Plants are a great way to decorate your home and environment, with the additional benefits of being air purifiers, mood lifters, productivity boosters and overall beneficial for mental health. The plant parent in you may be shocked that plants toxic to dogs is a real concern, because as a loving dog parent, we do all we can to create a safe environment for our furry companions.

Dogs, with their curious nature, may sometimes nibble on plants out of curiosity or boredom. This behavior can have severe consequences if plants toxic to dogs are easily accessible. Prevention is key when it comes to protecting our furry friends from plant toxicity. There is no reason to keep all plants out of our homes and environments, just plants toxic to dogs.

5 Plants Toxic to Dogs

So, let’s unearth 5 common plants toxic to dogs and safe alternatives that will beautify and provide us with all the benefits plants have to offer.

Aloe

Aloe vera

Toxic components: Saponins and anthraquinones

Despite the Aloe plant’s popularity for its healing properties, aloe contains saponins and anthraquinones, making it one of the plants toxic to dogs.

It’s like having a double-edged sword in your home—a plant with both benefits and risks. While you may enjoy the soothing properties of aloe, your dog could suffer from lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea if they ingest it.

Your dog won’t be able to communicate their discomfort verbally, so it’s crucial to watch out for signs of ingestion. Lethargy and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea are common indicators of aloe toxicity.

Alternative

To safeguard your pet, consider opting for a safer alternative like zebra haworthia, which not only adds beauty to your space but also poses no threat to your furry companion. Ensure your dog’s well-being without sacrificing greenery in your environment.

Golden Pothos

Epipremnum aureum

Toxic component: Insoluble calcium oxalates

The golden pothos is a winding plant that adds aesthetic appeal to spaces, however, it harbors insoluble calcium oxalates, which can spell trouble for your furry friend.

Imagine tiny glass-like crystals causing discomfort and irritation in your dog’s mouth. Symptoms like oral itching, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing are telltale signs of golden pothos ingestion.

Alternative

A prayer plant is the path to keep your dog safe and achieve a similar aesthetic. With its lush, broad leaves, it offers a comparable visual appeal without the risk of toxicity.

Sago Palm

Cycas revoluta

Toxic component: Cycasin

The sago palm is visually appealing and low-maintenance, however, this plant contains cycasin, (which is a carcinogenic and neurotoxic glucoside)  making it one of the plants toxic to dogs.

Imagine the distress your furry friend could experience if they ingested parts of the sago palm. Symptoms such as severe vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and neurological issues could ensue, potentially leading to liver failure and even death.

Alternative

To safeguard your dog’s well-being, beautify your environment with a parlor palm instead of a sago palm. This alternative adds charm to your indoor space and eliminates the risk of cycasin toxicity, ensuring a safe environment for your beloved companion.

Azaleas

Rhododendron

Toxic component: Grayantoxin

Azaleas are a captivating sight, but did you know they pose serious risks to your canine companion? Every part of the azalea plant contains grayantoxins, which are toxic diterpenoids that cause neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity as well as strong gastrointestinal reactions. Making azalea plants toxic to dogs.

Imagine the discomfort your furry friend could experience if they ingested any part of the azalea plant. From hypersalivation to muscle weakness and even cardiovascular collapse, the consequences can be severe.

Alternative

Pink-hued bromeliad plants are dog safe without compromising a captivating sight, by offering a similar burst of color.

Dumb cane

Dieffenbachia

Toxic components: Insoluble calcium oxalates and proteolytic enzyme

The lush dumb cane plant may look inviting, but it harbors toxins harmful to your furry friend. Its insoluble calcium oxalates can cause severe reactions if ingested.

Imagine the discomfort your dog could experience if they chewed on or ingested this plant. From vomiting to oral pain and skin irritation, the symptoms can be distressing.

Even mere contact with the dumb cane can lead to adverse effects on your dog. Prompt action, such as flushing the eyes and skin, is crucial to reduce any potential harm.

Alternative

A money tree plant, which boasts similar broad leaves but is entirely safe for dogs is a blessing compared to the potential dangers of a dumb cane plant. Plus, who knows? It might even bring a bit of luck your way!

Although we know that some plants are toxic to dogs, it’s difficult to say for certain that a plant won’t cause any problems if it’s eaten or chewed. Additionally, identifying species of plants can be really challenging and most plants will cause a problem if your pet eats a lot of them.

It’s safest to keep plants out of paws reach so they don’t try to eat or nibble on them. It’s best to keep an eye on your dog when they’re out in the garden or on walks to check they haven’t found a plant that could be a danger to them.

Symptoms and Result of Ingestion of Plants Toxic to Dogs

Almost every dog will chew on a plant at some point in their lives. Toxic plants affect dogs in many ways. Some plants toxic to dogs, just lead to a little vomiting and diarrhea, while others can have serious effects on a dog’s heart, liver, kidneys, and neurologic system (brain and nerves).

Recognizing the symptoms of plant toxicity is crucial for prompt intervention. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and even seizures. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if a dog shows any signs of plant poisoning.

The implications of dogs ingesting toxic plants can be dire. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to organ damage or even death. Even mild cases can result in discomfort and distress for our beloved pets.

Symptoms of Plant Toxicity to Dogs

The most common symptoms of plant toxicity in dogs are related to their effect on the digestive tract. Other clinical signs are possible, depending on the type of plant that your dog ingests.

Symptoms may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Trouble swallowing
• Skin irritation
• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Collapse
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Lack of coordination
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Breathing problems
• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Abnormal bleeding and bruising
• Coma
• Excessive drinking
• Excessive urinating/peeing

What to Do if Dog Ingests a Toxic Plant

If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant, act quickly. Remove any remnants from their mouth, and contact your veterinarian immediately. Provide as much information as possible about the plant ingested.

Your Vet can provide specific advice tailored to your dog’s situation and may recommend appropriate treatment if necessary. Never induce vomiting at home unless your veterinarian has told you to. Making a dog vomit can make them sicker if it’s done incorrectly or under the wrong circumstances.

The Pet Poison Helpline is available 24/7 by calling (855) 764-7661.

You can also call the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 for guidance.

Prognosis of Plant Toxicity in Dogs

Typically, most dogs can recover from ingesting toxic plants with prompt veterinary care. However, there are exceptions to this rule. In cases where a dog ingests a large amount of a toxic plant or if the plant acts quickly, the outcome can be dire. Sadly, some dogs may succumb to the toxicity before treatment can take effect.

The key lies in swift action and getting your furry friend the help they need as soon as possible. So, if you suspect your dog has ingested any part of plants toxic to dogs, seek veterinary attention immediately. Think of it as a race against time, where every second counts. By acting fast, you’re giving your dog the best chance at a favorable outcome. Remember, your furry friend is counting on you to be their advocate in times of need. In the end, the prognosis of plant toxicity in dogs hinges on prompt intervention and proper medical care. While it can be a frightening experience, knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in your dog’s recovery.

Conclusion

While plants offer numerous benefits to our homes and environment, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential risks they pose to our beloved canine companions. The reality of plants toxic to dogs can be surprising, considering our efforts to create safe spaces for our furry friends.

Dogs tend to explore the world with their mouths, which puts them at risk of licking, chewing or eating a toxic plant. Not all parts of plants toxic to dogs are toxic, for example, in some plants only the bulbs or berries will cause problems. But it’s better to keep our dogs away from the whole plant to be safe.

Understanding the plants toxic to dogs and recognizing symptoms of plant toxicity are crucial in safeguarding the well-being of our canine companions, empowering us to take proactive measures to protect our pets. Before bringing a new plant home, we recommend you consult the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List or the Pet Poison Helpline’s Poison List to make sure it is safe for your dog.

Ultimately, being mindful of the plants we bring into our homes and environments is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of our loyal companions in creating a safe environment where our dogs can thrive.

FAQs

Q1.: What are some common plants toxic to dogs?

A: Aloe (Aloe Vera), Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta, Azaleas (Rhododendron), and Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) are 5 common plants toxic to dogs.

Q2.: What are the symptoms of plant toxicity in dogs?

A: Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and seizures.

Q3.: How can I prevent my dog from ingesting toxic plants?

A: Keep toxic plants out of reach, better yet, replace them with dog-friendly alternatives.

Q4.: What should I do if my dog ingests a toxic plant?

A: Remove any remnants from their mouth and contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance. You can also call the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 for guidance.

Q5.: Are there safe alternatives to toxic plants for dogs?

A: Yes, there are many dog-friendly plants, that can beautify your space without posing a risk to your furry friend, such as: zebra haworthia, parlor palm, Pink-hued bromeliads, money tree plant and prayer plant.

Understanding the potential dangers of toxic plants and recognizing the symptoms of plant toxicity is essential for safeguarding our canine companions. By taking proactive measures to prevent access to toxic plants and seeking prompt veterinary care if ingestion occurs, we can create a safer environment for our furry friends. Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in ensuring the well-being of our beloved pets.