Lead Poisoning in Dogs: How It Happens, How to Prevent It, and How to Treat It

Lead poisoning isn’t something most dog parents think about, but it should be. Just as children can be exposed to hidden sources of lead in the home, yard, and neighborhood, so can dogs. Because our pups explore the world with their mouths, they’re often at higher risk than we realize.

Here’s what every pet parent should know to keep their furry family members safe.

What Is Lead Poisoning in Dogs?

Lead poisoning occurs when a dog ingests or inhales lead from contaminated items or environments. The metal builds up in the body over time, affecting the nervous system, stomach, and blood, and can become life-threatening without treatment.

Dogs of all ages can be affected, but puppies are most vulnerable because they chew everything.

How Dogs Get Lead Poisoning

Most exposure happens at home or in older neighborhoods. Common sources include:

1. Chipping or Peeling Lead Paint

Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint. If your dog chews baseboards, window sills, old doors, or wood trim; that paint dust can poison them.

2. Lead in Soil

Soil around older homes or busy streets often contains lead. Dogs can ingest it by:

• Digging

• Licking paws after playing outside

• Eating mulch or dirt

  
  

3. Contaminated Water

Old pipes and plumbing fixtures may leach lead into drinking water, for humans and pets.

4. Household Items

Dogs may chew or ingest:

• Old toys

• Fishing weights

• Stained-glass materials

• Old linoleum

• Antique furniture or hardware

• Jewelry or costume beads

  
  

5. Lead Dust from Renovations

Home repairs and sanding can stir up toxic dust that settles on floors, carpets, bedding, toys, and dog bowls.

Signs & Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Dogs

Symptoms may develop slowly or suddenly depending on how much lead the dog ingested.

Neurological Symptoms

• Seizures

• Tremors

• Blindness

• Disorientation

• Staggering or difficulty walking

• Behavior changes (aggression, anxiety, confusion)

  
  

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Constipation

  
  

Other Symptoms

• Excessive drooling

• Lethargy

• Pale gums

• Abdominal pain

  
  

If you see these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.

How to Prevent Lead Poisoning in Dogs

1. Know Your Home’s History

If your home was built before 1978:

• Avoid letting your dog chew painted surfaces

• Keep them away from peeling paint

• Vacuum frequently using a HEPA filter

• Seal or repaint areas safely (or hire a certified lead abatement company)

  
  

2. Treat Your Yard Carefully

• Cover bare soil with fresh mulch or grass

• Create a dog-safe area away from the foundation soil

• Wipe paws after outdoor play

  
  

3. Filter Your Dog’s Water

Use a lead-removing water filter for all drinking water—yours and your pet’s.

4. Inspect Toys & Household Items

Avoid:

• Antique toys

• Painted imported toys

• Old furniture with chipping paint

Stick to certified pet-safe items.

5. Secure Renovation Areas

Renovation dust is one of the biggest hidden risks. During projects:

• Keep dogs in a separate, closed-off area

• Clean surfaces daily

• Mop with warm, soapy water

How Vets Diagnose Lead Poisoning

If your veterinarian suspects lead poisoning, they may order:

• Blood lead level test

• X-rays (to check if any lead objects were swallowed)

• Blood chemistry tests to assess organ function

How Lead Poisoning in Dogs Is Treated

Treatment depends on the amount of exposure.

1. Removing the Source

The first step is to identify and eliminate the lead source.

2. Chelation Therapy

Vets may prescribe medications that bind to lead so the body can remove it.

3. Supportive Care

Depending on the severity, dogs may need:

• IV fluids

• Anti-seizure medications

• Gastrointestinal support

• Hospitalization

  
  

4. Surgery (If Needed)

If a dog ingests a foreign object, such as a fishing weight, surgery or endoscopy may be required.

With prompt care, many dogs recover fully, but early detection is key.

Quick Safety Checklist for Pet Parents

• Keep dogs away from peeling paint.

• Wipe paws after outdoor play

• Use filtered water

• Store renovation supplies safely

• Replace old or questionable toys

• Monitor chewing on furniture or walls

• Schedule a vet check if your dog shows symptoms

Your Dog’s Health Starts at Home

Lead poisoning is preventable. By recognizing risks and practicing simple safety steps, you can protect your dog and your whole family from this hidden danger.

Your pup depends on you to keep their world safe. And with a bit of awareness, you can make sure they live a long, healthy, and Pawsh Life.