Lemongrass is mildly toxic to dogs and causes gastrointestinal upset and irritation. Small amounts cause vomiting and diarrhoea, whilst larger amounts or essential oils can cause more serious symptoms. Prevent your dog from chewing lemongrass plants and never use lemongrass essential oils or products on your dog.
Why Lemongrass Needs Caution
Lemongrass presents toxicity risks for dogs:
Citral and other volatile oils: Lemongrass contains volatile oil compounds that irritate the digestive system and can affect the nervous system at high doses.
Essential oil concentration: Lemongrass essential oil is 40-50 times more concentrated than the fresh plant. Even small amounts can cause significant toxicity.
Gastrointestinal irritation: Lemongrass irritates the digestive tract lining, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
Individual sensitivity: Smaller dogs and those with sensitive digestive systems are more susceptible to effects.
Often combined with other toxins: Lemongrass products often contain alcohol, additional oils, or pesticides that increase toxicity.
Never use lemongrass essential oil, sprays, diffusers, or topical products on your dog. Never use lemongrass-based flea or tick repellents without explicit veterinary approval for your specific dog.
How Much Can Dogs Eat?
Lemongrass ingestion should be prevented. Even small amounts can cause digestive upset.
Fresh lemongrass plant material:
- Small dogs: 1-2 leaves may cause mild upset
- Medium/large dogs: Small amounts unlikely to cause serious illness
However, intentionally offering lemongrass is not advised. Any ingestion should be monitored.
Essential oil: Even 1-2 drops can cause toxicity. Never offer intentionally.
How to Serve Safely
Lemongrass should not be intentionally given to dogs. Prevention is the best approach:
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Keep lemongrass plants out of reach. If you grow lemongrass, position it away from areas your dog frequents.
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Prevent plant chewing. Teach your dog not to chew garden plants.
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Never use essential oils. Never diffuse, spray, apply to skin, or otherwise use lemongrass essential oil around your dog.
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Avoid lemongrass products. Don't use lemongrass-based shampoos, sprays, or flea treatments unless explicitly vet-approved.
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Check ingredients on toys and bedding. Avoid toys or bedding scented with lemongrass.
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Clean up plant debris. If you grow lemongrass, regularly remove fallen leaves and stems.
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Choose safe alternatives. For insect repelling or flavour, use only vet-approved products.
When to Avoid
Do not give lemongrass to your dog in any form:
- Fresh plant material (leaves, stems)
- Dried lemongrass
- Lemongrass essential oil
- Lemongrass-based products (sprays, diffusers, topical treatments)
- Lemongrass-scented toys or bedding
- Lemongrass extracts
If your dog has a sensitive stomach or history of gastrointestinal issues, even accidental small exposure should be monitored.
Symptoms to Watch For
After your dog eats or is exposed to lemongrass, monitor for these signs:
Gastrointestinal irritation (most common):
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Excessive drooling
From essential oil or larger plant amounts:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhoea
- Lethargy or depression
- Loss of appetite
- Tremors or muscle weakness
- Loss of coordination
- Skin irritation or dermatitis (if oil contacted skin)
Skin effects (from essential oil contact):
- Redness or irritation
- Itching or excessive licking
- Blistering (in severe cases)
If your dog ate a small amount of fresh lemongrass, mild gastrointestinal upset is most likely, usually resolving within 12-24 hours with supportive care. Monitor closely and contact your vet if symptoms are severe or persist beyond 24 hours.
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