Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My puppy ate a snail. Is it toxic or dangerous? What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 2 months and 18 days old

Hello.. my wee puppy that is 10 weeks old ate a big snail .. i loked it up and it says it could be dangerous.. she fall asleep now. What should ido

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 22nd, 2016

Snails are generally non toxic to dogs, but the problems come with with the parasites they carry, and if they have been poisoned with snail poisoning. Snails carry lungworms, which will be passed to dogs when the snail is eaten by the dog. Not all snails carry lungworms, so you can monitor Daisy for signs of coughing and difficulty breathing. If she develops those problems, you should take her into your vet. The snail's shell could also potentially cause GI obstruction or GI upset, but it's not too likely. Monitor her for vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, or extremely lethargy, and if you see any of those signs, take her into your vet. Finally, as I mentioned, there can be problems if the snail was poisoned with snail poisoning. Signs of toxicity from snail poisoning include tremors and twitching, which are exacerbated by noise. If you see any of those signs, you need to take Daisy into your vet right away. If she is actually normally, eating and drinking normally, and having normal bathroom habits, I would not worry about her.

Vote icon

7Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    If she is acting lethargic and sleepy now, I would recommend having her seen by a vet right away - I'm not familiar with any species of snails that are toxic to dogs, but without knowing what area you live in I can't say for sure if this could be a concern. The safest bet would be to have her examined by a vet - he/she can do some blood work if needed to check for any toxicity issues.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored