Yes, jalapeño plants are toxic to dogs.
A pod type of Capsicum annuum, jalapeño is a medium-sized chili pepper plant enjoyed by humans around the world. The plant bears green-coloured fruits that can turn to yellow, orange, or red when they ripen. Depending on its capsaicin content, the jalapeño’s spice level ranges from pleasantly mild to burning hot.
Dogs as well as cats should not eat any part of the jalapeño fruit, nor should they be exposed to the plant. Aside from the fruit, its leaves, branches, and stems contain capsaicin that may irritate your dog’s various organs. Thankfully, SFGate reports that the poisoning is unlikely to be lethal.
What to do if your dog accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats jalapeño plants: If you suspect that your dog accidentally ate jalapeño fruits, observe him for bloating, gas, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, nausea, and/or dehydration. Gastrointestinal irritation may also occur because of the burning sensation from the capsaicin. Depending on how much jalapeño he came across, he may also experience shock, seizures, and difficulty in breathing.
Take away the plant from your dog. Remove remnants from his mouth, fur, and skin if possible. Report all your findings to the veterinarian. If his condition worsens, take him to the emergency animal clinic.
In summary: It is not advisable to grow jalapeño plants if you own or care for canine pets. Its active components may harm curious dogs that enjoy playing with or munching on plants. Before you consider receiving a bouquet of flowers or buying a new houseplant, always check out these lists by ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline. They’ll help you determine which ones are toxic and safe for dogs.
References:
Are Jalapeno Leaves Poisonous to Dogs?
Can Dogs Eat Jalapeños? Are Jalapeños Toxic or Harmful to Dogs?
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