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Toxic: keep away from dogs

DogSafe severity score
8/10

Automatic dishwasher detergents can be strongly alkaline and corrosive.

Call a vet or poison control now. Do not wait for symptoms.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. A consultation fee may apply.

Source-backed guidance. Not individualized veterinary advice.(more)

Compiled from veterinary poison-control and medical references, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, and Merck Veterinary Manual.

Part of our guide to My Dog Ate Dishwasher Detergent: What to Do Next.

Check Dishwasher Detergent for your dog

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Why Dishwasher Detergent is dangerous

Automatic dishwasher detergents can be strongly alkaline and corrosive. They can burn the mouth, throat, stomach, skin, and eyes, especially concentrated pods and powders.

Signs to watch for

Drooling, mouth pain, vomiting, coughing, swallowing trouble, eye redness or pain

Related items

Check the exact item or ingredient before assuming two similar exposures carry the same risk.

Dicamba Weed KillerDrain CleanerConcentrated Drain OpenerGasolineCommercial Oven and Grill CleanerGlyphosate ConcentrateCoins / PenniesImidacloprid Lawn GranulesCLR Calcium Lime and Rust RemoverIndoor Insect Fogger

What to do next

Do not induce vomiting. If eyes or skin were exposed, gently rinse with running water while you arrange veterinary or poison-control guidance.

🚨Step-by-step: what to do in the first 10 minutes →
Animal poison control
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Available 24/7. A consultation fee may apply.

A closer look at dishwasher detergent

Automatic dishwasher detergents can be strongly alkaline and corrosive. They can burn the mouth, throat, stomach, skin, and eyes, especially concentrated pods and powders. The details below use the specific facts for this exposure, rather than treating it like every other househol question.

1. Start with the exact exposure

For a closely related comparison, read Dicamba Weed Killer. Any chewed pod, powder, or liquid detergent exposure needs prompt assessment. The product label and whether it was swallowed or splashed matter.

2. Use the facts to decide whether to monitor or call

Another helpful reference is Drain Cleaner. Do not induce vomiting or give food, charcoal, or another product unless a veterinarian or poison specialist directs you. Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center with the exact product or plant, amount, time, and your dog's weight.

3. If the details are uncertain

Follow the first 10 minutes guide. Do not induce vomiting. If eyes or skin were exposed, gently rinse with running water while you arrange veterinary or poison-control guidance.

FAQ

How much Dishwasher Detergent is dangerous?

Any chewed pod, powder, or liquid detergent exposure needs prompt assessment. The product label and whether it was swallowed or splashed matter.

Can I treat this at home?

Do not induce vomiting or give food, charcoal, or another product unless a veterinarian or poison specialist directs you.

When should I call the vet?

Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center with the exact product or plant, amount, time, and your dog's weight.

Sources
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — Household Hazards
Read DogSafe's sources and review policy →
Compiled from veterinary poison-control and medical reference sources, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the Pet Poison Helpline, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for examination by your veterinarian. DogSafe's severity ratings are our own assessment, calculated from published guidance and your dog's weight. In an emergency, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.