Is it toxic to dogs?
Geraniums
Pelargonium spp. · Geraniaceae
Also called Pelargonium, Zonal geranium, Scented geranium
Toxic to dogs
Severity: Mild
Yes. The ASPCA lists geranium (Pelargonium) as toxic to dogs. Eating it can cause vomiting, loss of appetite and depression, and the plant may irritate the skin.
- Toxic parts
- Leaves and other plant parts (the sources do not single out one part)
- Toxic compounds
- Geraniol, linalool
- Where you’ll find it
- House and garden
Signs of poisoning
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Depression or lethargy
- Skin irritation (dermatitis)
- Wobbliness or muscle weakness after larger amounts (ASPCA scented geranium entry)
Why it’s harmful to dogs
When most people say "geranium," they mean Pelargonium, the bright, pom-pom-flowered plants that fill window boxes and patio pots. Those are the plants the ASPCA lists, including scented-leaf varieties. Hardy "cranesbill" geraniums belong to a different genus, Geranium, and this page does not rate them.
The ASPCA names the essential oils geraniol and linalool as the toxic principles, with vomiting, appetite loss, depression and dermatitis as the signs. The AKC says all varieties are poisonous to dogs and adds lethargy, low blood pressure and skin rashes to the possibilities.
Geraniums are a classic windowsill and porch plant, which puts them right at dog nose height. A dog that nibbles a fragrant leaf can get a reaction, so it's worth keeping pots out of reach.
If your dog ate geraniums
Remove any leaf bits from your dog's mouth and move the pot away. Watch for vomiting, poor appetite and unusual tiredness, and check the skin around the mouth for redness.
Call your vet, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply), if your dog ate a large amount, keeps vomiting, is very sleepy, or develops a rash. Outside the US, call your local emergency vet. Don't try to make your dog vomit at home. Note the plant, the amount and the time.
Keeping your dog safe
Set geranium pots on high ledges and hang window boxes out of snout range. Pinch off dead leaves and sweep up fallen ones, since dogs love sniffing fragrant foliage.
If you like bright bedding color, petunias and African violets are friendlier alternatives. A dependable "leave it" on the patio will also help, and moving pots indoors for winter is a good moment to recheck where they sit.
Dog-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Are scented geraniums toxic to dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA has a separate scented geranium (Pelargonium) entry that lists it as toxic to dogs. It mainly causes stomach upset, though wobbliness, muscle weakness, depression or a low body temperature can follow larger exposures.
Are hardy geraniums (cranesbill) the same?
No. Hardy geraniums belong to the genus Geranium. The ASPCA entry covers Pelargonium, so ask your vet if your dog eats a cranesbill.
Why are geraniums toxic?
The ASPCA names the essential oils geraniol and linalool. They irritate the stomach and can cause a skin reaction.
Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy