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No known toxic dose: safe in sensible amounts

Is Lemon Balm toxic to dogs? ASPCA lists it as non-toxic, though a large chew can still upset a dog's stomach.

Part of our guide to Is Lemon Balm Safe for Dogs? The Complete Owner Guide.

Check Lemon Balm for your dog

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

Generally safe in sensible amounts. The check below is for peace of mind.

Why Lemon Balm is safe

ASPCA lists Lemon Balm as non-toxic to dogs. Even non-toxic plant material can still cause mild vomiting or digestive upset after chewing, and potting soil, fertilizer, and pesticides are separate hazards.

Part of the Lily guide

For related dog-safety questions and product-by-product answers, see the complete lily guide.

Identify the exact plant

Common names overlap. A photo of the whole plant, leaf, flower, berry, label, and any fallen pieces gives a veterinarian or poison specialist more useful information than a common name alone.

Check the pot too

Fertilizer, insecticide, pesticide, decorative stones, and standing water are separate hazards even when the plant itself is not toxic.

Signs to watch for

Mild vomiting, loose stool, drooling, or temporary stomach upset after a large chew

Related items

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

What to do next

Take a clear photo of the plant and label, remove access, note the amount and time, and contact a veterinarian or animal poison control for symptoms or uncertainty.

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

A closer look at lemon balm

ASPCA lists Lemon Balm as non-toxic to dogs. Even non-toxic plant material can still cause mild vomiting or digestive upset after chewing, and potting soil, fertilizer, and pesticides are separate hazards. 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 Lily. The plant itself is not expected to be poisonous, but a large amount of any plant material can upset the stomach.

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

Another helpful reference is Aloe Vera. Offer water and watch for mild stomach upset. Check the pot and surrounding area for fertilizer, pesticides, or treated mulch. Call if vomiting is repeated, your dog seems unwell, the plant was treated with chemicals, or you are unsure of the identification.

3. If the details are uncertain

Follow the first 10 minutes guide. Take a clear photo of the plant and label, remove access, note the amount and time, and contact a veterinarian or animal poison control for symptoms or uncertainty.

FAQ

How much Lemon Balm is dangerous?

The plant itself is not expected to be poisonous, but a large amount of any plant material can upset the stomach.

Can I treat this at home?

Offer water and watch for mild stomach upset. Check the pot and surrounding area for fertilizer, pesticides, or treated mulch.

When should I call the vet?

Call if vomiting is repeated, your dog seems unwell, the plant was treated with chemicals, or you are unsure of the identification.

My dog chewed Lemon Balm. Should I induce vomiting?

No. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison specialist specifically tells you to. Keep a photo or sample and call if the plant may be toxic or your dog has symptoms.

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.