Is Mint Toxic to Dogs? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, mint is mildly toxic to dogs

The ASPCA lists garden mint as toxic to cats and dogs because its essential oils can cause vomiting and diarrhea when large amounts are eaten. A leaf or two is unlikely to cause problems. Peppermint essential oil is much more concentrated and should not be used on pets. Pennyroyal, a type of mint, is especially toxic to the liver.

Mint and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Mentha spp.
Also called	spearmint, peppermint, garden mint
Toxic compound	Essential oils (e.g. linalool, menthol, eucalyptol)
Toxic parts	Leaves and stems; peppermint oil is far more concentrated
Signs usually start	Within hours; faster with concentrated oils
Plant type	Herb

Symptoms of mint poisoning in dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhea
With essential oil: drooling, breathing irritation, wobbliness

Why mint 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 mint

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 vomiting, diarrhea, with essential oil: drooling, breathing irritation, wobbliness. 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 mint

Place mint 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 mint

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.

Mint and dogs: FAQ

Is mint poisonous to dogs?

Mint is mildly toxic to dogs. Essential oils (e.g. linalool, menthol, eucalyptol) can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of mint is toxic to dogs?

Leaves and stems; peppermint oil is far more concentrated.

Can dogs die from eating mint?

It is very unlikely. Mint 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 mint will my dog show symptoms?

Within hours; faster with concentrated oils.

Is mint toxic to cats too?

Yes, mint is mildly toxic to cats.

Is peppermint oil safe for cats and dogs?

No. Do not apply peppermint oil to pets or let them lick it. Cats are especially sensitive. Signs include drooling, vomiting, breathing irritation and 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 Mint Toxic to Dogs?