When Curiosity Bites Back - How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Wasps, Beetles, and Buzzing Threats
Summer in Canada is all about getting outside - camping trips, lake days, lazy afternoons in the backyard. But for your dog, this season of adventure comes with some serious bug drama. Whether it’s a buzzing wasp that won’t take no for an answer or a shiny beetle that looked just a little too snackable, dogs and insects don’t always get along.
And when they clash? Things can get messy - fast.
From painful stings and internal swelling to upset stomachs and allergic reactions, insect encounters can range from “no big deal” to “call the vet now.” As pet parents, we want to protect our dogs without panicking over every mosquito.
That’s why we built this guide: a complete, practical breakdown of what to do if your dog gets stung, bites a bug, or brings home a whole new colony of backyard pests. We’ll walk you through:
- How to identify and treat common bug encounters
- When to call your vet (and what to watch for)
- Safe, natural ways to soothe stings and irritation
- Prevention strategies for bug-free adventures
- The best traps, repellents, and treatments available at Brindle Pet Supplies
From K9 Advantix II to Citrobug spray, from Rescue! W.H.Y traps to natural chews that keep pests at bay, we’ve got the tools to help you take back your summer - without putting your dog at risk.
Bug Bites and Stings: What’s Normal and What’s Not
Dogs have a special talent for getting into things they shouldn’t - especially when bugs are involved. While most insect encounters are harmless, some can cause irritation, discomfort, or even life-threatening reactions. Here's what pet parents need to know.
Wasp, Hornet and Bee Stings
These are the most common - and often the most painful. Dogs usually get stung on the face, mouth, or paws while sniffing around.
What to watch for:
- Sudden yelp or flinch during play
- Swelling at the sting site
- Redness or hives
- Excessive licking, pawing at the face or mouth
When to worry:
- Swelling spreads rapidly (especially around the throat)
- Trouble breathing or drooling
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of shock (pale gums, weakness)
Pro tip: Even one sting can cause an allergic reaction, especially in small breeds or dogs with known sensitivities. If in doubt, call your vet.
Ant Bites
Most ant bites cause mild itching and irritation. Fire ants, however, can be more serious (especially in southern areas of Canada during dry summers).
What to watch for:
- Small red bumps or welts
- Localized itching
- Temporary limping if bitten on the paw
Beetles, Spiders and Mystery Bugs
Dogs love to “hunt” crawling things - especially shiny, crunchy beetles. While most are harmless, some bugs can be toxic or carry parasites.
Japanese beetles, for example, aren’t toxic, but eating too many can cause GI upset. Spiders, depending on species, can also cause reactions ranging from mild to severe.
What to watch for:
- Drooling or head shaking after chewing a bug
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Swelling of the face or muzzle
- Lethargy or agitation
Mosquitoes, Fleas and Ticks
These bloodsucking bugs are more than a nuisance - they can transmit serious diseases like heartworm, Lyme disease, and tapeworms. Insect stings may be one-time events, but flea and tick infestations are preventable - and dangerous if ignored.
We’ll cover prevention in a later section, but if your dog is scratching more than usual or you spot a tick, act quickly.
What to Do If Your Dog Gets Stung or Eats a Bug
First things first: try not to panic. Most bug stings and bites won’t require an emergency vet visit - but knowing what to do in the moment can make a huge difference in your dog’s comfort (and safety).
If Your Dog Gets Stung
Stay calm and move your dog away from the insect. If the stinger is visible (like with a bee), gently remove it by scraping with a credit card - not tweezers, which can squeeze more venom in.
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area: Use a clean cloth and cold water or ice wrapped in a towel. This helps reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Check for an allergic reaction: Watch closely for difficulty breathing, swelling around the throat, hives, or lethargy. If any of these symptoms appear - get to a vet immediately.
- Consider giving Benadryl - if approved by your vet: Many vets recommend a safe dose of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for mild swelling or itchiness, but always confirm dosage before using.
If Your Dog Eats a Bug
Let’s be honest - your dog has probably eaten worse. Most bugs are gross, not dangerous. That said, there are exceptions.
Safe to eat in small quantities:
- Flies, ants, moths, and non-toxic beetles
Can cause issues:
- Wasps and bees (due to internal stings)
- Spiders (some can be toxic)
- Japanese beetles (non-toxic but irritating if ingested in large numbers)
- Caterpillars or bugs with bright colours - many of these signal toxicity in nature
What to do:
- Monitor your dog for 24 hours
- If they vomit more than once, have diarrhea, or act off - call your vet
- Make sure fresh water is available at all times
When in Doubt, Call Your Vet
Even if it seems minor, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet with concerns. A quick phone call can give you peace of mind and help you know whether to wait it out or come in for an appointment.
Bug Prevention 101: Protect Your Dog Before It Happens
You can’t control every mosquito or wasp, but you can absolutely reduce the risk of bug trouble in your yard, on hikes, and even at the campground.
Here are your essential summer bug-fighting tools, available now at Brindle Pet Supplies:
Trap the Trouble at the Source
- Rescue! W.H.Y Trap for Wasps, Hornets and Yellowjackets: Draws in aggressive stingers before they ruin your backyard BBQ. No poisons, no sprays - just a smart trap that keeps working all season.
- Rescue! Yellowjacket Disposable Trap: Perfect for travel, cabins, or campgrounds. Compact, effective, and mess-free.
- Rescue! Japanese Beetle Trap: These shiny beetles are irresistible to dogs - but not great for digestion. Set this up near your garden to trap them before your pup snacks.
- Rescue! W.H.Y Trap Refill – 2 Week Supply: Keep the protection going without needing a brand-new trap.
Keep Bugs Off Your Dog - Naturally
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Citrobug Insect Spray for Dogs and Horses: This all-natural, DEET-free bug spray is made in Canada and safe for daily use. Protects your pup from mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and more - no harsh chemicals required.
Long-Term Protection from Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitoes
K9 Advantix II Once-a-Month Topical Flea and Tick Treatment: This trusted, vet-recommended topical protects against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes - and repels bugs before they bite.
Available for every dog size:
- Small Dog (Under 4.5 kg)
- Medium Dog (4.6 to 11 kg)
- Large Dog (11 to 25 kg)
- Extra Large Dog (Over 25 kg)
Final Thoughts: Less Buzz, More Fun
Bugs happen - but with a few smart tools and a little prep, you can help your dog enjoy every summer adventure without painful stings or scary reactions. From wasp traps to all-natural sprays and vet-trusted flea treatments, Brindle Pet Supplies has everything you need to keep your pup protected.
🐾 Shop bug protection for dogs now and enjoy fast, reliable shipping across Canada - just in time for backyard season.