PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate liquid potpourri? What to do
Liquid potpourri can cause chemical burns to a dog's lips, tongue, gums and throat, and breathing trouble that may start hours later.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Wash any potpourri off the skin or fur with liquid dish soap.
- Seal the bottle in a bag and bring it to the vet.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit or give activated charcoal unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Red or burned lips, gums or tongue
- Swollen tongue
- Vomiting
- Low energy
- Fever
- Noisy or hard breathing
When signs appear: Mouth signs soon after; breathing noises can start 6 to 12 hours later
Why
Many liquid potpourris contain cationic detergents, which burn the mouth, skin and eyes much like strong alkalis. Only a few licks can be harmful.
Sources
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Essential Oil and Liquid Potpourri Poisoning in Dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Household Hazards
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.