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My dog tries to approach a raccoon in the yard. Is it dangerous?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 14 lbs

I’ve seen a raccoon hanging out in the backyard, and my dog tries to approach it. Should I be worried?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 23rd, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Tipper. So yes, this can be worrying. Raccoons can carry serious diseases like rabies and distemper. You need to keep her away from the raccoon. Call your local animal control to come and trap this raccoon. Oftentimes, if the raccoon is visible during the day and lets animals approach it, that is a sign it's sick. Also make sure Tipper is up to date on her vaccines like her DHPPi combination shot and rabies. I hope this helps!

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