Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
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
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.
Dogs — concern 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
Chamomile is listed as toxic to dogs and cats, potentially causing vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions.
Questions about Chamomile
Is chamomile toxic to dogs?
Yes, chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is considered potentially toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and contact dermatitis. While a one-time small nibble is unlikely to be serious, repeated or large ingestions carry more risk, and chamomile-containing essential oils or concentrated tinctures are more dangerous than the plain plant.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating chamomile?
The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and excessive drooling. If the plant touched your dog's skin, watch for itchy, red, or irritated patches (contact dermatitis). Allergic reactions — including facial swelling or trouble breathing — are possible but less common. With chronic repeated exposure, ASPCA data flags bleeding tendencies such as bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or unexplained nosebleeds as a more serious concern.
What should I do if my dog ate chamomile?
Monitor your dog closely for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, which typically appear within a few hours and resolve within about 24 hours with supportive care. If your dog ate a chamomile essential oil, tincture, or a flavored tea bag (which may also contain xylitol or caffeine), treat it as urgent and call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear in those cases.
When do chamomile's effects on dogs become serious enough to call a vet?
Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent or contains blood, if your dog seems lethargic or off food for more than 12 hours, or if you notice facial swelling or trouble breathing. Signs of an allergic reaction or any indication of abnormal bleeding or bruising also warrant prompt veterinary attention. Concentrated forms like essential oils or tinctures require a call right away regardless of symptoms.
Same dog verdict
Related plants for dogs
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Cuban Oregano
Coleus amboinicus
The Bread and Butter plant is a succulent herb known for its aromatic, fleshy leaves often used in culinary applications. While popular as a kitchen herb, it contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.