Many of our favorite plants, while gorgeous to look at, are poisonous to dogs and should be avoided. Puppies and young dogs are especially curious and enjoy nibbling, so prevent any mishaps by being aware of which plants are actually dangerous.
Dogs, like many animals, frequently use their mouths to learn and explore. It comes naturally for animals to lick, chew, and chomp on plant matter and other objects in their immediate environment, but unfortunately this can result in gastrointestinal problems, infections, or more severe health problems, even death.
There are some poisonous plants for dogs that are persistent, so take a close look at your yard and replace the main offenders with safer varieties. While most dogs learn from experience or develop an instinctive wariness for strong-smelling plants or those that are high in toxins, there are some poisonous plants for dogs that are persistent.
Poisonous plants are not always obvious; from shrubs with gorgeous foliage to delicate seasonal beauties like narcissus, tulips, and cyclamen, we’ve compiled a guide to the most common ones so you and your dog can enjoy home life outside without stress.
Daffodils (Image credit: Leigh Clapp)
Avoid planting daffodil and narcissus bulbs if your dog enjoys nibbling on plants because they, like many other flowering bulbs, contain lycorine, a chemical that can cause severe illness if licked, chewed, or swallowed.
Even a small amount of crystals, which are present in varying numbers in all parts of the bulb, stem, leaves, and flower, can cause drooling and skin irritation.
Lily of the valley (Image credit: Unsplash; Oceane George)
The delicate nodding white bells of Lily-of-the-Valley are a common sight in the wild and gardens, and they grow widely in USDA Zones 2 to 9. If given enough moisture, these plants can grow quickly and make some of the best shade plants. However, cat parents should be aware that these fragrant beauties are not suitable for cats.
Even the smallest part of the plant, which contains over 38 cardenolides, can cause severe heart irregularities and gastro irritation in most animals.
If you believe your pet may have consumed lily of the valley in whole or in part, go to the vet right away because your pet’s life could be in danger, advises FirstVet (opens in new tab). The pet’s size, health, how much was consumed, and what part of the plant was eaten all have an impact on the prognosis. Consumption of the bulb could result in death within a few hours despite the fact that all parts are poisonous. ’.
English ivy (Image credit: Alamy)
This attractive evergreen climber and ground cover plant is a mainstay of the northern hemisphere and is frequently seen both in the wild and sprawling through backyards.
Ivy is a common choice for window boxes, planters, and hanging baskets and is frequently sold in plant nurseries and online retailers, but it is best to avoid it if you have a curious dog at home. And if you already have it, it’s best to remove any ivy if your dog enjoys chewing on plants.
Experts at the Pet Poison Helpline (opens in new tab) advise: ‘The leaves and berries of English Ivy contain the toxin pentacyclic terpenoids. Clinical signs drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea are expected following ingestion by pets.’
FAQ
Does pampas grass make dogs sick?
Which ornamental grasses are toxic to dogs?
Poisonous varieties of arrowgrass cause coma, death, rapid breathing, salivation, twitching muscles, and other symptoms. The grass palm, Cordyline australis, is not toxic to humans, but it can be dangerous if consumed by cats or dogs, according to the ASPCA
Is pampas grass poisonous to dogs UK?
Although harmless, the fluffy seed heads of pampas grass can cause dogs’ throats and digestive systems to become extremely irritated.
Is any grass poisonous to dogs?
Since horses and cows frequently consume grass, a common misconception is that dogs can become ill from doing so. However, dogs can also safely consume grass. Dogs must consume roughage, and grass is a good source of fiber.