Are Poinsettias Poisonous to Dogs?
Euphorbia pulcherrima · Euphorbiaceae
Mildly ToxicAlso toxic to cats
Poinsettias are mildly toxic to dogs.
Why it's toxic
The toxic compounds in poinsettias:
- Irritant milky sap (latex)
- Diterpenoid euphorbol esters
- Saponin-like detergents
Symptoms to watch for
If your dog ate poinsettias, watch for:
- Drooling
- Licking lips
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Irritation to the mouth and stomach
- Skin irritation on contact (redness, swelling, itchiness)
What to do if your dog ate it
- 1Remove your dog's access to the poinsettias and check how much may have been eaten.
- 2Do NOT induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison-control expert specifically tells you to.
- 3Call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435, or the Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 right away.
- 4Note the amount eaten, the time, and your dog's weight and any symptoms — have this ready for the expert.
- 5Follow professional guidance and go to the nearest emergency vet if you are advised to.
A consultation fee may apply to the Pet Poison Helpline. When in doubt, contact your own veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic.
Frequently asked questions
- Are poinsettias deadly to dogs?
- No. Despite a long-standing myth dating back to 1919, poinsettias are not lethal to dogs. Both the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline describe the toxicity as mild and greatly over-rated. The irritant sap typically causes only mild, self-limiting mouth and stomach irritation.
- What happens if my dog eats a poinsettia leaf?
- Chewing or swallowing poinsettia leaves can cause drooling, lip-licking, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea from the irritant sap. Signs are usually mild and resolve on their own. Skin or mouth contact with the milky sap can also cause localized redness, swelling, and itchiness. Watch your dog and contact your vet if vomiting or diarrhea is severe or persistent.
- Is the sap of a poinsettia the dangerous part?
- Yes. The toxic component is the milky white sap (latex) released when stems or leaves are broken, which contains diterpenoid euphorbol esters and saponin-like detergents. This sap is what irritates the mouth, stomach, and skin. Large ingestions are still unlikely to cause serious harm, but the sap is the source of the irritation.
Sources
Last updated 2026-06-25
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This page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Toxicity can vary with the amount eaten, your dog's size, and individual sensitivity. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian or poison-control hotline immediately.