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Toxic

Fireworks (eaten or chewed) and dogs: what to do

Toxic. Eating fireworks can cause vomiting, burns, blood problems and weakness, depending on the chemicals inside.

If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now

Find an emergency vet

What to do now

  1. Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
  2. Tell the vet what kind of firework it was; signs depend on the chemicals inside.
  3. Pick up all firework debris before letting your dog outside.

Don't

  • Don't let your dog near lit fireworks or sparklers.

Signs to watch for

  • Vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes bloody
  • Burns on the lips, mouth, nose or paws
  • Lethargy with brown, gray or blue gums
  • Fast breathing or fast heartbeat
  • Extreme weakness or poor coordination
  • Seizures

When signs appear: Some signs can take up to 10 hours

Why

Fireworks contain chemicals such as chlorate salts and barium, which can damage red blood cells, muscles and nerves.

Sources

Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.

General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.