Is 'Jalapeño' Pepper toxic to dogs?

Yes — 'jalapeño' pepper is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Capsicum annuum is a Solanaceae nightshade; the ASPCA lists ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) as toxic to cats and dogs, with solanine in the foliage as the toxic principle, causing gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. Beyond this, the capsaicin in jalapeño pods is a strong irritant to pets' mouths, eyes, and gut, so keep both plant and fruit away from cats and dogs.

Capsicum annuum is a Solanaceae nightshade; the ASPCA lists ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) as toxic to cats and dogs, with solanine in the foliage as the toxic principle, causing gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. Beyond this, the capsaicin in jalapeño pods is a strong irritant to pets' mouths, eyes, and gut, so keep both plant and fruit away from cats and dogs. 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 'jalapeño' pepper.

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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: 'Jalapeño' Pepper is toxic to cats as well. See the full 'jalapeño' pepper pet-safety guide for both species.

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.