While most backyard encounters with frogs are harmless, some species can be poisonous to dogs. Understanding the dangers and knowing what to do if your dog comes into contact with a toad is crucial for their safety.
Toad Poisoning in Dogs: A Serious Threat
The two main culprits for toad poisoning in dogs in North America are the Cane Toad (also called the giant or Bufo toad) and the Colorado River Toad (also known as the Sonoran Desert Toad). These toads secrete toxins from their skin glands as a defense mechanism when threatened. If your dog licks or eats one, they can become very sick.
Symptoms of Frog Poisoning:
Increased salivation
Foaming at the mouth
Vocalization (whimpering, yelping)
Pawing at the face or mouth
Disorientation, stumbling, or circling
Seizures
Difficulty breathing
If you notice any of these symptoms after your dog has been around frogs, take them to the vet immediately. Early intervention is crucial for a full recovery.
Are Backyard Frogs Poisonous to Dogs?
Not all frogs are poisonous to dogs. Many common backyard frog species, such as tree frogs, are unlikely to cause serious harm. However, they can still irritate your dog's mouth and eyes if licked or ingested. Signs of this irritation may include:
Excessive drooling
Pawing at the face
Mild vomiting
If you suspect your dog has licked a frog, flush their mouth with clean water for several minutes and contact your veterinarian for further advice.
Expert Insights From Spot:
Curious canines often get themselves into trouble by ingesting unexpected things. Spot's data reveals that the average cost of treating a dog for toxic ingestion is $662, with nearly 5,000 claims processed. This highlights the importance of keeping your dog on a leash and out of reach of potentially harmful objects, including frogs depending on the species. If you suspect your dog has ingested something poisonous, contact your veterinarian immediately. Learn more about how pet insurance works and discover if pet insurance is right for you.
What Happens if My Dog Eats a Frog?
The consequences of your dog eating a frog depend on the type of frog and the amount of toxins ingested.
Poisonous Toads (Cane Toad, Colorado River Toad): If your dog eats a poisonous toad, they can become very sick and require immediate veterinary attention. The toxins can affect their nervous system, heart, and blood vessels, leading to seizures, difficulty breathing, and even death.
Non-Poisonous Frogs (Tree Frogs): While not deadly, non-poisonous frogs can still irritate your dog's mouth and eyes. They may experience excessive drooling, pawing at the face, and mild vomiting.
Remember: When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested a frog.
Are Garden Frogs Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, certain garden frogs can be considered poisonous to dogs. Some of the most hazardous species of frogs include cane toads and Colorado River toads. The Cane Toad is a particular concern in Florida. If you live in Florida, we recommend that you supervise your dog when it is outside.
How To Tell If a Frog is Poisonous
One way that you can see if a frog is poisonous is to look at visual cues. One of these visual cues includes bright colors and patterns. These bright colors and patterns could be appealing at first, but they should be taken seriously.
Another thing to look at if you are wondering if a frog is poisonous is a frog’s behavioral traits. Certain frogs may display behaviors such as remaining highly visible during the day, relying on their toxicity for protection rather than camouflage.
Which Frogs are Toxic to Touch?
In the United States, there are several amphibian species that possess toxins that can be harmful upon contact of ingestion. Some notable examples include the pickerel frog and the Colorado River Toad. It's important to note that while these species have toxic secretions, adverse effects typically occur through ingestion or contact with mucous membranes rather than mere skin contact.
Why is My Dog Foaming After Licking a Toad?
As mentioned above, the only way that dogs will get negatively impacted after licking a toad is if they bite the toad - this will cause the frog to excrete poison. If your dog’s mouth is foaming after licking a toad, it is likely just a reaction to the poison. You should make an effort to take your dog to the veterinarian if you notice this.
How Long Does it Take for a Dog to Get Sick After Licking a Toad?
The time it takes for a dog to get sick after licking a toad can vary, but symptoms often appear within 15 to 30 minutes.
Key Takeaways
Enjoying the outdoors with your dog is a great way to bond, but it's important to be aware of potential dangers. By familiarizing yourself with the types of frogs in your area and keeping an eye on your dog during walks, you can help prevent accidental poisoning and keep your furry friend safe. If you have any concerns about your dog's health after encountering a frog, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian for professional advice.
Mostly a tech person, always a pet person. I am dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their humans with technology. Off-duty, I enjoy writing about the misbehaving of computer programs and my two Aussiedoodles, Calvin and Hobbes.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Veterinary Centers of America
UF, Florida Wildlife Frequently Asked Questions about Frogs and Toads
Pet Poison Helpline
