household
Play-Doh
IMMEDIATE VET ATTENTION
Play-Doh and homemade salt dough are dangerous because of the very high salt content.
If your dog has eaten this item, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service now.
If your dog is showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, severe vomiting, unconsciousness or other serious symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What to do
Contact your vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention immediately.
Symptoms to look for
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- excessive thirst
- frequent urination
- tremors
- seizures
- weakness
- coma
Why
Play-Doh and salt dough contain large amounts of salt. If a dog eats a significant amount, it can cause dangerous sodium poisoning, leading to vomiting, tremors, seizures and brain swelling. Homemade salt dough is often even saltier than commercial Play-Doh.
- Substances of concern
- salt, sodium
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"commercial play doh","homemade salt dough","modelling clay"}
- Preparation
- Keep all modelling dough away from dogs.
- How much matters
- A large amount can be life-threatening, especially for small dogs.
- Severity
- Severe
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Chemical exposure
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Chemical exposure
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.