Many of the plants we keep in the living room or in the flower bed are toxic to dogs. Among the best known are lily of the valley, azalea, rhododendron, yew, laburnum, holly, mistletoe, poinsettia, hyacinth, tulip and daffodil bulbs, as well as the popular houseplant dieffenbachia. Added to these is a range of tubers and bulbs such as autumn crocus and crown imperial. How serious it becomes depends on the plant, the amount and your dog's size - and that is precisely why it is important to know what you have around and when you need to act.
This guide gives you an overview of which plants you should be especially aware of in the garden and indoors, why some dogs start gnawing on plants at all, and what you should do if you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic. We do not write about symptoms, amounts or treatment - that belongs with your vet, who should always be contacted if you have any suspicion.
Toxic garden plants you should know
The garden holds several plants that can be dangerous if the dog chews on them. Yew is one of the most serious - its needles, bark and the red berries with their seeds are all considered toxic. Laburnum is toxic in all its parts, and the pod-shaped seeds tempt some dogs. Rhododendron and azalea belong to the same family and contain substances that can affect the dog, even in smaller amounts.
Lily of the valley is also worth keeping an eye on, as the whole plant is considered toxic. The same applies to autumn crocus, which often grows wild in meadows and gardens, as well as the tubers and bulbs of the crown imperial. Among shrubs and hedge plants you should be aware of holly and privet. If any of these grow where the dog roams freely, it is a good idea to put them behind a fence or remove them entirely.
Toxic flower bulbs in the bed and in the vase
Spring flower bulbs are an overlooked source of poisoning. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and crocuses contain substances that are especially concentrated in the bulb itself. The problem typically arises in the autumn, when the bulbs have just been placed in the ground and smell new and exciting, or if a bag of bulbs is left accessible in the shed. Digging dogs can reach the bulbs before they have even sprouted.
Cut flowers in a vase also pose a risk, because the water can absorb substances from the stems. So place bouquets out of the dog's reach, and clean up if leaves or petals fall on the floor. Also pay attention to where you store flower bulbs during the winter months.
Toxic houseplants and Christmas greenery
Indoors, dieffenbachia is one of the most frequent reasons dog owners call the vet, because it is common and found in many homes. Peace lily, philodendron and certain species of dracaena are also considered toxic to dogs if they are chewed. If the plants stand on the floor or in a low windowsill, they are easy for a curious dog to reach.
Around Christmas the risk increases, because several of the season's plants are problematic. Poinsettia, holly and mistletoe all belong to those you should place high up and out of reach. The same applies to amaryllis, whose bulb is toxic. A good rule of thumb in December is to treat decorative plants as something the dog should never be able to reach.
Why do dogs start gnawing on plants?
Most dogs instinctively avoid bitter or sharp plants, but not all. Puppies and young dogs explore the world with their mouths and may end up chewing on leaves and stems out of pure curiosity or boredom. Some dogs munch on grass and plants when they feel like gnawing on something, and a few do it if they lack stimulation in everyday life.
That is why it often helps to combine clearing away the toxic plants with activities that give the dog something it is allowed to use its mouth on. A chew treat or an activity that takes time can shift attention away from the potted plants. If you have a puppy that is particularly in the exploratory phase, you can find chew-friendly treats in puppy treats, and in dog treats you will find a wider selection for the adult dog. A THE LICKING MAT is another way to provide calm activity when the dog needs to settle down.
How to react if you suspect poisoning
If you suspect your dog has eaten a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately. Do not guess whether the amount is too small to matter - it is the vet who assesses the situation. Do not wait for something visible to happen, but call as soon as you discover it.
It helps the vet if you can tell them which plant is involved, and preferably when and how much the dog may have ingested. Take a picture of the plant or keep a bitten-off stem so it can be identified. Never try to induce vomiting on your own or give the dog anything unless the vet asks you to - incorrect handling can make the harm worse.
How to create a safe home and a safe garden
The best protection is knowing your plants. Take a walk around the home and garden and note what is there, so you can look up any doubtful cases or ask a plant nursery. If there are toxic plants where the dog roams, you can move them up high, put them behind a fence or replace them with dog-friendly alternatives. Be extra attentive during the periods when you plant flower bulbs, and around Christmas.
Remember that plants are only one part of the picture. Several common foods are also harmful to dogs, and you can read more in the guide what dogs must not eat. If you are in doubt about what your dog may and may not have, or if you would like to talk through diet and feeding, the NUTRITION ADVISORS at ESSENTIAL FOODS are ready by phone, chat and email to advise on exactly food and nutrition. For anything concerning health and suspicion of poisoning, it is your vet you should call.