Dogs
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
dog safety reference
Is Cinquefoil safe for dogs?
Potentilla spp.
Cinquefoil is a diverse genus of flowering plants in the rose family, commonly found in gardens and wild meadows. While generally considered safe for pets, it is not intended for consumption.
Five-fingerPotentillaPotentilla spp.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Clumping or spreading
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs are safe around cinquefoil — the ASPCA lists Potentilla spp. as non-toxic to dogs with no toxic principle on file. A dog that grazes on the foliage of a landscape cinquefoil isn't ingesting anything poisonous, though gulping a large mouthful of leaves and stems can cause short-lived stomach upset from the fiber load alone.
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
None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.
Bring it home
Cinquefoilis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Cinquefoil is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Potentilla
botanical · 94% reliability
A large genus of herbaceous plants and shrubs in the Rosaceae family.
Questions about Cinquefoil
Is cinquefoil toxic to dogs?
Cinquefoil (Potentilla spp.) is non-toxic to dogs. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it does not contain compounds known to poison dogs.
What happens if a dog eats cinquefoil?
No toxic effects are expected. However, ingesting large amounts of fibrous plant material can cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea — a mechanical irritation rather than a poisoning.
My dog ate a bunch of cinquefoil from the garden — should I be worried?
A small nibble is not a concern. If your dog ate a significant quantity and is showing vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.
Is cinquefoil in the same family as any toxic plants?
Cinquefoil belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae), which includes some plants that can be harmful to dogs, but cinquefoil itself is considered non-toxic. Non-toxic does not mean it is beneficial for dogs to eat — keep consumption to a minimum to avoid GI upset from the fibrous plant material.
Same dog verdict
Related plants for dogs
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Dwarf Date Palm
Phoenix acaulis
The Dwarf Date Palm is a slow-growing, stemless palm species native to the grasslands of India. It is widely appreciated for its compact, architectural foliage that mimics the appearance of larger date palms in a miniature form.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
African Violet
Saintpaulia spp.
African Violets are popular, low-growing flowering houseplants known for their fuzzy leaves and vibrant blooms. They are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Basil is a popular culinary herb known for its aromatic leaves and ease of growth in sunny indoor or outdoor environments. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.