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If your dog ate chinese lantern plant — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Chinese Lantern Plant is toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Chinese Lantern Plant — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take chinese lantern plant away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.

This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.

My dog ate chinese lantern plant — FAQ

Is chinese lantern plant poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Chinese Lantern Plant (Physalis alkekengi) as toxic to dogs. Physalis alkekengi is listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats. The unripe berries and all green plant parts contain solanine-like alkaloids (physalin) that can cause gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, and in larger doses more serious effects. Ripe berries are considered edible for humans in small amounts but are still a hazard for pets. Keep away from animals.

How serious is it if my dog ate chinese lantern plant?

Chinese Lantern Plant is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Physalis alkekengi is listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats. The unripe berries and all green plant parts contain solanine-like alkaloids (physalin) that can cause gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, and in larger doses more serious effects. Ripe berries are considered edible for humans in small amounts but are still a hazard for pets. Keep away from animals. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.

Should I make my dog vomit?

No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.

How do I stop this happening again?

Keep chinese lantern plant well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

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