Which plants are poisonous to dogs? Some plants that are completely harmless to humans can be poisonous to dogs. Dogs process certain substances differently, which is why even common houseplants or garden plants can cause health problems if they nibble on them.
In this article, you'll discover poisonous plants for dogs and which plants you should avoid to protect your dog. Whether you've had a four-legged friend for a long time or just adopted a puppy, this knowledge will help you make your home and yard safer for your dog. Read on to find out which plants are poisonous to dogs.
Why it's important to know about poisonous plants for dogs
Knowing which plants are toxic to dogs is crucial to keeping your four-legged friend healthy and safe. Which plants are toxic to dogs? Even small amounts of common plants like lilies, ivy, or azaleas can cause serious health problems—from gastrointestinal upset to organ failure. Being aware of your dog's eating habits and paying attention can prevent many emergencies before they occur. Equally important is a healthy diet. Learn more about why a grain-free diet can be a good choice for your dog.
Poisonous plants for dogs
Many plants popular in gardens, homes, and apartments are toxic to dogs and should therefore be handled with caution. Some plants contain toxins that can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, or even serious poisoning in dogs. Here are some of the most common poisonous plants you should definitely avoid:
Hyacinths: Toxic in all parts, especially the bulbs; causes vomiting and diarrhea.
Tulips: Flower bulbs are particularly dangerous; they cause severe vomiting and stomach irritation.
Daffodils: Contain toxic alkaloids in the bulbs; can cause severe vomiting and breathing problems.
Oleander: Extremely toxic, even a few leaves can be fatal; causes heart problems and vomiting.
Autumn crocus: Very poisonous, acts similarly to arsenic; often leads to fatal poisoning.
Cyclamen: The roots in particular are poisonous; causes severe poisoning if consumed.
Amaryllis: Toxic in all parts, but especially the bulbs; causes vomiting and abdominal pain.
Delphinium: Seeds and young plants are poisonous; cause digestive disorders and muscle tremors.
Foxglove and lily of the valley: Highly toxic; cause cardiac arrhythmias and stomach problems.
Yew trees: Contain numerous toxins; lead to severe poisoning, often with fatal outcome.
Chrysanthemums: Mildly toxic, but veterinary treatment is necessary if consumed in large quantities; causes stomach irritation.
Hydrangeas: Contain hydrogen cyanide, which is toxic to dogs; causes stomach problems and lethargy.
Monkshood: All parts are highly toxic; cause vomiting and severe heart problems.
Sweet peas: All parts are poisonous and can cause severe poisoning.
Caladium: Very toxic in all parts; causes severe irritation of the mouth and throat.
Daisy: Mildly toxic, veterinary treatment recommended if consumed in large quantities; causes mild irritation.
Azaleas: Toxic, but with mild symptoms; causes vomiting and weakness.
Ivy: Leaves and berries are poisonous; they can cause severe poisoning and even coma.
Grapevines: Grapes are extremely toxic to dogs; they can cause acute kidney failure.
Lilies: Particularly dangerous for cats, but also poisonous for dogs; cause severe pain and poisoning.
Holly: Leaves and berries are poisonous; cause symptoms of poisoning within a few hours.
It should go without saying that water from poisonous plants that collects in a pot or saucer should be stored safely and out of reach of dogs so that they cannot drink it.
Which are the most poisonous plants for dogs?
One of the most poisonous plants for dogs is oleander. Swallowing even a few leaves can be fatal. The plant contains potent cardiac glycosides, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias, vomiting, increased salivation, and in severe cases, even death.
The autumn crocus is also extremely poisonous. It contains colchicine, an active ingredient with similar effects to arsenic – a powerful cytotoxin that can damage vital organs. Symptoms often only appear after a few days and range from severe gastrointestinal upset to organ failure and fatal poisoning. Many dogs are curious and explore their surroundings with their snouts – but if dogs eat poisonous plants, the consequences can be life-threatening. These plants are extremely dangerous and should never be accessible to dogs.
Poisonous houseplants for dogs
Many popular houseplants can be dangerous for dogs if they nibble on them or swallow parts. While they may enhance our homes, their toxic properties should not be underestimated – they can cause serious health problems. Unfortunately, poisonous plants for dogs are not uncommon in homes, so caution is advised. The most common houseplants that are unsuitable for dogs include:
Cyclamen – especially the roots are poisonous; can cause vomiting, increased salivation, and even seizures
Amaryllis – poisonous in all parts of the plant, especially the bulb
Ivy – leaves and berries can cause severe poisoning
Lilies – dangerous especially for cats, but also harmful for dogs
Holly – leaves and berries can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and listlessness
Many dogs are curious—but if they eat poisonous plants, it can quickly become a serious emergency. Houseplants should always be kept out of your dog's reach—and it's best to observe how they react to greenery in the house.
Poisonous plants commonly found in the garden
The garden is a place for many dogs to play and explore – but some plants can be dangerous for our four-legged friends. A quick look at the plants can help protect your dog from health risks. You should avoid these garden plants or keep them out of reach:
Tulips – especially the bulbs; can cause stomach problems
Daffodils – contain toxic substances that can cause vomiting and breathing problems
Delphinium – young plants and seeds are poisonous to dogs
Foxglove – contains heart toxins that can impair circulation
Yew – highly toxic, even small amounts are dangerous
Azaleas – can cause weakness and vomiting
Grapevines – Grapes are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney problems
Buttercup – can cause salivation, vomiting and tremors
A little plant knowledge will help make the garden a safe place for your dog.
A safe garden for your dog
Creating a safe garden for your dog means more than just a solid fence—it's also about choosing the right plants and garden features to ensure your four-legged friend feels completely at home. Opt for non-toxic, dog-friendly plants like lavender, marigolds, sunflowers, or rosemary. Not only do they look beautiful, but they're also safe if curious noses or mouths get too close.
A vegetable patch can be a great addition—carrots are a healthy, crunchy snack for dogs. Tomatoes are also acceptable in moderation when ripe and fed without stems or leaves, as these are toxic. However, caution should be taken with nuts: Many varieties, such as macadamia nuts, are toxic to dogs. Others can cause digestive problems or pose a choking hazard. With a little planning, you can create a garden where your dog can safely play, sniff, and relax.
Signs that your pet has eaten something poisonous
If your pet has eaten something poisonous, various symptoms may appear that indicate poisoning. Pay particular attention to the following signs:
Inflammation in the mouth: swelling or redness in the mouth
Excessive drooling: Significantly increased salivation
Vomiting and diarrhea: Often accompanied by blood in the vomit or stool
Swallowing and breathing difficulties: difficulty swallowing or breathing
Loss of appetite: Your pet refuses to eat
Tiredness or fatigue: Unusual lethargy or weakness
Tremors or stiffness: Muscle twitches or stiff limbs
Fever and increased heart rate: signs of a physical reaction to toxins
Increased thirst: Unusually large drinking behavior
If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your furry friend, you should consult your veterinarian immediately. A quick response can be crucial, as many toxins can have serious consequences within a short period of time. The safest way to protect your dog is to avoid potentially dangerous plants and substances and to pay close attention to any unusual behavior.
What should you do if a dog has eaten poisonous plants?
If your dog has eaten something poisonous, quick action is crucial. Call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately and provide all relevant information, such as the type of poison ingested and the estimated amount. This information will help the veterinarian take the appropriate measures quickly.
You should refrain from administering medication on your own, as many medications work differently in dogs than in humans.
Once at the vet, they may administer treatments such as IV fluids or special medications to neutralize the toxins and save your dog's life. Be sure to closely monitor your dog after poisoning to ensure no further complications arise.
Conclusion: What is toxic to dogs?
Before a new four-legged friend moves in with you, it's especially important to know what's poisonous to dogs—and what isn't. Your dog's health and safety are your responsibility. A good awareness of poisonous plants and foods, as well as their potential symptoms and consequences, is crucial to protecting your dog from serious dangers. Being informed and avoiding potential risks creates the best conditions for a long, happy, and healthy dog life. Share this knowledge with other dog owners—you can help protect their furry friends, too.
Looking for information about toxic foods instead of plants? Then read our article on foods dogs shouldn't eat.
Plants poisonous to dogs - Frequently asked questions
Which leaves are dangerous for dogs?
Leaves from plants such as oleander, ivy, yew, and foxglove are highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can trigger serious symptoms such as vomiting, heart problems, or even organ failure. Such plants, which are toxic to dogs, should therefore be kept out of your four-legged friend's reach. It's especially worth keeping a watchful eye for plants toxic to dogs in gardens or while walking.
Which herbs are poisonous to dogs?
Some well-known herbs are also considered poisonous to dogs. These include chives, parsley (especially the curly variety in large quantities), pennyroyal, comfrey, and tarragon. These can trigger symptoms such as vomiting, liver damage, or even seizures. If you want to feed herbs, always check beforehand whether they are safe for dogs – even seemingly harmless plants can be toxic to dogs.
Can dogs eat thyme and oregano?
In small amounts, thyme and oregano are generally safe for dogs and can even have beneficial effects. However, too much can irritate the stomach. Use only fresh herbs and avoid essential oils—they are highly concentrated and are also among the plants that can be toxic to dogs.
