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 Peony safe for dogs?
Paeonia officinalis
The peony is a popular garden perennial known for its large, showy blooms. While prized for its beauty, all parts of the plant contain paeonol, which can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Garden PeonyPaeonia officinalisPeony
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs that munch peony leaves, flowers, or bark are most likely to end up with a stomachache rather than a poisoning crisis. ASPCA lists the toxic principle as paeonol and the clinical signs as vomiting, diarrhea, and depression — severity is typically mild to moderate.
What to watch for
Vomiting and diarrhea come first, often with lethargy or a 'depressed' demeanor. Bigger ingestions, especially of bark or roots where paeonol concentrates, can produce more substantial GI upset.
Time window
Signs typically begin within hours of ingestion and resolve in 24-48 hours with supportive care; ASPCA does not document precise timing.
When to call the vet
Call your vet if symptoms last more than a few hours, your dog can't keep water down, or seems weak, painful, or unusually flat. A same-day appointment is normally appropriate; ER care is rarely necessary.
First aid at home
Per Pet Poison Helpline, get the dog away from the plant and gently wipe plant material from in and around the mouth with a damp cloth. Do not induce vomiting unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, Kew Plants of the World Online.
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 depression.
Escalation note
Symptoms are generally limited to the digestive tract. Consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested the plant to ensure proper monitoring.
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
Peony is listed as toxic to dogs and cats, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted scientific name and botanical classification for Paeonia officinalis.
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