Is Lemongrass Toxic to Dogs?
Also known as: Coconut Grass, Citronella Grass, Cymbopogon citratus · Cymbopogon citratus
What makes it toxic
Citral and related essential oils in the stalks and leaves, plus coarse fibrous material that is hard to digest. The oils irritate the gut and the fiber can mechanically upset the stomach.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, mild stomach discomfort and lethargy within hours. The tough fibers can also cause gagging or, rarely, an obstruction if large chunks are swallowed.
What to do if your dog eats it
Remove access, offer water and monitor. Call your vet if vomiting continues, the dog seems bloated or painful, or if no stool passes — that combination suggests a possible blockage.
Common questions
Can dogs eat food cooked with lemongrass?
A small amount of lemongrass in a soup or curry is unlikely to hurt, but remove the tough stalk before sharing and skip dishes with onion, garlic or heavy spice.
Is citronella the same plant as lemongrass?
Citronella grass is a close relative with much higher citronellal content. Citronella oil products should not be ingested by dogs and are best used only as directed.
Why does lemongrass upset stomachs if it is a tea herb for people?
Human servings are steeped and diluted, while a chewing dog eats raw concentrated oils and coarse fiber. The same dose scaled to a dog’s body size is much bigger.
More plants checked for dogs
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.