Chamomile — (c) Duarte Frade, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Duarte Frade
Photo by (c) Duarte Frade, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Duarte FradeiNaturalistCC BY
dog safety reference

Is Chamomile safe for dogs?

Anthemis nobilis

Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family often used in herbal teas and essential oils. While popular for human use, it contains compounds that can cause adverse reactions in pets if ingested.

Anthemis nobilisChamaemelum nobileGarden chamomileRoman chamomile
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Habit
Low-growing, spreading herb
Care
Low

Safety status

Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

What this means for your dog

Dogs usually tolerate a small accidental nibble of garden chamomile with only mild stomach upset, but ASPCA still lists Anthemis nobilis as toxic to dogs. The bigger risks are larger ingestions (a raided tea bag, a planter pulled apart in the yard) and ongoing supplementation, which the ASPCA links to bleeding tendencies.

What to watch for

Most common: vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. Watch also for excessive drooling, contact dermatitis or itchy red skin where the plant touched, and allergic reactions including facial swelling. With long-term exposure, ASPCA flags bleeding tendencies — bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or unexplained nosebleeds — as a more serious sign.

Time window

Mild GI signs usually appear within hours of ingestion and resolve within roughly 24 hours with supportive care. Skin reactions can be immediate or delayed. Bleeding-tendency effects are associated with chronic, repeated exposure rather than a one-time nibble.

When to call the vet

Call the vet if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent or contains blood, if your dog seems lethargic or off food for more than 12 hours, if there is facial swelling or trouble breathing (possible allergic reaction), or if you see any sign of abnormal bleeding or bruising. Call right away if a dog ate a chamomile-containing essential oil, tincture, or a flavored tea bag (which may also contain xylitol or caffeine).

Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).

If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential contact dermatitis.

Escalation note

Ingestion may cause digestive upset or allergic reactions. Always consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested any part of this plant.

Safer alternatives

No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.

Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Chamomile is listed as toxic to dogs and cats, potentially causing vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions.

Cats & dogs pagecats pageMy dog ate Chamomile

Same dog verdict

Related plants for dogs