Most of us don’t think twice when bringing a new plant into our garden or home. However, many houseplants and common yard plants are poisonous to our pups, so it’s wise to double-check if a plant is poisonous before you’ve planted it or brought it into your home. Today, we’re going over some of the most common poisonous plants to dogs in our A to Z Guide.
While we’re at it, let’s take a moment to clarify what the difference is between toxic and poisonous plants. These words are typically used interchangeably because they are similar but not quite the same.
Toxic refers to the degree of harmful components. In contrast, poisonous describes plants that will likely cause harm to an animal if they are consumed or come into contact with the animal. Often, a poisonous plant has a high level of toxicity because poison heavily implies that a substance contains a high level of toxicity. However, please keep in mind that any substance can be poisonous if consumed in high quantities.
House Plants Poisonous to Dogs: An A-Z Guide
Wondering if your houseplants or yard plants are poisonous to dogs?
In this guide, we’ve endeavored to identify the most common toxic house and yard plants. Remember that many plants can cause digestive upset if consumed in large amounts, even if they are not poisonous, so it’s always important to watch your dogs around all plants.
- Azaleas
- Begonias
- Bamboo
- Daffodils
- Dandelions
- Ferns
- Fiddle Leaf Figs
- Gardenias
- Geraniums
- Hibiscus
- Honeysuckle
- Hostas
- Hydrangeas
- Impatiens
- Lantana
- Lavender
- Lilacs
- Lilies
- Marigolds
- Milkweed
- Monsteras
- Mums
- Orchids
- Peonies
- Poinsettias
- Pothos
- Roses
- Sago Palm
- Snake Plants
- Succulents
- Tulips
- Wisteria
Azaleas
Are Azaleas Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, azaleas are poisonous to dogs. Azaleas, also known as rhododendrons, are found throughout the United States and contain the toxin grayanotoxin, which can cause problems in humans and animals. Many gardeners use these stunning flowers to create beautiful arrangements in their yards due to their vivid blooms. However, consumptions can cause adverse side effects, such as drooling, loss of appetite, weakness, leg paralysis, and digestive upset. In severe cases, azalea consumption can lead to comas or death, even with the consumption of only a few leaves.
Begonias
Are Begonias Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, begonias are poisonous to dogs. Begonias come in over 1,000 species and 10,000 hybrids. They make for beautiful summer houseplants and yard plants due to their tropical heritage. However, they are unfortunately toxic to dogs, cats, and horses because they contain toxic soluble calcium oxalates. If consumed, a dog may vomit, experience intense burning and irritation in their mouth, and drool excessively. The most poisonous part of the plant is underground, so it’s harder to get to, but dogs that dig up the bulb can suffer from kidney failure if they eat it.
Bamboo
Is Bamboo Toxic to Dogs?
No, bamboo is not toxic to dogs. No, bamboo is not toxic to dogs. It is considered a relatively safe plant to have around the home. Keep in mind that a dog can choke on bamboo or experience digestive upset if they consume too much, so it is not recommended for chewing.
Daffodils
Are Daffodils Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, daffodils are poisonous to dogs, especially if the bulb is consumed. Daffodils are among the most popular and common yard plants in America. However, they are dangerous for our pets to consume. Daffodils contain toxic alkaloids, so we should keep these flowers away from dogs. When ingested, a dog may experience severe vomiting, respiratory distress, drooling, tremors, convulsions, and heart problems, especially if any part of the bulb is eaten.
Dandelions
Are Dandelions Poisonous to Dogs?
No, dandelions are not poisonous to dogs. Dandelions are bright, cheerful plants with some touted health benefits for humans and dogs. Some even say that dogs with sensitive stomachs can benefit from chewing dandelion leaves, although we always recommend consulting with your veterinarian before feeding your dog anything new. Dandelions are considered non-toxic, but they can have pesticides and herbicides on them, which can upset a dog’s gastrointestinal system.
Ferns
Are Ferns Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, ferns are toxic to dogs. Yes, some ferns are very toxic to dogs. While some species of ferns are harmless, others like the Emerald Fern (aka Emerald Feather or Asparagus Fern) and Poison Hemlock, Winter Fern, Nebraska Fern, or California Fern are toxic for dogs to consume. Toxic ferns often have poisonous leaves and berries, which can cause diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting in dogs. Some dogs can also experience skin inflammation upon contact with these toxic varieties.
We recommend that pet parents assume their ferns are poisonous if they are unsure. Non-toxic fern varieties include Button fern, Staghorn fern, Carrot fern, Mother fern, and Sword ferns.
Fiddle Leaf Figs
Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, Fiddle Leaf Figs are moderately toxic to dogs. However, it should be noted that Fiddle Leaf Figs are considered moderately toxic and are unlikely to cause severe health problems. Fiddle Leaf Figs contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can scratch the sensitive tissues of your dog’s mouth, throat, and stomach. Your dog may show discomfort by pawing at their mouth and may drink excessively or avoid water altogether due to the pain. Fiddle Leaf Figs also have a white sap, which can cause redness, irritation, rash, or blistering on your pet’s skin and eyes if they scratch them.
Gardenias
Are Gardenias Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, gardenias are poisonous to dogs. Gardenias, also known as Cape Jasmines, are beautiful plants that come in many shapes, colors, and sizes. Many people with a green thumb love growing these flowers in their homes and yards. Unfortunately, all known species of gardenias are poisonous to dogs. Gardenias contain many toxic properties, including saponins in the sap and berries, alkaloids in their berries, crocetin in the leaves and flowers, and glycosides, gardenoside, and geniposide, which are found throughout the whole plant.
While the severity varies from species to species, gardenias are known to cause gastrointestinal issues and irritation, vomiting, and cardiovascular problems. Gardenias may cause fatality, coma, partial loss of sight, and convulsions in severe cases.
Geraniums
Are Geraniums Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, geraniums are poisonous to dogs. Geraniums are common container plants that add a beautiful splash of color to any room. However, all varieties of this plant are poisonous to dogs because they contain geraniol, a primary ingredient in many essential oils like rose oil and citronella, and linalool, which can cause allergic reactions and eczema. In dogs, signs of geranium poisoning include reduced appetite, vomiting, depression, skin irritation, redness, and eye irritation.
Hibiscus
Are Hibiscus Poisonous to Dogs?
In most cases, hibiscus are not poisonous to dogs, but this can leave some room for confusion when considering different hibiscus species for your home.
Use caution with hibiscus plants. Most hibiscus varieties are considered non-toxic for pets. However, the Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) species can be poisonous to dogs, especially if they consume a large number of this plant’s flowers. When consumed, your dog may have diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Most species of hibiscus are non-toxic, but scientists have not figured out the difference between non-toxic and toxic varieties of hibiscus, so it’s best always to check if the specific species you are planting is poisonous to your dogs.
Honeysuckle
Is Honeysuckle Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, honeysuckle is poisonous to dogs. Yes, honeysuckle is highly poisonous to dogs. All honeysuckle, including popular varieties like trumpet, scarlet, and coral, should be considered poisonous to our furry friends. Honeysuckle plants contain cyanogenic glycosides and carotenoids, which can cause severe symptoms in dogs, including vomiting, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, and extreme thirst. In the worst cases, honeysuckle poisoning can lead to coma and death, so pet parents should exercise extreme caution if they plan on having honeysuckles in their yards.
Hostas
Are Hostas Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, hostas are poisonous to dogs. Hostas, also known as plantain lilies, are common throughout gardens and parks. Unfortunately, they are poisonous to our pups because they contain saponins. Saponins can cause skin and gastric irritation, weakness, vomiting, excessive drooling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Saponins are found throughout the entire hostas plant but are most concentrated within the bulb. Fortunately, while hostas are dangerous for our dogs to consume, the prognosis is typically good when following the guidance of your veterinarian.
Hydrangeas
Are Hydrangeas Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, hydrangeas are poisonous to dogs. Hydrangeas contain cyanogenic glycoside, which is in the plant’s buds, flowers, leaves, and bark. When consumed, a dog may become very sick and experience symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and other types of gastrointestinal upset. In short, if you’re wondering are hydrangea poisonous to dogs, they are, and it’s best to avoid planting these if possible or keep them behind fences or up high so that your dog cannot come into contact with them.
Impatiens
Are Impatiens Poisonous to Dogs?
No, impatiens are not poisonous to dogs. Impatiens are beautiful flowering plants that go by many names, including Buzzy Lizzies, Patient Lucies, Patient Plants, Tangerine Impatience, and Giant Touch-Me-Nots. These plants are part of the Balsaminaceae family and are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Lantana
Is Lantana Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, Lantana is poisonous to dogs. Also known as Red Sage, Yellow Sage, Wild Sage, and Shrub Verbena, Lantana are stunning pink, orange, yellow, and red flowers. Unfortunately, these flowers are poisonous to dogs because they contain pentacyclic triterpenoids. Symptoms of lantana poisoning in dogs include depression, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potential liver failure.
Lavender
Is Lavender Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, lavender is toxic to dogs. Many of us use lavender or lavender products to create a relaxing environment at home. However, lavender is toxic to dogs because it contains linlool and linalyl acetate, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and a decreased appetite in dogs. Lavender, also known as Common Lavender or English Lavender, is considered mildly toxic, but it can also relieve anxiety and stress for our furry friends. If you’re interested in using lavender products around your pet, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian to see if using lavender essential oil, pillow sprays, or other lavender products around your pup is appropriate.
Lilacs
Are Lilacs Poisonous to Dogs?
No, lilacs are not poisonous to dogs. Generally, lilacs are not known to be poisonous for dogs. Many varieties are even considered edible, however we recommend you discourage you dog from digging up the lilac garden to avoid gastrointestinal irritation. Note one important exception to this rule. The French lilac, can contain a neurotoxic and hypotensive which has been lethal to sheep, so it’s best to avoid that variety in places dogs are likely to dig.
Lilies
Are Lilies Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, lilies are poisonous to dogs. Lilies are one of the most well-known poisonous flowers to dogs. They come in many varieties, including lily of the valley, calla lily, peace lily, palm lily, and Dracaena lily, which are all known to be toxic to our furry friends. When consumed, lilies may cause depression, anorexia, tremors, burns to a dog’s mouth, and gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
Certain varieties of lilies are more dangerous than others, so we’ve rounded up the following information about the most popular lilies and are lilies toxic to dogs:
- Are calla lily poisonous to dogs? Yes, calla lilies are poisonous to dogs and can cause burns and irritation to a dog’s mouth and stomach. In short, are calla lilies poisonous to dogs? Yes, they are. Calla lilies can cause severe injury and discomfort to a dog’s mouth and stomach and should be kept away from dogs.
- Are daylilies poisonous to dogs? Daylilies are highly toxic to cats but usually only cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs. So, to answer the question, are daylilies toxic to dogs? They are considered mild to moderately toxic and may irritate a dog but are unlikely to cause severe symptoms in dogs.
- Are peace lily toxic to dogs? Yes, peace lilies are toxic to dogs and can cause oral irritation, vomiting, drooling, swelling, and difficulty swallowing due to the insoluble calcium oxalates they contain.
Marigolds
Are Marigolds Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, marigolds are poisonous to dogs. Marigolds, also known as African marigolds, French marigolds, Calendula officinalis, and pot marigolds, are stunning, bright flowers popular for their cheerful looks. However, these flowers are also toxic to pets, although their toxicity is considered mild according to the Pet Poison Helpline. Consumption may cause some irritation to the gastrointestinal system, and contact with marigold sap can cause skin irritation. Overall, marigolds are considered mildly toxic and typically aren’t considered a huge cause for concern.
Milkweed
Is Milkweed Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, milkweed is poisonous to dogs. Milkweed is a beautiful flowering plant that, unfortunately, contains cardiotoxins and neurotoxins. Common milkweed poisoning symptoms include diarrhea, seizures, weakness, depression, and, in severe cases, organ failure, difficulty breathing, and death. As a result, milkweeds should be kept out of your dog’s reach at all times.
Monsteras
Are Monsteras Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, monsteras are toxic to dogs. Monsteras go by many names, including Hurricane Plant, Swiss Cheese Plant, Mexican Breadfruit, Ceriman, Window Leaf Plant, and Split-leaf Philodendron. They are part of the Araceae plant family and contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, nausea, difficulty swallowing, and intense burning in your dog’s mouth.
Mums
Are Mums Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, mums are poisonous to dogs. Mums, also known as Chrysanthemums, are common flowers used in decorating the inside and outside of a home. These flowers contain multiple toxins, lactones, and pyrethrins. Mums are not typically lethal to dogs, but consuming any part of the plant can cause confusion, loss of coordination, excessive drooling, rashes, vomiting, and diarrhea. Typically, dogs need to eat many mums to feel the effects, but it’s still essential to exert caution with these flowers around dogs.
Orchids
Are Orchids Poisonous to Dogs?
No, orchids are not poisonous to dogs. Orchids are beautiful flowers that look great inside and out. ASPCA classifies the Phalaenopsis Orchid, also known as the Moth Orchid or Moon Orchid, as non-toxic.
Peonies
Are Peonies Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, peonies are poisonous to dogs. Peonies, also known as common peonies, are an early spring blooming shrub with gorgeous, large flowers that come in white, red, and pink. Pet parents should be wary because peonies contain paeonol, a toxin found in the bark. If a dog consumes peonies, they can experience various gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Poinsettias
Are Poinsettias Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, poinsettias are poisonous to dogs. Poinsettias are considered mildly toxic to dogs because they have a low level of toxicity that rarely causes serious side effects. Typically, poinsettia poisoning occurs when a dog comes into contact with the white sap, which has detergent-like chemicals, that can cause diarrhea, drooling, skin irritation, and vomiting when consumed in large amounts. However, it’s generally considered low risk to have poinsettias around your home during the holidays when they are out of reach. Overall, if you’re wondering if poinsettia are poisonous to dogs, the answer is yes, but they are a minimal risk generally.
Pothos
Are Pothos Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, pothos are poisonous to dogs. All varieties of pothos, or devil’s ivy, are toxic to dogs. Devil’s ivy has poisonous leaves, roots, and seeds, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly liver failure. Dogs may also experience an irritated tongue and mouth, making swallowing and salivation difficult. These plants are dangerous and should be avoided around our furry friends.
Roses
Are Roses Toxic to Dogs?
No, roses are not toxic to dogs. Roses are an excellent option for pet parents looking to create a beautiful garden or landscape because they are considered non-toxic for dogs and cats. However, it’s important to note that some plants are called “roses” but aren’t actually roses, so make sure that the plant’s official name contains the word “Rosa” to verify that it’s non-toxic. Roses can also be dangerous due to their thorns and care products, like fertilizers and mulch.
Sago Palm
Is Sago Palm Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, sago palm is poisonous to dogs. Sago palms are commonly used as houseplants and in landscaping. Unfortunately, the entire plant is poisonous to dogs, especially the seed pods, which a dog may mistake for a toy. Sago palms contain cycasin which can be fatal, even if only one seed is consumed. If your dog ingests any part of this plant, immediately take them to the emergency vet.
Snake Plants
Are Snake Plants Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, snake plants are toxic to dogs. Snake plants are great houseplants that are easy to care for. However, snake plants are toxic to dogs and can cause intestinal problems, like diarrhea and vomiting. If you’re wondering why snake plants are toxic to dogs, it’s because they contain saponins, which can quickly aggravate a dog’s system. Watch out for the many names snake plants go by, including Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Good Luck Plants, and Golden Bird’s Nests.
Succulents
Are Succulents Poisonous to Dogs?
No, most succulents are not poisonous to dogs. Succulents are small, easy to care for plants that add color and life to a home. However, they come in a wide variety of species, making it difficult to determine which succulents are poisonous and which aren’t.
Some non-toxic succulents include Chinese money plants, hens and chicks, bunny ear cacti, and variegated wax plants. Toxic succulent plants include jade plants, Mother in Law’s tongue, string of pearls, and pencil cacti. We always recommend double-checking to see if the succulent you’re interested in is non-toxic or toxic to dogs.
Tulips
Are Tulips Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, tulips are toxic to dogs. While tulips are beautiful springtime blooms, their bulbs are especially harmful, because they contain the toxins tulipalin A and B. These toxins can cause hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and depression in dogs when consumed.
Wisteria
Is Wisteria Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, wisteria are poisonous to dogs. Wisteria can cause collapse, vomiting, confusion, diarrhea, and agitation. These beautiful climbing vines grow stunning flowers with seedpods that contain a high dose of the toxins lectin and wisterin. Unfortunately, these toxins can be lethal even if only a few seeds are eaten.
Wisteria seedpods are especially dangerous because, unlike some poisonous plants, they don’t have an unpleasant taste, nor do they cause immediate pain, so your dog may continue eating them. As a result, wisteria are not a plant you want to keep around your furry friend.
Signs of Dog Poisoning
If you believe your dog has consumed a poisonous plant or substance, it’s important that you act immediately. Here are some of the most common signs of dog poisoning:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremors
- Agitation
- Excessive or sudden drooling
- Confusion or unsteadiness
- Pale gums
- Oral irritation (swelling or burns in mouth/tongue)
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Seizures
- Lethargy
- Trouble breathing
- Collapse
- Unusual body temperature (low or high)
- Swelling, especially around the face
- Behavior changes (certain toxins cause hyperactivity, excitement, or “drunkness”)
If your dog is displaying signs of poisoning, act quickly and call the vet or dog poison control helpline for immediate steps on what you can do to help your pup. If your dog has extreme symptoms, such as collapse, trouble breathing, seizures, etc., immediately take them to the nearest vet emergency center. Time is of the essence with pet poisonings, and a vet is your best bet for getting your dog the treatment they need as fast as possible.
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