Are Marigolds Hazardous to Dogs?

Marigolds, a common sight during spring and summer, could poison your dog. Marigolds' sap cells may cause superficial redness and itching in humans, but dogs react much more violently to the substance. If your dog tends to eat or chew on plants, be aware of the hazards posed by marigolds, and be prepared to take action if your dog mistakes them for lunch.

  1. Characteristics of Marigolds

    • Beautiful marigolds are hazardous to dogs.

      Native to South America, marigolds grow well in many climates, so gardeners often plant them in the spring to fill in their flower gardens. Marigolds are inexpensive, easy to grow and keep aphids away from garden vegetables like tomatoes. The flowers, roots, leaves and stems of marigolds all contain phototoxic thiophene derivatives, which are poisonous to many living creatures. Although these derivatives are not poisonous to humans, they can cause redness and itching. For many animals, however, the reaction is much more severe.

    Dogs' Reactions to Marigolds

    • Dogs react to marigold poisoning by vomiting.

      If a dog ingests any part of a marigold, it will usually respond by vomiting. The marigold's cell sap irritates the inside of the dog's mouth, pharynx and esophagus. Once the irritation has begun, the dog's body responds by producing excessive saliva and swelling. A skin rash may also develop around the dog's mouth.

    Treatment

    • Take your dog to the vet if you suspect marigold poisoning.

      If you suspect that your dog has ingested marigolds and if you notice any symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. If your vet is not available, call an emergency vet. It's important to get treatment quickly before the toxins damage internal organs. Depending on how much your dog has ingested, the vet may administer antihistamines or other drugs to counter the effects of the marigold's cell sap. After the initial treatment, the vet will probably advise a bland diet of cooked rice for several days before reintroducing proteins.

    Prevention

    • Keep your dog on a leash so he doesn't eat unfamiliar plants.

      The best prevention is to not plant marigolds in your yard if your dog is prone to chewing on or eating plants. Choose other low-maintenance annuals that are benign to dogs, such as petunias, violets, snapdragons and impatiens. When you have your dog out for walks, keep an eye out for marigolds, and never let him chew on plants in the park or in other yards.