Guide to Household Products That Are Toxic to Dogs & When to Seek Emergency Vet Care
Many everyday household products can be harmful to dogs. While some cause mild stomach upset or skin irritation, others can result in serious illness, chemical burns or poisoning.
If you think your dog has been exposed to a toxic household product, contact your vet immediately. Early treatment can significantly improve the outcome.
Common Household Products That Are Toxic to Dogs
Common examples include:
Rodenticides (rat and mouse poisons)
Slug and snail bait
Cleaning products (including bleach and disinfectants)
Household detergents (including laundry detergents, dishwasher detergents and fabric softeners)
Topical creams and ointments
Nicotine products (including cigarettes, tobacco, nicotine pouches, nicotine gum, patches and vaping products)
Essential oils and reed diffusers
Fertilisers and weed killers
Batteries
Signs of Poisoning in Your Dog and What to Do
The signs of household product poisoning vary depending on the product and the extent of exposure. Some dogs develop signs within minutes, while others may not become unwell for several hours.
Common signs include:
Excessive drooling
Lethargy or weakness
Tremors or seizures
If you know or suspect your dog has been exposed to a toxic household product, contact your vet immediately, even if they are not yet showing any signs of illness.
What to do if you suspect poisoning
If you think your dog has been exposed to a toxic household product:
Prevent your dog from further exposure.
If the product is on your dog's skin or coat, rinse it off with plenty of lukewarm water if it is safe to do so.
Keep the product packaging or container, if possible.
Contact your vet immediately for advice.
Follow your vet's advice.
Household Products – Poisoning Prevention Tips
You can reduce the risk of household product poisoning by:
Storing household products securely and out of your dog's reach.
Keeping dogs away from areas while cleaning products or chemicals are being used.
Storing chemicals in their original containers.
Cleaning up spills immediately.
Keeping bins and cupboards containing household products securely closed.