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Is Geranium sanguineum toxic to dogs?

Geranium sanguineum

Mildly toxic to dogs

Mildly. The ASPCA lists geranium sanguineum as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Geranium sanguineum belongs to the true Geranium genus (cranesbills), which the ASPCA does not individually list as toxic or non-toxic. It is frequently confused with the ASPCA-listed toxic 'geranium', Pelargonium species (toxic principles geraniol and linalool). Without an affirmative ASPCA non-toxic listing, treat with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming pet-safe.

What to do if your dog ate geranium sanguineum

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move geranium sanguineum out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of geranium sanguineum to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has eaten geranium sanguineum, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is geranium sanguineum toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is geranium sanguineum toxic to dogs?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists geranium sanguineum as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Geranium sanguineum belongs to the true Geranium genus (cranesbills), which the ASPCA does not individually list as toxic or non-toxic. It is frequently confused with the ASPCA-listed toxic 'geranium', Pelargonium species (toxic principles geraniol and linalool). Without an affirmative ASPCA non-toxic listing, treat with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming pet-safe.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats geranium sanguineum?

Geranium sanguineum belongs to the true Geranium genus (cranesbills), which the ASPCA does not individually list as toxic or non-toxic. It is frequently confused with the ASPCA-listed toxic 'geranium', Pelargonium species (toxic principles geraniol and linalool). Without an affirmative ASPCA non-toxic listing, treat with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming pet-safe. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your dog has had access to geranium sanguineum.

What should I do if my dog ate geranium sanguineum?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

Is geranium sanguineum toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Geranium sanguineum is mildly toxic to cats as well. See the full geranium sanguineum pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to geranium sanguineum?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full geranium sanguineum pet-safety