Are Marigolds Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compound in marigolds:

• Irritant sap/plant compounds (Tagetes spp.) causing gastrointestinal and dermal/contact irritation

If your dog ate marigolds, watch for:

• •Mild irritation of the gastrointestinal tract when ingested (e.g. drooling, vomiting, diarrhea)
• •Skin (dermal) irritation from contact with the plant sap

Are marigolds poisonous to dogs?

It depends on the type. Common garden marigolds (Tagetes species, the French and African marigolds) are listed by the Pet Poison Helpline as mildly toxic — they can cause mild stomach upset if eaten and skin irritation from the sap. 'Pot marigold' or 'garden marigold' (Calendula officinalis) is a different plant that the ASPCA lists as non-toxic to dogs. Since most garden marigolds are Tagetes, it's safest to treat marigolds as mildly toxic and keep dogs from eating them.

My dog ate marigold flowers or leaves. What should I do?

For Tagetes marigolds, expect at most mild, self-limiting gastrointestinal irritation such as drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. Offer water and monitor for 12-24 hours. Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent, if your dog becomes lethargic or stops eating, or if a large amount was eaten — especially in a small dog. Also check whether the plant was treated with pesticide, fertilizer, or slug bait, as those chemicals are the bigger risk.

Can marigold sap hurt my dog's skin or paws?

Yes, it can. The sap of Tagetes marigolds may cause mild skin (dermal) irritation on contact. If your dog brushes against or chews the plant and shows redness, itching, or irritation around the mouth, paws, or skin, rinse the area with water and watch it. See a vet if the irritation is significant or doesn't settle.

• Pet Poison Helpline — Marigold (Tagetes spp. and Calendula officinalis)
• ASPCA — Garden Marigold (Calendula officinalis), Non-Toxic to Dogs

Last updated 2026-06-25