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 Lemon Grass safe for dogs?
Cymbopogon citratus
Lemon grass is a tropical perennial grass widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes, known for its distinct citrus scent. It contains essential oils that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Citronella GrassCymbopogon citratusLemon Grass
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Clumping grass
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs: ASPCA lists lemon grass as toxic to dogs, with essential oils and cyanogenic glycosides as the toxic principles. A few nibbles of an outdoor blade are usually only mildly irritating; the larger concerns are concentrated lemongrass essential oil and large quantities of tough fibrous leaves.
What to watch for
Most common after chewing the plant is stomach upset: vomiting and occasional diarrhea. Concentrated essential-oil exposure can additionally cause drooling, lethargy, anorexia, and respiratory or dermal irritation.
Time window
GI signs from chewing the plant typically appear within a few hours and resolve within 24 hours with supportive care. Essential-oil exposures can take 3–7 days to fully resolve.
When to call the vet
Call a vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if your dog ingested lemongrass essential oil, ate a large quantity of leaves, or shows ongoing vomiting, lethargy, or signs of an intestinal obstruction (straining, abdominal pain, repeated unproductive vomiting).
First aid at home
Take the plant away and rinse the mouth with water to remove residue. If essential oil got on the coat, bathe with a mild dish soap to limit absorption. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian or poison control.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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, and signs of gastrointestinal distress.
Escalation note
The fibrous leaves can be difficult to digest and may cause mechanical irritation, while the oils may cause stomach upset. Always consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed a significant amount.
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
Lemon grass contains essential oils and chemical components that can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Cymbopogon citratus is a tender perennial grass often grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Questions about Lemon Grass
Is lemon grass toxic to dogs?
Yes, lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is considered potentially toxic to dogs. The fibrous leaves can cause mechanical irritation in the digestive tract, and the essential oils can cause stomach upset, making it a plant to keep away from dogs.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating lemon grass?
The most common signs are vomiting and diarrhea, typically appearing within a few hours of ingestion and usually resolving within 24 hours with supportive care. Exposure to concentrated essential oils can additionally cause drooling, lethargy, loss of appetite, and respiratory or skin irritation, which may take 3–7 days to fully resolve.
What should I do if my dog ate lemon grass?
Remove the plant and rinse your dog's mouth with water to clear any residue. If essential oil got on the coat, wash it off with a mild dish soap to limit absorption. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian or poison control — call ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if your dog ingested lemongrass essential oil or ate a large quantity of leaves.
Can lemon grass cause a blockage in dogs?
Yes, the tough fibrous leaves are difficult to digest and can potentially cause a mechanical obstruction. Watch for signs of an intestinal blockage — straining to defecate, abdominal pain, or repeated unproductive vomiting — and call your vet immediately if any of these appear.
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