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If your dog ate roman wormwood — 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.

Roman Wormwood is mildly toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Roman Wormwood — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take roman wormwood 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 roman wormwood — FAQ

Is roman wormwood poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Roman Wormwood (Artemisia pontica) as mildly toxic to dogs. Artemisia pontica contains thujone and other volatile compounds and is classified in the same genus as tarragon (A. dracunculus), which ASPCA lists as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (essential oils; vomiting, diarrhea). A. pontica is not individually listed by ASPCA but should be treated as mildly toxic by genus association. The plant also has historic use as an absinthe ingredient, confirming potent biological activity.

How serious is it if my dog ate roman wormwood?

Roman Wormwood 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. Artemisia pontica contains thujone and other volatile compounds and is classified in the same genus as tarragon (A. dracunculus), which ASPCA lists as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (essential oils; vomiting, diarrhea). A. pontica is not individually listed by ASPCA but should be treated as mildly toxic by genus association. The plant also has historic use as an absinthe ingredient, confirming potent biological activity. 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 roman wormwood well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

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