Plants toxic to dogs
From the common garden bed to the living room windowsill, many plants that are beautiful to us are dangerous to dogs. This page covers the top 25 most hazardous species.
EMERGENCYPlants that can kill
Sago Palm
EMERGENCYSeeds most lethal; acute liver failure from cycasin. One of the most toxic plants.
Yew (Taxus sp.)
EMERGENCYTaxine alkaloids; cardiac arrest within hours. Very fast onset.
Toxic - contact your vet
Oleander
TOXICCardiac glycosides. All parts. Can be fatal in small amounts.
Foxglove (Digitalis)
TOXICDigoxin causes cardiac arrhythmias. Common in cottage gardens.
Azalea / Rhododendron
TOXICGrayanotoxins cause vomiting, weakness and cardiac effects.
Tulip (especially bulb)
TOXICBulbs most toxic; causes GI symptoms and CNS depression.
Daffodil (especially bulb)
TOXICLycorine causes severe vomiting; bulb most concentrated.
Lily of the Valley
TOXICCardiac glycosides. Different from true lilies but still serious.
Autumn Crocus
TOXICContains colchicine; causes multi-organ failure. Not to be confused with the safer spring crocus.
Mistletoe
TOXICBerries most toxic; causes GI upset and potential cardiac effects.
Cyclamen
TOXICRoots most toxic; saponins cause severe GI symptoms and cardiac issues.
Hyacinth (bulb)
TOXICBulbs most concentrated; oxalates and alkaloids cause vomiting and tremors.
Wisteria
TOXICSeeds and pods contain wisterin; vomiting, diarrhoea, and depression.
Rhubarb (leaves)
TOXICLeaves contain oxalic acid; stalk is safe for humans but leaves are toxic to dogs.
Caution - monitor and call vet if symptomatic
Poinsettia
CAUTIONMild irritant; reputation for danger is overstated. Not fatal.
Philodendron
CAUTIONInsoluble calcium oxalates cause oral irritation and drooling.
Pothos (Devil's Ivy)
CAUTIONInsoluble oxalates; oral and GI irritation.
Peace Lily
CAUTIONMisleadingly named; not a true lily. Causes oral irritation, not kidney failure.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
CAUTIONOxalate crystals cause severe burning in mouth and throat.
Aloe Vera
CAUTIONThe gel is safe; the latex layer under the skin causes GI upset.
Kalanchoe
CAUTIONBufodienolides - cardiac glycosides. Common succulent. More serious than often thought.
Iris (bulb)
CAUTIONRhizomes most toxic; skin irritation and GI symptoms.
Black-Eyed Susan Vine
CAUTIONMild irritant. Often flagged; actual toxicity is low.
Tomato plant (green parts)
CAUTIONSolanine in leaves and unripe fruit; ripe tomatoes are safe in moderation.
Lily (Lilium sp.)
CAUTIONMild GI upset in dogs. Contrast with cats where it causes kidney failure.
Garden safety tips for dog owners
- -Identify all plants in your garden before bringing a new dog home.
- -Remove sago palms completely - they are too lethal to risk.
- -Keep bulbs (tulip, daffodil, hyacinth) stored out of reach - dogs dig.
- -Fence off garden beds with known toxic plants (foxglove, rhododendron).
- -Check walking routes for yew, oleander, and autumn crocus before your dog grazes on hedgerows.
- -Photograph any unknown plants your dog chews and use this lookup before assuming it is safe.