Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, peonies are mildly toxic to dogs

Peonies contain paeonol, which is most concentrated in the bark and roots. Eating a few petals usually causes mild stomach upset at most.

Peonies and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Paeonia officinalis
Toxic compound	Paeonol
Toxic parts	All parts, most concentrated in the bark and roots
Signs usually start	Usually within a few hours
Plant type	Flower

Symptoms of peonies poisoning in dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Depression

Why peonies are toxic to dogs

Paeonol is concentrated in the bark and roots and irritates the stomach and intestines.

What to do if your dog ate peonies

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, depression. 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 for stomach upset. Large amounts of root or bark should be discussed with your vet.

How to keep your dog away from peonies

Place peonies 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 peonies

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

See the full list of plants safe for dogs.

Peonies and dogs: FAQ

Are peonies poisonous to dogs?

Peonies are mildly toxic to dogs. Paeonol can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of peonies is toxic to dogs?

All parts, most concentrated in the bark and roots.

Can dogs die from eating peonies?

It is very unlikely. Peonies 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 peonies will my dog show symptoms?

Usually within a few hours.

Are peonies toxic to cats too?

Yes, peonies are mildly toxic to cats.

Other plants toxic to 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.

Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs?