Is Lavender Toxic to Dogs? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, lavender is mildly toxic to dogs

The ASPCA lists lavender as toxic to cats and dogs because it contains linalool and linalyl acetate. A nibble of the plant usually causes no more than mild stomach upset. The bigger risk is concentrated lavender essential oil, especially for cats.

Lavender and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Lavandula angustifolia
Also called	English lavender, common lavender
Toxic compound	Essential oils (e.g. linalool, menthol, eucalyptol)
Toxic parts	Flowers and leaves; lavender essential oil is far more concentrated
Signs usually start	Within hours; faster with concentrated oils
Plant type	Herb

What dog owners should know

A diffuser running briefly in a large, ventilated room is unlikely to harm most dogs, but never apply undiluted lavender oil to a dog or let it lick oil. Dogs with breathing problems may be more sensitive.

Symptoms of lavender poisoning in dogs

Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Constipation (dried lavender)
With essential oil: drooling, wobbliness, breathing irritation

Why lavender is toxic to dogs

The plant contains aromatic essential oils. Eating a little of the fresh plant usually causes only stomach upset. Concentrated essential oils are far more potent and are absorbed through the skin and lungs as well as the gut.

What to do if your dog ate lavender

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 nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

For the plant, supportive care is usually enough. For essential oil exposure, wash oil off the skin with dish soap, do not induce vomiting (oils can be inhaled into the lungs), and call your vet or poison control.

How to keep your dog away from lavender

Place lavender 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.

Pet-safe alternatives to lavender

If you love growing herbs, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for dogs.

Lavender and dogs: FAQ

Is lavender poisonous to dogs?

Lavender is mildly toxic to dogs. Essential oils (e.g. linalool, menthol, eucalyptol) can cause nausea and vomiting and loss of appetite, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of lavender is toxic to dogs?

Flowers and leaves; lavender essential oil is far more concentrated.

Can dogs die from eating lavender?

It is very unlikely. Lavender usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating lavender will my dog show symptoms?

Within hours; faster with concentrated oils.

Is lavender toxic to cats too?

Yes, lavender is mildly toxic to cats.

Is a lavender diffuser safe for pets?

It is a risk, especially for cats. If you diffuse oils, use them briefly in a well-ventilated room the pet can leave, and stop if you see drooling, coughing or wobbliness.

Other plants toxic to dogs

Using essential oils at home? Read are essential oils safe for dogs?

Sources

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.

Is Lavender Toxic to Dogs?