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 Is Geranium Safe for Dogs? Identification, Symptoms & Next Steps.
Enter your dog's details for a straight answer sized to them.
Why Geranium needs caution
Geraniums (Pelargonium) contain essential oils, linalool and geraniol, that irritate the digestive tract and skin. ASPCA lists geranium as toxic to dogs, and larger ingestions can bring on more than stomach upset.
Signs to watch for
Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, decreased appetite, skin irritation; with larger ingestions, wobbliness, muscle weakness, or low body temperature
Related items
Check the exact item or ingredient before assuming two similar exposures carry the same risk.
What to do next
Signs are usually mild and pass on their own. Call your vet if your dog ate a large amount or seems weak or uncoordinated.
🚨Step-by-step: what to do in the first 10 minutes →Available 24/7. A consultation fee may apply.
A closer look at geranium
Geraniums (Pelargonium) contain essential oils, linalool and geraniol, that irritate the digestive tract and skin. ASPCA lists geranium as toxic to dogs, and larger ingestions can bring on more than stomach upset. The details below use the specific facts for this exposure, rather than treating it like every other plant question.
1. Start with the exact exposure
For a closely related comparison, read Garden Flowers and Shrubs. A nibbled leaf typically just causes mild stomach upset. Eating a large amount of the plant is what leads to the more serious signs.
2. Use the facts to decide whether to monitor or call
Another helpful reference is Heliotrope. Mild vomiting or diarrhea after a small nibble can usually be watched at home with access to water. If your dog ate a large portion of the plant, or shows weakness, wobbliness, or a drop in energy beyond typical stomach upset.
3. If the details are uncertain
Follow the first 10 minutes guide. Signs are usually mild and pass on their own. Call your vet if your dog ate a large amount or seems weak or uncoordinated.
FAQ
A nibbled leaf typically just causes mild stomach upset. Eating a large amount of the plant is what leads to the more serious signs.
Mild vomiting or diarrhea after a small nibble can usually be watched at home with access to water.
If your dog ate a large portion of the plant, or shows weakness, wobbliness, or a drop in energy beyond typical stomach upset.
- ASPCA APCC / Pet Poison Helpline
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: toxic and non-toxic plants
- Merck Veterinary Manual: overview of household hazard toxicoses in animals