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Can Dogs Get Poison Ivy?

Can Dogs Get Poison Ivy?

Updated on February 03, 2023
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team
Dog & Owner Hiking

Yes, dogs are less likely than humans to be affected by poison ivy, but it can still cause itchiness and discomfort for your pet. For many pet parents, walking, hiking and exploring the outdoors are among the most treasured experiences they share with their dogs. Outdoor recreation can be good for your dog’s health and a wonderful opportunity for bonding. Unfortunately, it can also increase your pup’s risk of exposure to hazards like poison ivy. Find out how to identify signs of poison ivy on dogs and learn the best ways to treat it so you can continue to enjoy time outside with your best friend.

For more tips on heading outside with your pet, browse our guide, Support Your Dog Outdoors & Indoors with Healthy Activity.

Identifying poison ivy

Learning how to identify this plant is the first step in reducing the chance of poison ivy on dogs in your care and determining the cause of any rash they may experience. The scientific name of the poison ivy plant is Toxicodendron radicans. One look at that name, and you’ll notice the word “toxic”—a hint that this plant is decidedly unfriendly. Urushiol oil found in poison ivy can cause blistering and itching for both humans and dogs.

Poison ivy can grow as a plant, vine, shrub or small tree. It can be identified by its clusters of three leaflets, lack of thorns and alternate leaf arrangement. Each individual group of leaflets has its own stem, and this distinctive appearance has given rise to the helpful warning, “leaves of three, let them be.” If you spend a lot of time outside with your pup, take a good look at images of poison ivy so you can avoid it if you come across it in nature.

poison ivy plant

Is it common for dogs to get poison ivy?

A poison ivy rash on dogs is far less common than it is for humans. You can thank their fur, which helps prevent urushiol oil from reaching their skin. Additionally, poison ivy is considered only mildly toxic to pets. With that said, keep in mind that if your dog is in contact with poison ivy, they can carry urushiol in their coat and transfer it to human skin even if they never develop symptoms.

A poison ivy rash on dogs is more likely for those who frequent areas where it is known to grow, have shorter fur, are shorter in stature or have exposed skin. It’s especially important to be careful in areas where poison ivy may be present if your pup has sensitive skin. Dogs can also be exposed to poison ivy orally if they bite, chew or lick a poison ivy plant, after which they may develop contact dermatitis or gastrointestinal irritation.

Are dogs allergic to poison ivy?

Although many dogs have fur that can protect them from experiencing an allergic reaction to poison ivy, some dogs are more vulnerable to its effects. You’re more likely to see a poison ivy rash on dogs who are low to the ground or have sensitive skin or short fur. Hairless breeds and dogs with sparsely coated bellies are also more vulnerable. It’s especially important to keep these dogs out of areas where poison ivy is known to grow.

Poison ivy’s urushiol oil can lead to discomfort, but other substances are much more harmful to your dog. Learn some practical Tips for Preventing Dog Poisoning.

How to prevent poison ivy rashes

Some steps you can take to help prevent a poison ivy rash on dogs include the following:

  • Know how to identify poison ivy and stay clear of areas where it’s present
  • Consider using a pet T-shirt or protective outerwear during hikes if your dog has short fur, sensitive skin, is short stature, is a hairless breed or has a sparsely coated belly
  • If you’ve spent time in an area where poison ivy is suspected of growing, bathe your pet to remove poison ivy on dog fur

Signs of poison ivy on dogs

Look for the following signs to help you determine if your pup has encountered this plant:

  • Behavior changes
  • Restlessness
  • Reduced appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Red skin
  • Swollen skin
  • Itchiness
  • Visible skin blisters
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

How to wash poison ivy off your dog

After a romp in an area where poison ivy is known to grow, your dog may take away urushiol oil on their fur. Although they might not develop symptoms, the oil may eventually work its way down to their skin and cause irritation or spread to other people and pets in your home.

Before preparing a bath to remove any potential poison ivy on dog fur, put on protective gear such as rubber or latex gloves. Use an anti-seborrheic or keratolytic shampoo designed for pets or a mild dishwashing detergent known to be effective at breaking down oils. While washing, avoid rubbing your dog’s eyes—you don’t want to accidentally spread poison ivy oil to this sensitive part of their face.

How to treat poison ivy on dogs

The first and most important step if you suspect your dog has been exposed to poison ivy and is experiencing a reaction is to contact your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may recommend bathing your pup with a soothing colloidal oatmeal shampoo specially formulated for dogs. Although it’s often used to treat poison ivy on people, don’t use calamine lotion for a poison ivy rash on dogs. It contains zinc oxide, which is harmful to canines.

When does my dog need to see my veterinarian?

If your dog exhibits a change in behavior or any symptoms of poison ivy exposure, it’s time to see your veterinarian. If poison ivy is determined as the cause of your dog’s discomfort, your vet may prescribe topical, oral or injectable medications to help combat dermatitis. Antibiotics may also be recommended to treat potential secondary skin infections.

Can dogs get poison oak?

Poison oak is another type of plant that grows wild in natural areas and cause an itchy, uncomfortable rash. As with poison ivy on dogs, canines can experience painful reactions to poison oak, but you are at a greater risk of developing a rash than your dog.

Check out our guide, Pet-Friendly (and Not-So-Friendly) Plants—especially if you spend a lot of time outside with your pup.

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