Some plants and flowers can be toxic to dogs, causing symptoms ranging from mild irritation to life-threatening illness.
Exposure to certain plants can lead to:
- Swelling of the mouth
- Vomiting
- Tremors or loss of coordination
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- In severe cases, death
However, this doesn't mean you should avoid plants completely. Many dog-safe plants can still be used to decorate your home or given as gifts.
Before bringing home a new houseplant or flower arrangement, it is important to confirm that it is non-toxic and safe for dogs.
Key takeaways
- Many flowers and houseplants are safe for dogs and can be used in pet-friendly homes.
- Common plants that are safe for dogs include roses, sunflowers, spider plants, and herbs like basil and rosemary.
- Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if consumed.
- The safest approach is to avoid toxic plants altogether and choose animal-safe alternatives in your home.
Flowers safe for dogs
Many flowers are considered non-toxic and safe for dogs, making them great options for pet-friendly homes.
Some common flowers that are safe for dogs include:
- Alstroemeria
- Asters
- Gerber Daisies
- Orchids
- Roses
- Snapdragons
- static
- Sunflowers
Although these flowers are generally safe, it is always best to prevent your dog from chewing plants, as ingesting any plant matter can cause a mild stomach upset.
Dog-Safe Houseplants
Many houseplants are safe for dogs and can be used to create a pet-friendly home.
Here are some common dog-safe plants, listed by type:
Ferns
Herbs
- Basil
- Coriander
- Dill
- Lemon balm
- Rosemary
- Wise
Perennial plants
- african violet
- Aluminum Factory (also known as the Watermelon Factory)
- Bamboo
- Friendship plant
- Spider plant (also called spider ivy)
- Swedish ivy
Succulents
- Blue Echeveria (wax rosette, painted lady)
- Christmas cactus
- Haworthia
- Hens and chicks
Palm trees
- Areca palm
- Dwarf palm
- Parlor palm (also known as bamboo palm, lucky palm)
- Lady palm
Even with pet-safe plants, it's best to discourage chewing, as eating any plant can still cause mild digestive upset.
Why do dogs eat plants and flowers?
Dogs often eat plants and flowers out of curiosity, especially when exploring new environments.
Young dogs, in particular, tend to investigate objects by chewing or tasting them, which can lead to accidental plant ingestion.
“Exposure of dogs and cats to household plants is common, especially among young animals who tend to be very curious. Some plants are extremely toxic to our pets,” says Dr. David Dorman, DVM and professor of toxicology at NC State University of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Dorman says, “It's important to remember that your pet cannot distinguish between edible plants and dangerous ones. The key to preventing poisoning in your pets is to avoid exposure.”
What to do if you suspect your dog has eaten a poisonous plant or flower
If you think your dog has eaten a poisonous plant, treat it as a potential emergency and act immediately.
Plants toxic to dogs can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild digestive upset to serious, life-threatening complications.
If your dog has ingested a toxic plant or shows signs of poisoning, contact one of the following people immediately:
Keep in mind that acting quickly can significantly improve your dog's results.
To prevent future incidents, always research plants before bringing them into your home And choose only pet-safe options.
FAQs About Dog-Safe Plants and Flowers
Can dogs eat plants labeled “safe”?
Even harmless plants should not be eaten regularly.
Although non-toxic plants do not cause poisoning, they can still cause mild digestive upsets like vomiting or diarrhea if consumed in large quantities.
How can I make my houseplants safe for my dog?
The best way to keep your dog safe is to eliminate toxic plants and choose pet-safe alternatives.
You can also supervise your dog, keep plants out of reach, and redirect his chewing behavior with safe toys.
