Is it toxic to dogs?
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemum spp. · Asteraceae
Also called Mums, Daisies, Florist's chrysanthemum
Toxic to dogs
Severity: Mild
Yes. The ASPCA lists chrysanthemums as toxic to dogs. Vomiting, diarrhea and drooling are the usual signs, and some dogs also get skin irritation.
- Toxic parts
- Leaves, stems and flowers (the sources do not single out one part)
- Toxic compounds
- Sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins and other potential irritants
- Where you’ll find it
- House and garden
Signs of poisoning
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling (hypersalivation)
- Incoordination
- Skin irritation (dermatitis)
Why it’s harmful to dogs
Chrysanthemums, or mums, are the cheerful potted plants that line porches every fall and fill supermarket flower aisles. They are also garden perennials, available in a wide range of daisy-like shapes and colors.
The ASPCA lists them as toxic to dogs because of sesquiterpene lactones and pyrethrins, plus other plant irritants. Pet Poison Helpline points out that pyrethrins, the same family of compounds used in some insecticides and flea and tick products, can be extracted from chrysanthemums. It says eating the plant usually leads to stomach upset and does not describe anything more severe.
The ASPCA's sign list also includes drooling, incoordination and dermatitis, so a dog that chews a lot can look sorry for itself. Exposure typically happens at the front step or in a flower bed, where a pot or a bunch of fresh stems is wonderfully chewable to a bored dog.
If your dog ate chrysanthemums
Take any petals or leaves out of your dog's mouth and move the pot or bouquet out of reach. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea and drooling afterward.
Call your vet, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply), if your dog ate a good amount, keeps vomiting, seems wobbly, or develops a rash. Outside the US, call your local emergency vet. Don't try to make your dog vomit at home. Note the plant, the amount and the time for the call.
Keeping your dog safe
Keep potted mums on a high table or porch shelf, and place fall displays where your dog can't snatch a leaf. Cut flowers belong on counters rather than low coffee tables, and compost clippings in a bin your dog can't reach.
For color in the same season, try sunflowers or roses in borders. A steady "leave it" on porch visits teaches your dog to ignore decorations.
Dog-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Are chrysanthemums poisonous to dogs?
The ASPCA lists them as toxic to dogs, but Pet Poison Helpline says eating the plant usually causes only stomach upset.
What are pyrethrins?
Natural insect-killing compounds, the same kind used in some flea and tick products. Pet Poison Helpline notes they can be extracted from chrysanthemums, but eating the plant itself usually just upsets the stomach.
Can touching mums irritate a dog's skin?
The ASPCA lists dermatitis among the signs, so skin irritation is possible. Call your vet if a rash develops.
Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy