HomeHouseholdWD-40
🛢️
Toxic: keep away from dogs

DogSafe severity score
5/10

A petroleum-based product; the real danger is aspiration into the lungs if swallowed or vomited.

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.

Part of our guide to Dog Got Into WD-40: Exposure Guide, Symptoms & What to Do.

Check WD-40 for your dog

Enter your dog's details for a straight answer sized to them.

Why WD-40 is dangerous

A petroleum-based product; the real danger is aspiration into the lungs if swallowed or vomited.

Signs to watch for

Coughing, gagging, trouble breathing, drooling

Related items

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

What to do next

Contact your vet; do NOT induce vomiting.

🚨Step-by-step: what to do in the first 10 minutes →
Animal poison control

A closer look at wd-40

A petroleum-based product; the real danger is aspiration into the lungs if swallowed or vomited. 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 Tire Shine. Small skin contact is minor; ingestion risks chemical pneumonia.

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

Another helpful reference is Acne Cream. None for ingestion, and don't induce vomiting (raises lung risk). Any ingestion, especially with coughing or trouble breathing.

3. If the details are uncertain

Follow the first 10 minutes guide. Contact your vet; do NOT induce vomiting.

FAQ

How much WD-40 is dangerous?

Small skin contact is minor; ingestion risks chemical pneumonia.

Can I treat this at home?

None for ingestion, and don't induce vomiting (raises lung risk).

When should I call the vet?

Any ingestion, especially with coughing or trouble breathing.

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.