Pet emergency
My dog ate Geranium pratense — what to do
Step by step
- Take geranium pratense away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- 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 geranium pratense — FAQ
Is geranium pratense poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Geranium pratense (Geranium pratense) as mildly toxic to dogs. True Geranium (hardy cranesbill) is a different genus from the ASPCA-listed toxic 'Geranium' entry, which is actually Pelargonium (toxic principles geraniol and linalool). G. pratense is not individually listed by the ASPCA; while hardy cranesbills are widely regarded as non-toxic, treat with caution and verify with a vet before assuming pet-safe.
How serious is it if my dog ate geranium pratense?
Geranium pratense is mildly toxic, so most dogs get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your dog ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. True Geranium (hardy cranesbill) is a different genus from the ASPCA-listed toxic 'Geranium' entry, which is actually Pelargonium (toxic principles geraniol and linalool). G. pratense is not individually listed by the ASPCA; while hardy cranesbills are widely regarded as non-toxic, treat with caution and verify with a vet before assuming pet-safe. 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 geranium pratense well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is geranium pratense toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Geranium pratense and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide