Are spider bites poisonous to dogs? Unfortunately, there is no defining answer to this question, it all depends on the potency of the venom of the spider and the health/age/size of the dog.
We will however, endeavour to answer it, as we know it can be quite worrying should your beloved pet get bitten by one of our eight-legged friends.
Most spiders are completely harmless to dogs, just like they are to humans and will leave nothing more that a redness, slight swelling, maybe some irritation and at worst some slight pain that can be alleviated with Benadryl (if safe to do so). Exceptions are certain tarantulas and other highly venomous species of spider.
So there’s your basic and quick answer. There are so many species of spider out there, it is difficult to list them all.
Please also bear in mind that unlike your pet tarantula, you are probably unlikely to notice what species of spider bit your dog (unless you are in an area that has a high population of said spider) as they can be incredibly fast and extremely small meaning that the spider will be long gone by the time you notice Fido’s bite.
However, here are some of the more common questions we get asked.
Are Wolf Spiders Poisonous to Dogs?
No. Thankfully, Wolf Spiders don’t particularly have poisonous venom and are on the safer end of the “venomous” spider spectrum.
However, if your dog does get bitten by one of these, chances are he’ll lick the wound site and act quite miserable. Keep him hydrated, give him painkillers and keep a close eye on the site for any signs of infection.
We have an article on the Wolf Spider here Are Wolf Spiders Poisonous?
Are Black Widow Spiders Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes. Black Widows are extremely toxic to pets.
They carry a neurotoxin (a-latrotoxin), which can cause tremors, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, severe muscle pain, paralysis, and death.
Treatment includes the use of an antivenom, IV fluids, anti-seizure medications and pain medications. If you suspect your dog or cat were bitten by a black widow spider, call your veterinarian immediately.
Are Yellow Sack Spiders Poisonous to Dogs?
Maybe. Yellow Sack spiders are another toxic type of spider.
They are particularly aggressive, often intentionally biting sleeping animals. Whilst their venom is only mildly toxic, it can have an effect on smaller dogs or dogs with underlying health conditions.
The biggest risk from these spiders is that the affected tissue can become necrotic.
These spiders are very common in the UK, mainly found in agricultural fields and are very small at 5-10mm.
Are Brown Recluse Spiders Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes. The Brown Recluse spider (also known as the “fiddle-back” or “violin” spider due to its markings) is another venomous spider to look out for.
In the most severe cases, the symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite on a dog may include bleeding, seizures, or respiratory collapse. If you think a brown recluse has bitten your dog, contact your vet for emergency care.
Are House Spiders Poisonous to Dogs?
No. House spiders are very prominent in the UK, and along with most other species are completely harmless.
They do have fangs and venom, but they are not strong enough to pierce the skin of a dog.
What to do if my dog is bitten by a spider?
As mentioned in our Tarantula bite article, there are a few things you can do to relieve the soreness/itchiness should your dog get bitten by a spider. They are:
- Use a cold compress to help with swelling.
- Give your dog an oatmeal bath.
- Apply paste of baking soda and water to the wound.
- Apply Aloe Vera gel to the bite.
- Give your dog Benadryl (if safe to do so).
If in any doubt, contact your veterinarian for immediate treatment. Spider bites are less easy to spot that tarantula bites as the size of the spider is a lot smaller and will most likely leave the area immediately after biting.
FUN FACT: Every spider in the world is venomous to some degree. It is purely the strength of venom a spider carries and whether they have strong enough fangs to pierce a dog’s skin which determines whether they are poisonous to dogs.
So to sum it up, most spider bites on dogs, although painful and sore looking, thankfully aren’t actually poisonous.
Until next time, stay spidery!