Are Geraniums Poisonous to Dogs?

Many common garden plants are dangerous for dogs. Ingesting certain plants or flowers can make dogs very sick or can even cause death. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has ingested all or part of any plant to be certain it is not poisonous.

  1. Identification

    • The geranium is a member of the Geraniaceae family. Geraniums are popular plants and are most commonly produced from seed. Different types of geraniums grown by homeowners include the Elite, Orbit, Bandit, Cherry Blossom and Pink Satisfaction.

    Significance

    • Geraniums are poisonous to household pets such as dogs and cats. Adverse reactions often occur upon ingestion of this plant because geraniums contain the substance geraniol, which typically causes skin irritation in dogs. The substance linalool is found in geraniums and causes stomach distress as well.

    Effects

    • Symptoms occur within minutes to a few hours after the dog ingests the geranium or rolls in the geranium bed. According to the ASPCA, symptoms of geranium poisoning in dogs includes depression, anorexia, vomiting and dermatitis.