Dogs often seem interested in unexpected household items, and dryer sheets can pose a surprising risk if they decide to chew on one. Dryer sheets contain various chemicals that can be toxic to pets, so it’s essential to understand the potential dangers and know what steps to take if your dog ingests one.
Why Might a Dog Want to Eat a Dryer Sheet?
Dryer sheets can be attractive to dogs for a few reasons. According to Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinarian for the CKC, “Dogs may be drawn to non-food items because of factors like scent, texture, boredom, or anxiety.” Younger dogs and puppies especially tend to be curious and may explore new items with their mouths, making them more susceptible to accidental ingestion.
For instance, dogs may sniff out dryer sheets in laundry baskets if they have picked up on scents they associate with food or treats. My own Lagotto Romagnolo has been known to dive into the laundry basket, eager to find “treats” from forgotten pockets, and would likely chew a dryer sheet if it smelled like her favorite treats.
Let me know if you’d like more details on symptoms to watch for and what steps to take if a dog eats a dryer sheet!
Are Dryer Sheets Dangerous for Dogs?
Yes, dryer sheets can be dangerous for dogs, whether they lick, chew, or swallow them. Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinarian for the CKC, explains that dryer sheets contain cationic detergents, commonly found in fabric softeners, which can be highly toxic if ingested.
“Cationic detergents are corrosive, and chewing on an unused dryer sheet can burn or ulcerate the dog’s sensitive mouth, tongue, throat, esophagus, and potentially the stomach lining,” Dr. Klein notes. The level of harm depends on the type and amount of detergent the dog consumes.
Even used dryer sheets can cause a blockage in a dog’s digestive tract, posing another health risk. While some dryer sheets may be marketed as “natural” or “organic,” all types can still harm dogs if ingested.
Signs Your Dog Ate a Dryer Sheet
If your dog has eaten a dryer sheet, look for symptoms of cationic agent exposure, including:
- Excessive salivation or drooling
- Gulping or difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting (possibly with blood)
- Signs of pain or discomfort
- Fever
In severe cases, ingesting cationic detergents can lead to additional health complications such as inflammation, respiratory issues, and kidney failure.
Let me know if you'd like advice on immediate steps to take if a dog ingests a dryer sheet!
What to Do if Your Dog Eats a Dryer Sheet
If you suspect your dog has ingested a dryer sheet, Dr. Klein advises that you first contact a veterinarian, an emergency vet hospital, or a pet poison control hotline. Two helpful resources are:
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
These hotlines are available 24/7, so keep them handy. Be prepared with the name of the dryer sheet product your dog consumed and follow the hotline or vet's instructions carefully.
Sometimes, they may recommend giving your dog milk or ice cream to help coat the stomach lining and dilute toxins before you head to the vet. However, do not attempt to induce vomiting without specific guidance from a vet or poison control expert. As Dr. Klein explains, substances like dryer sheets are corrosive and could cause more harm coming up than going down.
Treatment if Your Dog Ate a Dryer Sheet
Once at the vet’s, try to provide details on the number of dryer sheets ingested. Counting how many are missing from the box or package can help, as well as bringing the package or a picture of the ingredients list for reference.
Dr. Klein outlines that treatment will vary based on the dog’s exposure level and symptoms, but typically involves diluting the ingested toxins with milk or water. If severe throat injury has occurred, a veterinarian may need to perform a tracheotomy—a procedure that involves creating an opening in the windpipe to facilitate breathing.
Additionally, IV fluids are often necessary to help the body process the toxins. In extreme cases, dogs might need an esophagostomy tube, a feeding tube placed temporarily in the esophagus to ensure they receive nourishment while their throat heals.
Prompt action and veterinary care can greatly improve the outcome if a dog ingests a toxic substance like a dryer sheet.
Should You Use Dryer Sheets to Remove Dander?
It’s not advisable to use dryer sheets to remove loose hair and dander from your dog or the furniture they rest on. Dryer sheets reduce the static cling of hair and dander, but they do so by coating the items they touch with cationic ingredients, as well as fragrances and fabric softeners. These chemicals can be harmful if ingested by dogs.
“Dogs lick their fur and places where they rest, so using dryer sheets to repel dander may expose them to possible health risks,” reports Dr. Klein. “It’s much safer to control dander and excessive shedding through regular brushing with the proper grooming tools.” A lint brush, masking tape, or rubber squeegee can also effectively remove hair and dander from furniture and clothing.
How to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Dryer Sheets
If you have dogs and cats, the safest option is to avoid using dryer sheets altogether. However, if you do choose to use them, here are some steps you should take to protect your pets:
- Store dryer sheets, as well as all dangerous or toxic products, in drawers or cabinets that are out of your pets’ reach. You may need to secure them with a child lock.
- After using dryer sheets, throw them away immediately into a dog-proof garbage can.
- Make sure you remove all used dryer sheets from your clean laundry, laundry basket, and dryer. They often cling to sheets or clothes, and your dog may find them there.
- Keep the door to your washer, clothes dryer, and laundry room closed.
- Teach your dog the “leave it” command in case they pick up a dryer sheet.
- Provide your dog with safe, edible chews.
This advice is especially relevant for dog owners associated with the Canine Kennel Club (CKC), as maintaining your dog's health and safety is a top priority.