### **Introduction**

The Algarve is one of the best places in Europe to explore with your dog.

Cliffside trails.  
Quiet forests.  
Open countryside.

But beneath all that beauty, there are a few **less obvious risks** that many dog owners (especially newcomers) don’t see coming.
Knowing what to look out for can make the difference between a great walk and an emergency vet visit.

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## **1. Pine Processionary Caterpillars (High Risk)**

These are one of the **most dangerous hazards** for dogs in Portugal.

They appear in:

* Pine forests  
* Woodland trails  
* Warmer months (typically late winter to spring)

### **Why they’re dangerous:**

Their tiny hairs contain a toxin that can cause:

* Severe swelling of the mouth and tongue  
* Vomiting  
* Difficulty breathing  
* Tissue damage (in serious cases)

### **What to look for:**

* Caterpillars moving in a line (procession)  
* Nests in pine trees (silk-like bundles)

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## **2. Grass Seeds (Foxtails)**

Small, sharp, and incredibly problematic.

They’re common in:

* Dry grasslands  
* Trail edges  
* Late spring and summer

### **Why they’re dangerous:**

They can lodge in:

* Noses  
* Ears  
* Eyes  
* Between toes

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## **Final Thoughts**

Walking your dog in the Algarve can be one of the best parts of living or visiting here.

But the best walks happen when you:

* Know what to look out for  
* Choose environments intentionally  
* Match the walk to your dog’s needs

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