Are Jalapeno Leaves Poisonous to Dogs?

Known for their spicy fruit, jalapeno pepper plants (Capsicum annuum) are a cultivar of the chili pepper species, which originated in Mexico. These herbaceous perennials grow both indoors and outdoors, primarily in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. Although the fruits add zesty flavor to human foods, they and the plants themselves are considered mildly toxic to canine companions.

  1. Jalapeno Peppers

    • Jalapeno peppers are members of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) and produce small white, non-showy flowers and beautiful, tapered ornamental berries. Immature fruits appear green and ripen to vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red. Although considered an herbaceous perennial, the plants also grow as annuals. These plants thrive in warm, humid weather in rich, well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Fully grown jalapenos can reach up to 2 1/2 feet high and 2 feet wide. Pinch young plants to encourage branching, and stake taller mature plants to help provide them with support. Mulch plants to protect their roots and insulate them from temperatures cooler than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Toxicity

    • All members of the Capsicum species, including jalapeno peppers, are considered moderately toxic to both people and pets, according to the California Poison Control System. The plants themselves are not only considered somewhat toxic if ingested, but they can also cause dermatitis, a type of painful rash of the skin, when handled. The Merck Veterinary Manual warns that the leaves contain chemicals called solanine and scopoletin, both of which can irritate a pup's gastrointestinal tract, causing vomiting, diarrhea and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat. Poisoning is generally mild if a pooch eats only a small amount of plant matter, and it won't cause any permanent after-effects.

    Treatment

    • If your pup has been munching on jalapeno plants, consult with a vet. Depending on the amount of leaves or fruit the dog has eaten, the vet may recommend bringing the dog in for treatment, such as the rinsing of its mouth and supportive care for its upset stomach. In some cases, the dog may require an analgesic cream to treat skin rashes or blisters caused by contact with the pepper plants. North Carolina State University states that severe toxicity only occurs if very large amounts of the plants are eaten by people or pets. This is generally rare in dogs, which are repelled by the smell of capsaicin, the toxin found in peppers.

    Considerations

    • Wear gloves when handling jalapeno pepper plants and remove them before touching Fido. This prevents you from accidentally transferring the plant's natural oils onto your dog's skin or face, which can cause irritation. Keep pepper plants in a part of your garden that your dog can't access or accidentally walk through. Although most dogs avoid the strong scent of capsaicin, rambunctious dogs could accidentally run through easily accessed plants, irritating their skin, eyes or nose during play. Keep indoor jalapeno plants out of a dog's reach by placing them on shelves or in a room the pup can't access.