Can Dogs Eat Dandelions?

Yes, dogs can eat dandelions—as long as they’re clean, unsprayed, and pesticide-free. That means no herbicides, lawn chemicals, or mystery mulch.  

But are dandelions safe for dogs in all forms? Unlike some plants that are only partially safe, dogs can eat all parts of the dandelion: the flowers, leaves, and roots, according to Samuel Varon, DVM, owner of Broadway Veterinary Hospital, in Sacramento, California. 

That said, your dog doesn’t need dandelions in their diet. A complete and balanced dog food provides all the essential nutrients your pup needs. But small amounts of dandelion can be a fun, enriching treat, as long as you don’t overdo it. 

If you want an easy way to add dandelion to your dog’s diet, you can try one of these pet parent–approved treats: 

Dandelions come with several potential health benefits when prepared properly and fed in safe amounts. In fact, Dr. Varon says that dandelions are often used in holistic veterinary medicine as a natural supplement. 

Dandelions can: 

• Support digestion: Dandelion leaves are a natural source of fiber, which helps food move more smoothly through your dog’s system and promotes regular poops. 
• Promote liver health: Dandelion root is sometimes used to support liver detoxification and function. 
• Provide essential nutrients: Dandelions contain vitamins A, C, and K; and minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium, which can support overall health, according to Bethany Hsia, DVM, co-founder of CodaPet, in Clovis, California. 
• Offer antioxidants: Dandelions contain natural compounds such as flavonoids, which help fight off free radicals (unstable molecules that can build up and damage other molecules in your pup’s cells) and chronic diseases. 
• Alleviate skin issues: The nutrients in dandelions may help with dog eczema or acne, says Dr. Hsia. 

So, are dandelions bad for dogs in any way? No, not inherently—dandelions themselves aren’t considered poisonous or toxic to dogs. The risk comes from what’s on dandelions, like pesticides, herbicides, and/or weed killers.  

Plus, too much dandelion, especially the leaves and root, can lead to digestive upset, according to Dr. Hsia. Some signs of overdoing it include: 

• Diarrhea 
• Gas 
• Upset stomach 

Like any treat, dandelions should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake. The rest should come from a complete and balanced diet formulated for their size, age, and breed. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out how much dandelion is safe, based on your dog’s size. 

Always start with a little at a time to see how your dog reacts. If they show any signs of discomfort, stop giving them dandelion and call your vet.  

While dandelions are safe, proper preparation is important. Here’s what you should do before giving your dog dandelion: 

• Only pick fresh dandelions. Make sure you get dandelions from pesticide-free areas. Dr. Varon says to avoid wild dandelions from unknown areas and treated lawns. 
• Rinse thoroughly. Give the dandelions a good wash to remove dirt and bugs. 
• Chop finely. This makes it easier for your dog to eat and reduces the risk of choking. 

Once the dandelions are safely prepped, you can feed them to your dog a few ways: 

• Mix chopped dandelion into your dog’s food. 
• Blend with goat’s milk or bone broth, like Brutus Bone Broth, and freeze in KONG Classic toys. 
• Mix with a small amount of plain Greek yogurt and spread onto a lick mat, like this one from Frisco. 
• Brew a mild dandelion tea (cooled completely) and drizzle a small amount over your dog’s regular food. However, always ask your vet before offering tea, because it’s more concentrated. 

If your dog eats too many dandelions, Dr. Varon recommends: 

• Monitoring for gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea 
• Ensuring they have access to water, especially if diarrhea occurs 
• Calling your veterinarian if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or are severe 

If you’re not sure how many dandelions your dog has eaten or where they got them, it’s always safest to contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661, a fee applies). 

Q: Can puppies eat dandelions? 

A: Puppies can eat dandelions. But because their digestive systems are more sensitive, it’s best to limit exposure and avoid letting them graze freely, especially in areas where pesticides or herbicides may have been used, according to Dr. Varon. 

Q: Can dogs eat dandelion greens? 

A: Yes! Dandelion greens (which are the leaves of the plant) are rich in fiber and safe for dogs in small amounts. 

Q: Can dogs have dandelion root or dandelion root extract? 

A: Yes, dogs can have dandelion root, but in moderation. The root is stronger than the leaves and flowers and may cause tummy troubles if overused. Look for supplements made specifically for dogs. 

Q: Can dogs have dandelion tea? 

A: Yes, Dr. Hsia says dogs can have unsweetened—and cooled—dandelion tea in small amounts, as long as your vet approves. Avoid teas that are mixed with other herbs, flavorings, or sweeteners, like xylitol. 

Q: Are dandelions used in dog treats or supplements? 

A: Yes, dandelions are often used in dog treats or supplements that are aimed at digestive, urinary, and detoxification support. 

Q: What weeds are toxic to dogs? 

A: Sago palm, milkweed, nightshade, ragwort, horse nettle, and jimsonweed are all common backyard weeds that can be toxic to dogs. Dr. Varon says to also watch out for foxtails, which aren’t toxic but can be physically dangerous when ingested.