House and Garden Plants Poisonous to Dogs: A Complete Guide for Pet Owners
- DaMon Clemons
- Feb 4
- 8 min read
As a dog owner, creating a safe environment for your furry friend is a top priority. While we often focus on keeping harmful foods and chemicals away from our pets, many common house and garden plants can pose serious health risks to dogs. This comprehensive guide will help you identify toxic plants, recognize symptoms of poisoning, and take the right steps to protect your beloved companion.
Why Plant Toxicity Matters
Dogs are naturally curious creatures who explore their environment with their mouths. A seemingly innocent nibble on a houseplant or garden flower can lead to anything from mild stomach upset to life-threatening complications. Understanding which plants are dangerous and what to do if your dog ingests one can be the difference between a minor scare and a medical emergency.
Common House Plants Poisonous to Dogs
1. Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta)
Toxicity Level: Extremely High - All parts are toxic, especially seeds
The sago palm is one of the most dangerous plants for dogs. Even small amounts can cause severe liver failure.
Toxic Component: Cycasin
Common Symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea (often bloody)
Lethargy and weakness
Seizures
Liver failure (may appear 2-3 days after ingestion)
Jaundice (yellowing of gums and eyes)
Increased thirst and urination
2. Philodendron (Philodendron species)
Toxicity Level: Moderate to High
This popular houseplant contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate irritation.
Toxic Component: Calcium oxalate crystals
Common Symptoms:
Oral irritation and burning sensation
Excessive drooling
Difficulty swallowing
Pawing at the mouth
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
3. Pothos/Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Toxicity Level: Moderate
One of the most common houseplants, pothos is toxic to dogs and can cause significant discomfort.
Toxic Component: Calcium oxalate crystals
Common Symptoms:
Oral pain and irritation
Excessive drooling
Vomiting
Difficulty swallowing
Loss of appetite
4. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Toxicity Level: Moderate to High
Also known as "dumb cane" because of the temporary inability to speak it can cause in humans.
Toxic Component: Calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes
Common Symptoms:
Intense oral pain
Excessive drooling
Swelling of mouth, tongue, and lips
Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
Vomiting
5. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Toxicity Level: Moderate
This trendy, low-maintenance plant contains compounds that can irritate your dog's system.
Toxic Component: Calcium oxalate crystals
Common Symptoms:
Stomach upset
Vomiting and diarrhea
Oral irritation
Drooling
6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Toxicity Level: Moderate
Despite its gentle name, the peace lily can cause considerable distress to dogs.
Toxic Component: Calcium oxalate crystals
Common Symptoms:
Oral irritation and burning
Excessive drooling
Difficulty swallowing
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
7. Snake Plant/Mother-in-Law's Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Toxicity Level: Low to Moderate
This hardy succulent contains saponins that can upset your dog's digestive system.
Toxic Component: Saponins
Common Symptoms:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
8. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Toxicity Level: Moderate
Both house and garden varieties of English ivy are toxic to dogs.
Toxic Component: Triterpenoid saponins and polyacetylene compounds
Common Symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Excessive drooling
Weakness
In severe cases: difficulty breathing and coordination problems
Common Garden Plants Poisonous to Dogs
9. Azaleas and Rhododendrons (Rhododendron species)
Toxicity Level: High - Even small amounts are dangerous
These beautiful flowering shrubs are extremely toxic to dogs and can cause serious cardiovascular issues.
Toxic Component: Grayanotoxins
Common Symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Drooling
Loss of appetite
Weakness and lethargy
Depression
Abnormal heart rate (too slow or irregular)
Tremors and seizures (in severe cases)
Coma and death (in severe cases)
10. Oleander (Nerium oleander)
Toxicity Level: Extremely High - All parts are deadly
Oleander is one of the most poisonous plants commonly found in gardens. Even small amounts can be fatal.
Toxic Component: Cardiac glycosides (oleandrin and neriine)
Common Symptoms:
Drooling
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea (may be bloody)
Abnormal heart rate
Tremors
Seizures
Death (even with treatment)
11. Tulips and Daffodils (Tulipa and Narcissus species)
Toxicity Level: Moderate - Bulbs are most toxic
Spring bulb flowers are particularly dangerous if dogs dig them up and chew on the bulbs.
Toxic Component: Alkaloids (especially concentrated in bulbs)
Common Symptoms:
Intense gastrointestinal irritation
Drooling
Vomiting and diarrhea
Depression
Tremors (in severe cases)
Cardiac abnormalities (in severe cases)
12. Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)
Toxicity Level: High
This fragrant spring flower contains compounds that affect the heart.
Toxic Component: Cardiac glycosides
Common Symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Decreased heart rate
Severe cardiac arrhythmias
Disorientation and confusion
Seizures
13. Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
Toxicity Level: Extremely High
Beautiful but deadly, foxglove contains the same compounds used in heart medications.
Toxic Component: Cardiac glycosides (digitoxin)
Common Symptoms:
Drooling
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Weakness
Abnormal heart rate and rhythm
Tremors
Seizures
Death
14. Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale)
Toxicity Level: Extremely High
Not to be confused with spring crocuses (which are less toxic), autumn crocus can cause multi-organ failure.
Toxic Component: Colchicine
Common Symptoms:
Severe vomiting and diarrhea (often bloody)
Drooling
Difficulty breathing
Kidney and liver damage
Bone marrow suppression
Seizures
Death
15. Yew (Taxus species)
Toxicity Level: Extremely High - All parts except berry flesh are toxic
Yew is commonly used in landscaping and hedges but is extremely dangerous.
Toxic Component: Taxine alkaloids
Common Symptoms:
Trembling and incoordination
Difficulty breathing
Vomiting (not always present)
Sudden heart failure
Death (often occurs quickly without warning signs)
16. Castor Bean (Ricinus communis)
Toxicity Level: Extremely High
Contains one of the most toxic naturally occurring substances.
Toxic Component: Ricin (concentrated in seeds)
Common Symptoms:
Severe abdominal pain
Drooling
Vomiting and diarrhea (may be bloody)
Excessive thirst
Weakness and lethargy
Loss of appetite
Dehydration
Tremors and seizures
Death
17. Hydrangea (Hydrangea species)
Toxicity Level: Moderate
These popular flowering shrubs contain cyanogenic glycosides.
Toxic Component: Cyanogenic glycosides
Common Symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Lethargy
Depression
In severe cases: difficulty breathing and increased heart rate
18. Morning Glory (Ipomoea species)
Toxicity Level: Low to Moderate - Seeds are most toxic
While flowers are mildly toxic, the seeds contain hallucinogenic compounds.
Toxic Component: Lysergic acid alkaloids (in seeds)
Common Symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Hallucinations and disorientation
Tremors
Lack of coordination
19. Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum)
Toxicity Level: Moderate - Green parts and unripe fruit are toxic
While ripe tomatoes are safe, the plant's green parts contain toxins.
Toxic Component: Solanine and tomatine
Common Symptoms:
Gastrointestinal upset
Vomiting and diarrhea
Drooling
Loss of appetite
Weakness
Confusion (in severe cases)
Dilated pupils
20. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Toxicity Level: Moderate - Leaves are toxic
While the stalks are edible for humans, the leaves contain dangerous compounds.
Toxic Component: Oxalic acid and anthraquinone glycosides
Common Symptoms:
Drooling
Vomiting and diarrhea
Lethargy
Tremors
Kidney failure (in severe cases)
Recognizing Symptoms of Plant Poisoning in Dogs
Symptoms of plant poisoning can vary widely depending on the plant type and amount consumed. They may appear immediately or develop over several hours to days. Watch for these general warning signs:
Immediate Symptoms (Minutes to Hours)
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Pawing at the face or mouth
Vomiting or retching
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Visible mouth irritation or swelling
Developing Symptoms (Hours to Days)
Lethargy or weakness
Depression or behavioral changes
Difficulty breathing
Abnormal heart rate (too fast, too slow, or irregular)
Tremors, twitching, or seizures
Loss of coordination or stumbling
Increased thirst and urination
Jaundice (yellowing of gums, eyes, or skin)
Emergency Symptoms (Require Immediate Veterinary Care)
Collapse or inability to stand
Severe breathing difficulty
Seizures
Unconsciousness
Severe or bloody vomiting/diarrhea
Blue or pale gums
Extreme weakness or shock
What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Toxic Plant: Step-by-Step Care
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Try to identify which plant your dog consumed
Estimate how much was eaten
Note when the ingestion occurred
Observe your dog for any symptoms
Step 2: Remove Access and Collect Evidence
Immediately prevent your dog from eating more of the plant
If possible, take a photo of the plant or collect a sample in a plastic bag
Check your dog's mouth for remaining plant material (only if safe to do so)
Step 3: Contact Your Veterinarian or Pet Poison Hotline
Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling for help.
Important Phone Numbers:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
Your regular veterinarian
Nearest emergency veterinary clinic
Note: Poison control hotlines may charge a consultation fee but provide expert guidance.
Step 4: Follow Professional Guidance
DO NOT induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian. Some substances can cause more harm coming back up, and vomiting is not always appropriate.
Your veterinarian may advise you to:
Bring your dog in immediately for treatment
Monitor at home for specific symptoms
Induce vomiting (only if instructed and within 2 hours of ingestion)
Give activated charcoal (only if directed)
Step 5: Prepare for the Veterinary Visit
If you need to take your dog to the vet, bring:
A sample or photo of the plant
Any vomit or plant material your dog expelled
Information about when and how much was consumed
A list of any symptoms you've observed
Your dog's medical history and current medications
Step 6: Veterinary Treatment
Depending on the plant and severity, treatment may include:
Inducing vomiting (if appropriate and timely)
Activated charcoal to absorb toxins
Intravenous fluids for hydration and to flush toxins
Medications to control symptoms (anti-nausea, heart medications, etc.)
Monitoring of vital signs and organ function
Hospitalization for severe cases
Supportive care tailored to specific symptoms
Prevention: Creating a Dog-Safe Home and Garden
For Your Home
Research before buying: Check if plants are toxic before bringing them home
Place plants out of reach: Use hanging planters or high shelves
Create barriers: Use plant stands or furniture to block access
Supervise your dog: Watch your pet around plants, especially puppies
Provide appropriate chew toys: Reduce interest in plants by offering alternatives
For Your Garden
Choose pet-safe plants: See our safe alternatives list below
Fence off toxic plants: Create barriers around dangerous garden areas
Supervise outdoor time: Watch your dog when they're in the garden
Remove fallen leaves and flowers: Many toxic plants drop dangerous debris
Train your dog: Teach "leave it" commands and reinforce them regularly
Consider raised beds: Keep edible gardens in elevated or fenced areas
Secure compost bins: Keep dogs away from decomposing plant material
Safe Plant Alternatives for Dog Owners
Safe Houseplants
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Peperomia varieties
African Violet (Saintpaulia)
Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)
Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
Safe Garden Plants
Roses (without thorns is safer)
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Marigolds (Tagetes)
Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
Petunias (Petunia)
Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
Asters (Aster)
Safe Herbs
Basil
Rosemary
Thyme
Sage
Parsley (in moderation)
Note: While these plants are non-toxic, large amounts of any plant material can cause mild digestive upset. Always monitor your dog's plant interactions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if your dog shows any of these signs after plant ingestion:
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Seizures or tremors
Collapse or inability to stand
Loss of consciousness
Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Bloody vomit or stool
Extreme lethargy or weakness
Abnormal heart rate (you can feel this in the inner thigh)
Pale or blue gums
Severe swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
For certain highly toxic plants like sago palm, oleander, yew, or foxglove, seek emergency care immediately even if symptoms haven't appeared yet. Time is critical with these plants.
Conclusion
While the list of toxic plants may seem overwhelming, knowledge is your best defense in keeping your dog safe. By familiarizing yourself with common toxic plants, recognizing symptoms of poisoning, and knowing how to respond in an emergency, you're taking important steps to protect your furry family member.
Remember, prevention is always better than treatment. When in doubt about a plant's safety, err on the side of caution and keep it out of your dog's reach or choose a pet-safe alternative instead. Your veterinarian is also an excellent resource for questions about plant safety in your specific region.
Creating a dog-friendly home and garden doesn't mean sacrificing beauty—it just means making thoughtful choices that keep your best friend safe while still enjoying the greenery you love.
