Yes, carnations are mildly toxic to dogs
Carnations are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. The exact irritant is unknown, but signs are usually mild and limited to the stomach and skin.
Carnations and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Dianthus caryophyllus |
| Also called | pinks, sweet William, clove pink |
| Toxic compound | Unidentified irritant compounds |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Flower |
Symptoms of carnations poisoning in dogs
- Mild vomiting and diarrhea
- Drooling
- Mild skin irritation (dermatitis)
Why carnations are toxic to dogs
The specific toxin has not been well characterized, but the plant irritates the gut and sometimes the skin.
What to do if your dog ate carnations
- Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
- Watch for mild vomiting and diarrhea, drooling, mild skin irritation. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Supportive care is usually enough. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day.
How to keep your dog away from carnations
- Place carnations on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
- In the garden, fence off beds, supervise dogs that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.
Pet-safe alternatives to carnations
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:
- LiliesNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- PetuniasNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for dogs.
Carnations and dogs: FAQ
Are carnations poisonous to dogs?
Carnations are mildly toxic to dogs. Unidentified irritant compounds can cause mild vomiting and diarrhea and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of carnations is toxic to dogs?
All parts.
Can dogs die from eating carnations?
It is very unlikely. Carnations usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating carnations will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are carnations toxic to cats too?
Yes, carnations are mildly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly toxic
- HydrangeasMildly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.