When you think about dog walks in the UK countryside, you're more likely to picture rolling hills, muddy paws, and the occasional squirrel—not snakes. But every now and then, a pet owner finds themselves in a terrifying situation: their dog has been bitten by a snake. What do you do? Which snakes should you be worried about? And how do you prevent it from happening again? This guide has you covered.
Can a Snake Really Bite My Dog on a Walk?
Yes, although rare, dogs can and do get bitten by snakes while out exploring. In the UK, the only native venomous snake is the adder (Vipera berus). Adders are not aggressive by nature. They're shy creatures and typically slither away at the first sign of trouble. But if your dog, in true dog fashion, decides to poke its curious nose into a bush where an adder is basking, that snake may bite in self-defence.
Most bites occur between March and October, when adders are more active. Walks near heathlands, dunes, and moorlands increase the chances of encounters.
True Stories from UK Dog Owners
Sally from Cornwall: “We were walking along the cliffs in St Agnes when my spaniel, Poppy, yelped and started limping. I thought it was a thorn, but her leg began swelling rapidly. We rushed her to the vet, and it turned out she’d been bitten by an adder. Thankfully, she recovered after antivenom and a few days of rest.”
Mark from Surrey: “My Labrador, George, got too close to some reeds by a riverbank. Next thing I know, he’s frantically pawing at his face. The vet confirmed it was a dry bite—no venom injected—but it was a reminder to keep him on a lead in those areas.”
Types of Snakes in the UK
- Adder (Vipera berus): The UK's only venomous snake. Zigzag pattern on its back. Bites can be dangerous and require urgent care.
- Grass Snake (Natrix helvetica): Non-venomous, usually found near water. Often mistaken for adders but completely harmless.
- Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca): Rare and non-venomous. Lives in southern heathlands, and very unlikely to bite.
Signs Your Dog May Have Been Bitten by a Snake
- Sudden yelp or whimper
- Swelling (often on the face or limbs)
- Pain or limping
- Pale gums
- Weakness, collapse, or lethargy
If you suspect a bite, don’t wait—act immediately.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Bitten
- Stay Calm: Your dog will pick up on your anxiety.
- Keep Your Dog Still: Carry them if possible—movement spreads venom faster.
- Call Your Vet Immediately: Let them know you’re coming in with a suspected snake bite. They may need to prepare antivenom.
- Do Not: Suck the venom, apply ice, or tourniquets. Leave it to the professionals.
- Keep the Bitten Area Below Heart Level: This slows venom spread.
Veterinary Treatment: What to Expect
Depending on the severity, your dog may receive:
- Antivenom (especially if symptoms are severe)
- IV fluids
- Pain relief
- Antihistamines or steroids
- Hospital monitoring for 24–48 hours
Recovery time varies. Many dogs bounce back within a few days, though some may have swelling or fatigue for longer.
How to Prevent Snake Bites on Walks
- Stick to main paths and avoid letting your dog run through brambles, long grass, or undergrowth.
- Keep dogs on a lead in high-risk areas like moorlands, dunes, and woodland edges.
- Be especially cautious on warm, sunny days—snakes love to bask in the open.
- Teach your dog good recall. Products like the Calmshops remote training collar can help reinforce control off-lead.
- Carry a mobile and know your closest emergency vet.
When Is It a False Alarm?
Sometimes a dog’s sudden reaction might be a bee sting, thorn, or wasp rather than a snake bite. However, if you notice rapid swelling, weakness, or vomiting, treat it as a potential emergency and get professional help.
Natural Reactions and Recovery Stories
Many dogs recover well from snake bites with prompt care. But the emotional toll on owners can be high.
Lucy from Yorkshire: “After Toby was bitten, I felt so guilty—like I should have known better. But our vet reassured me we did everything right. He was back to his bouncy self in three days.”
Veterinarian Insight: Dr. Emily Harris, a vet based in Somerset, notes, “We treat around 10–20 adder bites each year, especially in early summer. Fast action is the key. Dogs often make full recoveries if treated within the first few hours.”
FAQ: Snake Bites in Dogs (UK Specific)
- Is an adder bite fatal? Rarely, but small or elderly dogs are more vulnerable. Always treat it as an emergency.
- Are snake bites painful? Yes. Dogs may yelp, limp, or be visibly distressed.
- Can I give my dog anything on the way to the vet? No medications unless instructed by a vet. Just keep them calm and still.
Final Bark
Adder bites are a frightening experience, but with quick action and awareness, they don’t have to be fatal. Educate yourself, remain vigilant on walks, and equip yourself with the tools to keep your pup safe. Products like training collars or GPS leads from Calmshops can enhance control and response, especially in unpredictable outdoor environments.
