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Is Geranium Toxic to Dogs?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Mild
✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit
⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.
Yes, geraniums are mildly toxic to dogs. Chewing the leaves can cause drooling and stomach upset, and crushed-leaf oils can irritate skin.

Also known as: Pelargonium, Scented Geranium, Storksbill · Pelargonium graveolens

What makes it toxic

Essential-oil constituents such as geraniol and linalool in the foliage, which irritate the gut and skin on contact.

Warning signs to watch for

Vomiting, drooling, reduced appetite and occasionally itchy, red skin after brushing against or chewing the plant.

What to do if your dog eats it

Remove the plant material, offer water and monitor. Call your vet if vomiting persists or a skin reaction spreads; most cases need no treatment.

Common questions

My dog chewed a geranium on a walk — worry?

Usually not — expect a mild tummy upset at most. Watch for repeated vomiting and call the vet if it continues.

Are geraniums safe to plant where dogs roam?

It is a low-risk bedding plant, but dogs that graze ornamentals can still get a day of GI upset. Choose placement with your dog’s habits in mind.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals thaAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain coSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk ofEaster Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal kiSago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untreBoston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs. Chewing a frond will not poison your dog.

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.