Is Corn Cockle Toxic to Dogs?
Also known as: Purple Cockle, Corn Campion, Poison Iris · Agrostemma githago
What makes it toxic
Githagin and other saponins plus agrostemmic acid, spread through the plant and concentrated in seeds. They inflame the gut lining and, at higher doses, damage the nervous system.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling and belly pain within a few hours; larger seed ingestions can bring trembling, weakness and loss of coordination.
What to do if your dog eats it
Take the plant away, offer water and call your vet — promptly so if seed heads were swallowed. Do not wait out repeated vomiting or stumbling.
Common questions
A dog ate grain-field weeds including corn cockle — how serious?
Corn cockle historically contaminated grain fields, and significant seed intake has poisoned livestock. Describe the amount eaten to your vet; the seed load drives the severity.
Do cooking or drying reduce the toxin?
No reliable home step makes it safe, and dried plant material keeps its saponins. Treat fresh, dried and seed forms all as off-limits.
More plants checked for dogs
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.