Garden plants toxic to dogs: What you need to know

At just 8-months-old, Cheddar the Corgi suffered poisoning from a Rhododendron, a common garden plant. Cheddar was happily playing in the garden while her owner Rosie was in the kitchen. Rosie had fenced off the Rhododendron, knowing it was toxic. However, Cheddar found her way through the fence and chewed on several branches before Rosie noticed. Soon after, Cheddar started vomiting.

Rosie immediately called the vet, who recommended taking Cheddar in for tests and monitoring. Symptoms of poisoning from Rhododendron can take 12-24 hours to fully develop. Eating the leaves or flowers can cause nausea, vomiting, depression, and difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, it can lead to coma or death.

Cheddar stayed overnight at the vet on a drip and fortunately made a full recovery. Rosie’s advice to dog owners: "Check your garden for toxic plants. It could save your dog and a hefty vet bill. Use a plant identification app if you’re unsure of the plants you have."

What plants are toxic to dogs?

Many plants can harm dogs, causing mild to severe symptoms. Toxic plants can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and even more serious issues such as liver damage or heart problems. Some dogs may be more susceptible than others based on size, age, or breed. Puppies and smaller dogs are generally at higher risk because they can be more curious and eat larger amounts relative to their body size. Dogs with pre-existing health conditions may also be more vulnerable.

Here’s a list of plants toxic to dogs that you might find in your garden. It’s not just unusual varieties—many common plants can cause harm too.

Common plants toxic to dogs

• Buttercups. Toxicity: Moderate. Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The sap in buttercups can also cause skin irritation.
• Clematis. Toxicity: mild to moderate. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, and drooling. Consuming large quantities can lead to more serious symptoms.
• Cyclamen. Toxicity: severe. Symptoms: salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, seizures, heart problems, and even death.
• Daffodils. Toxicity: moderate to severe. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Ingesting large quantities can cause more serious effects like tremors and heart issues.
• Elderberry. Toxicity: moderate. Symptoms: gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Unripe berries and stems are the most dangerous.
• Foxglove. Toxicity: severe. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, abnormal heart rhythms, and in extreme cases, death.
• Hemlock. Toxicity: very severe. Symptoms: tremors, difficulty breathing, paralysis, and death. All parts of the plant are extremely toxic.
• Holly berries. Toxicity: mild. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, and drooling. Consuming large quantities can worsen symptoms.
• Oak tree foliage and acorns. Toxicity: moderate to severe. Symptoms: gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and kidney damage. Acorns are particularly dangerous if consumed in large quantities.
• Yew berries and foliage. Toxicity: severe. Symptoms: vomiting, drooling, difficulty breathing, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, and death. All parts of the plant are highly toxic.

If you’re unsure about the plants in your garden, use a plant identification app such as PictureThis. You can find these for both Android and iPhone devices. Apps like these will help you identify any harmful plants and decide what needs to be removed for your dog’s safety.

Outdoor plants safe for dogs

Not all plants in your garden are dangerous to your dog. There are plenty of non-toxic plants that you can grow safely. For example, marigolds, snapdragons, sunflowers, camellias, and lavender are all pet-friendly. These plants not only brighten up your outdoor space with vibrant colours but also provide peace of mind, knowing your dog is safe around them.

House plants toxic to dogs

Your home could also have dangerous plants. Many common houseplants are toxic to dogs, and it’s worth double-checking your indoor plants too. Toxic houseplants include:

• Aloe Vera. Toxicity: mild. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy if ingested.
• Snake Plant. Toxicity: mild. Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Peace Lily. Toxicity: moderate. Symptoms: drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress.
• ZZ Plant. Toxicity: moderate. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, and drooling.

House plants safe for dogs

There are plenty of indoor plants that are safe for your dog, so you don’t have to miss out on having a green home. Pet-friendly options include the spider plant, bamboo palm, areca palm, Boston fern, and calathea. These houseplants not only keep your dog safe but also help purify the air, making your home healthier and more vibrant.

What to do if your dog eats a toxic plant

If you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, act quickly:

1. Identify the plant and call your vet immediately.
2. Monitor your dog for symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or lethargy.
3. Follow the vet’s advice - this might include bringing your dog in for observation or treatment.
4. Avoid inducing vomiting unless your vet recommends it, as some toxins can cause more harm coming back up.

Prevention is always better than cure, so take the time to inspect your garden and home for dangerous plants. Consider removing toxic plants or placing them in areas your dog can’t access. Using plant identification apps can be a lifesaver.

FAQ: Are these common plants toxic to dogs?

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about common plants: