PlantBetter

Plants dangerous to dogs

Dogs chew out of curiosity and boredom, so garden bulbs, fallen fruit pits and houseplants are common causes of poisoning.

Dogs

Warning signs: Vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, pawing at the mouth, lethargy, tremors or seizures.

If you suspect poisoning: remove any plant material, keep a sample, and call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

14 plants to keep away from dogs

  • Sago palm

    Severe

    Liver failure, bloody vomiting, seizures. All parts are toxic, seeds most of all.

  • Azalea & rhododendron

    Severe

    Grayanotoxins cause vomiting, weakness, abnormal heart rhythm.

  • Oleander

    Severe

    Cardiac glycosides disrupt heart rhythm; can be fatal in small amounts.

  • Yew

    Severe

    Taxine alkaloids cause sudden heart failure.

  • Onion, garlic & chives

    Severe

    Damage red blood cells, causing anemia.

  • Avocado (leaves, pit, skin)

    Severe

    Persin causes heart damage and respiratory distress.

  • Daffodil

    Moderate

    Bulbs cause vomiting, drooling and, in large amounts, heart problems.

  • Tulip

    Moderate

    Bulbs irritate the mouth and stomach, causing vomiting and drooling.

  • Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)

    Moderate

    Calcium oxalate crystals cause oral pain, swelling and drooling.

  • Pothos

    Moderate

    Calcium oxalate crystals irritate the mouth and throat.

  • Philodendron

    Moderate

    Oral irritation, drooling and difficulty swallowing.

  • Jade plant

    Moderate

    Vomiting, lethargy and a slow heart rate.

  • Aloe vera

    Mild

    Saponins cause vomiting and diarrhea.

  • Hydrangea

    Mild

    Cyanogenic glycosides cause vomiting and diarrhea.

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General information only, not veterinary advice. Toxicity varies with the amount eaten and the animal's size.