My dog ate a stink bug — is it poisonous?

No. Stink bugs are not poisonous or toxic to dogs. The worst that usually happens is temporary mouth irritation and mild stomach upset (drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea) from the bug's foul defensive secretion, which typically clears up within about a day.

What symptoms should I watch for after my dog eats a stink bug?

Look for hypersalivation/drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or diarrhea. These are caused by the irritating secretion and are usually self-limiting. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts beyond 24-48 hours, or seek emergency care if you see facial swelling, hives, or labored breathing.

Are stink bugs more dangerous to cats than to dogs?

No. The consulted sources indicate stink bugs are not poisonous to either dogs or cats; both can get the same mild oral and gastrointestinal irritation from the secretion, with no serious lasting health effects reported.

Are Stink Bugs Poisonous to Dogs?

Pentatomidae (family); the common invasive brown marmorated stink bug is Halyomorpha halys · Pentatomidae

Generally SafeNot toxic to cats

Stink Bugs are generally safe for dogs.

What to keep in mind

Stink bugs are NOT considered toxic or poisonous to dogs by the consulted sources. They are a mild irritant: the pungent defensive secretion the bug releases when threatened or crushed can irritate the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, causing drooling, oral discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea. These signs are usually self-limiting and resolve within roughly 24 hours without treatment. Caveats: (1) A single bug rarely causes more than transient upset, but eating several can worsen GI irritation. (2) The hard exoskeleton can occasionally cause a choking hazard or mild GI obstruction/irritation in very small dogs. (3) Watch for persistent vomiting or diarrhea beyond 24-48 hours, lethargy, or refusal to eat, and contact a veterinarian if these occur. (4) Seek immediate veterinary care for any signs of an allergic reaction (facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing). (5) This entry covers true stink bugs (family Pentatomidae); it does not cover other insects a dog might confuse them with. Discourage your dog from hunting and eating stink bugs to avoid the unpleasant irritation.

Frequently asked questions

My dog ate a stink bug — is it poisonous?: No. Stink bugs are not poisonous or toxic to dogs. The worst that usually happens is temporary mouth irritation and mild stomach upset (drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea) from the bug's foul defensive secretion, which typically clears up within about a day.
What symptoms should I watch for after my dog eats a stink bug?: Look for hypersalivation/drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or diarrhea. These are caused by the irritating secretion and are usually self-limiting. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts beyond 24-48 hours, or seek emergency care if you see facial swelling, hives, or labored breathing.
Are stink bugs more dangerous to cats than to dogs?: No. The consulted sources indicate stink bugs are not poisonous to either dogs or cats; both can get the same mild oral and gastrointestinal irritation from the secretion, with no serious lasting health effects reported.

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.