Clothing to protect against grass awns is dog clothing made from tightly woven, protective fabric that prevents grass awns from getting stuck in the coat and penetrating your dog's skin. Such a suit covers the vulnerable areas, preventing the sharp seeds from getting inside.
With the nice weather comes the time for grass awns again. For many dog owners, this is a recurring annual problem, and for good reason. A grass awn may seem harmless, but it can cause a painful and distressing condition for your dog. In the shop, we get questions about this every year, especially from owners of dogs with long or thick coats. In this blog, we explain exactly what grass awns are, why they can be dangerous, and how you can protect your dog from them with the right clothing.
What are grass awns and why are they dangerous?
Grass awns are the seed-bearing tips of certain grasses. In summer, they dry out and break off. The loose awns have an arrow-shaped tip with small barbs. This shape allows a grass awn to easily attach itself to your dog's coat and move in only one direction: inwards.
The problem is that a grass awn can bore through the skin. Common areas include between the toes, in the ears, around the eyes, and in the armpits. Once under the skin, the grass awn often goes unnoticed because it is no longer visible. However, it continues to migrate through the body, causing inflammation and abscesses. In many cases, a veterinarian must surgically remove the grass awn. Precisely because the awn moves, this is no simple procedure.
Which dogs are most at risk?
Dogs with long or thick coats are particularly vulnerable. Think of poodles, doodles, spaniels, and herding dogs. In these breeds, grass awns can easily work their way into the coat without you noticing. Dogs that spend a lot of time in tall grass, roadside verges, or dune areas are also at greater risk. If you often walk through overgrown areas during the summer months, extra vigilance is advisable.
How does clothing protect your dog from grass awns?
A grass awn can only attach itself if it can reach the coat or skin. A well-fitting suit made from smooth, tightly woven fabric removes that possibility. The awns slide off the fabric instead of hooking on, and the vulnerable parts of the body remain covered. It is a simple, preventive solution for a problem that would otherwise quickly end up at the veterinarian.
We carry the suits from Paikka for this purpose. They were originally designed to protect against insects and UV rays, but they also offer protection against grass awns. The Paikka UV & Bug Overall covers the body and legs, making it the most complete protection. If you would like a lighter version, the Paikka UV & Bug Shirt is a good choice. You can find both suits in our Paikka collection.
Why the striking zebra pattern?
The Paikka suits have a distinctive zebra pattern. This is not a fashion choice. The black-and-white stripes create an optical illusion that disorients flying insects, making them less likely to land on your dog. Combined with the GREENFIRST finish, a plant-based treatment against mosquitoes and insects, the suit keeps unwanted pests at bay. The fabric also offers UV protection with the highest rating of UPF 50+, which is ideal for dogs with light or thin coats.
An additional benefit: you can wet the suit. The UV-resistant, quick-drying fabric provides some cooling in warm weather. The material is lightweight and stretchy, allowing your dog to move freely. The suits are also machine washable at 30 degrees.
But isn't dog clothing unnatural in warm weather?
That is a reasonable question, and one we hear often. At first glance, dressing a dog in a suit when it is thirty degrees seems contradictory. The difference lies in the purpose and the material. This is not a warm sweater, but a thin, breathable, UV-resistant suit that provides protection against insects, the sun, and grass awns. For a dog that might otherwise face surgery to remove an internal grass awn, it is a well-considered choice. We do not sell anything that puts unnecessary strain on your dog; if in doubt, we are happy to help you find the right solution.
Frequently asked questions about grass awns and protective clothing
When is the grass awn season?
Grass awns are most common from late spring through late summer, roughly from May to September. During this period, grasses dry out and the awns break off. If you walk through tall grass or roadside verges during these months, be extra vigilant.
How do I know if my dog has a grass awn?
Look out for sudden licking of the legs, shaking of the head, sneezing, or a swelling that does not go away. A grass awn under the skin is often not visible. If you are in doubt, consult your veterinarian; the sooner the awn is removed, the less it can migrate.
Does trimming the coat also help protect against grass awns?
A shorter coat makes it easier to spot and remove grass awns, and can reduce the risk. It does not eliminate the risk entirely, as the legs, ears, and eyes remain vulnerable. A combination of coat care and a protective suit works best. We are happy to advise you on this in our grooming salon.
What size suit does my dog need?
For the Paikka suits, the back length is the most important measurement: measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. If you visit us in the shop, we will fit the suit together with your dog, so we can be sure the size is correct.
Can I also use the suit against mosquitoes and the sun?
Yes. The Paikka suits are designed to protect against insects and UV rays, and they also protect against grass awns. This means you can use the same suit throughout the summer season.
Need advice?
If you are unsure whether a suit is suitable for your dog, or if you need help choosing the right size, call us, email us, or visit us on the Haarlemmerdijk. We will look at the breed, the coat, and the way you walk your dog together with you, and help you find the right protection. You can find the suits in our Paikka collection.