Is it toxic to dogs?
Mint
Mentha spp. · Lamiaceae
Also called Garden mint, Peppermint, Spearmint
Toxic to dogs
Severity: Mild
Yes, but only mildly. The ASPCA lists mint as toxic to dogs, with vomiting and diarrhea after large amounts. A nibbled leaf is unlikely to cause harm, though mint products with xylitol and concentrated oils are far more serious.
- Toxic parts
- Leaves and stems (the sources do not single out one part)
- Toxic compounds
- Essential oils
- Where you’ll find it
- House and garden
Signs of poisoning
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (with large ingestions)
Why it’s harmful to dogs
Mint is the sprawling, fragrant herb that takes over garden beds and pots, and it comes in peppermint, spearmint and many other flavors. The ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs because of its essential oils, with vomiting and diarrhea after large amounts.
PetMD says a small amount of plain peppermint leaves isn't likely to harm most healthy dogs, but leaves can still cause vomiting, diarrhea or appetite changes. The bigger dangers sit next to the plant. Pet Poison Helpline warns that mint candy, gum and toothpaste may contain xylitol, a sweetener that is dangerous for dogs; see xylitol. Concentrated peppermint oil is irritating and, in high doses, may cause tremors or seizures, according to PetMD.
Pennyroyal, a member of the mint family, has a worse reputation: PetMD says its oil can cause severe liver damage, and the Merck Veterinary Manual lists it as potentially harmful to the liver.
If your dog ate mint
A few plain leaves usually call for watching: look for vomiting, diarrhea and a poor appetite, and call your vet if signs persist.
Call your vet right away, 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 mint candy, gum, toothpaste or a product with xylitol, any essential oil, or a lot of plant. Pet Poison Helpline says xylitol exposure needs veterinary care right away. Outside the US, call your local emergency vet. Don't try to make your dog vomit at home.
Keeping your dog safe
Grow mint in a pot on a shelf rather than in open beds, where it spreads and tempts. Keep mint candy, gum and toothpaste in closed cupboards and essential oils well out of reach.
If you want a pet-friendly herb garden, basil and rosemary are pet-safer choices. A good "leave it" helps in the kitchen and the garden, and so does wiping up spills from mint-flavored products.
Dog-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog eat a mint leaf?
PetMD says a small amount of plain peppermint leaf isn't likely to harm most healthy dogs, but it can cause stomach upset. The ASPCA still lists the plant as toxic, so don't offer it as a treat.
What about mint candy and gum?
These may contain xylitol, which is dangerous for dogs. Treat suspected ingestion as an emergency and call your vet or a poison hotline.
Is pennyroyal safe because it is a mint?
No. PetMD says pennyroyal oil can be toxic to dogs and cause severe liver damage.
Is peppermint oil safe for dogs?
PetMD says peppermint oil is highly concentrated and can irritate the skin, mouth or stomach. At high doses it may cause tremors or seizures.
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