Landscaping: Common Plants Toxic to Dogs

Common Plants Toxic to Dogs

It pays to treat it as such and to monitor what plants your dog puts into its mouth. Your dog’s health is important. Before you plan your next landscaping project, consider this: many common plants shrubs and trees found in local garden center are toxic to dogs.

A partial list includes:  (bulbs) daffodil/narcissus, day lily, hyacinth, iris, tulip, (plants/shrubs) aloe, asparagus fern, azalea, begonia, burning bush, chrysanthemum, clematis, daisy, English ivy, holly, hosta (plantain), hydrangea, lace fern, myrtle/periwinkle, peony, rhododendron, yucca, (vegetables) garlic and onion plant (Allium), tomato plant, (trees) apple, cherry, peach, plum, red maple.

Toxicity depends on the age of the dog and the part of the plant/shrub/tree eaten.  Symptoms include mild tummy ache, diarrhea, swelling, rapid heart rate, breathing difficulty, pupil dilation, coma. Ingesting toxic substances can be fatal in certain instances.

A complete list of toxic and non-toxic plants can be found on the ASPCA website.  If you suspect plant/shrub poisoning, or if your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian or emergency animal clinic immediately.
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Bonnie Sweebe is a dog lover, dog owner, dog advocate, and rescue and service dog volunteer. She is also the owner of WelcomePup.com, an online dog gift delivery company.