your dog is in acute distress and having trouble breathing, take them to an emergency vet hospital immediately.
Preventing ant bites on dogs is mostly about being proactive in and around your home, and teaching your dog good manners when it comes to ant hills and colonies. Here are some tips for keeping your dog safe from ants.
Ant proof your home — Look for areas in the home where ants get in and seal them up. This can include around doors and window frames, or coming in on your clothing and shoes. Cleaning up sweets and foods can remove temptation from ants as well.
Train your dog to avoid ants — While you may not be able to train your dog to spot a nefarious fire ant hill, you can teach them commands, like “leave it,” that will prevent them from disturbing the colony.
Discourage ants from nesting in your yard — Pet-safe pesticides can help treat your yard and discourage ants from building their colony there. You can also use all-natural techniques if pesticides aren’t an option.
Leash your dog when they’re outside — Having control over where your dog roams, especially during the summertime, can allow you to prevent them from going to areas with known ant activity.
Ant bites on dogs are, at best, irritating. At worst though, ant bites can lead to serious health conditions for sensitive dogs and particularly aggressive ant breeds. It’s essential that dog parents be aware of what to look for and what to do if your dog has a severe reaction to ant bites.
Mild to severe allergic reactions can be treated with Benadryl. The dosage will depend on the size of your dog and should be administered with guidance from your veterinarian.
To prevent your dog from getting ant bites in the future, you should avoid areas known to have ant infestations, use pet-safe insect repellents, and keep your dog’s living areas clean and free of food scraps that might attract ants. Regular grooming and wellness checks can also help identify and prevent potential infestations.
You should consider seeking veterinary help if your dog has ant bites when you notice severe swelling, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling or licking, or if the dog becomes lethargic or seems to be in pain. Also, if the ant bites don’t seem to be improving after a couple of days, it would be a good idea to consult with a veterinarian.
Yes, ant bites can be dangerous for dogs as they may cause allergic reactions, pain, swelling, and discomfort. However, fatalities are quite rare and usually occur only if the dog is either very small, has a severe allergic reaction, or if it was attacked by a large number of ants.
