Is Peppermint Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compound in peppermint:

• Essential oils (including menthol and menthone)

If your dog ate peppermint, watch for:

• •Vomiting (especially with large ingestions)
• •Diarrhea (especially with large ingestions)
• •Gastrointestinal upset

Is the peppermint plant toxic to dogs?

Yes. The ASPCA lists mint (Mentha sp., which includes peppermint) as toxic to dogs. The toxic principle is essential oils. In practice, a dog nibbling a leaf or two usually causes little more than mild stomach upset, but larger ingestions can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It is best to keep dogs from grazing on peppermint plants.

Is peppermint essential oil dangerous for dogs?

Yes, and far more so than the plant itself. VCA Animal Hospitals lists peppermint oil among essential oils that are poisonous to dogs. Concentrated peppermint oil can cause drooling, vomiting, lethargy, muscle tremors, difficulty breathing, uncoordinated walking, skin/mouth irritation, and in serious cases central nervous system depression or liver damage. Both ingestion and skin contact can be harmful, so never apply undiluted peppermint oil to a dog or use diffusers in poorly ventilated spaces around pets.

My dog ate some peppermint candy or a peppermint leaf. What should I watch for?

A small amount of fresh peppermint leaf typically causes at most mild, self-limiting vomiting or diarrhea. The bigger concern with peppermint candies, gums, and breath mints is xylitol, a sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Check the ingredient label: if it contains xylitol (sometimes labeled 'birch sugar'), treat it as an emergency. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or stumbling, and contact your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if signs appear or if xylitol may be involved.

• ASPCA - Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Mint (Mentha sp.)
• VCA Animal Hospitals - Essential Oil and Liquid Potpourri Poisoning in Dogs

Last updated 2026-06-25