House Plants Toxic to Dogs

Your pet is so special to you, as are your plants, so you want to make sure they can coexist in your space without any issues! However, we know that many dogs can be curious and nosy when it comes to plants.  

In this blog, we will touch on the plants you should avoid letting Fido nearby. While almost all toxic plants would have to be ingested to cause harm, some of you may not want to take the risk!  

Before we jump into the specific plants, we want to remind you that even the plants we consider ‘safe’ for your animal to ingest do not mean it is recommended. All plants could still have traces of chemicals on them from the growing process, during transport, or while in store – all before coming into your home. We never recommend animals or humans ingest any of our plants unless it specifically is labeled as edible.   

We also highly suggest doing your research when bringing a plant home. Something labeled as pet-friendly could indicate it’s only safe for a dog or a cat, not always both.  

Plants Safe for Dogs  

Dogs love to chomp, so if you have an adventurous pup, the plants on the following list are okay to have in your space. Now, don’t let your furry friend make a snack of these plants, but if they take a bit, there shouldn’t be any issues.  

Here is a list of some of the common houseplants that are safe to keep around your dogs.  

(Most) Succulents  

Hoya  

Orchids  

Calathea   

Pilea Peperomiodes 

Spider Plant  

Ponytail Palm 

Bird’s Nest Fern 

Bromeliad 

Boston Fern  

Peperomia  

Plants Toxic to Dogs 

If you have a risky dog, you may want to avoid keeping the following plants in and around your home. While most dogs can’t jump onto counters or high shelves like cats, if you are at all concerned about ingestion, we just recommend not keeping the plant in your space. 

While all these plants are considered toxic, most of them would require your dog to ingest a large amount of them to feel the impact. Some dogs could be impacted more depending on their size, so even if you think your dog only took a single bite, further down in this blog there are resources you can follow. 

Here is a list of toxic plants for dogs:  

Aloe Vera 

Poinsettia 

Ivy 

Geraniums 

Tomato - While we don’t grow these at Wild Interiors, we wanted to mention them as it’s a frequent summer plant. Unripe plants are the most dangerous to your dog. 

Pothos 

Dieffenbachia 

Asparagus Fern 

Snake Plant 

ZZ Plant 

Jade Plant 

**Important Notice for Pet Owners: **   

Before adding new plants to your home, please be aware that some houseplants can be harmful to pets. Many common plants contain toxins that can cause reactions ranging from mild irritation to serious health issues.   

**Understanding the Risks of Houseplants to Your Pets**   

Houseplants can bring a touch of nature into our homes, purify the air, and enhance our living spaces. However, for pet owners, it's essential to recognize that not all plants are safe for our furry friends. While we strive to indicate on our website whether a plant is pet-friendly, it's crucial to be aware that many common houseplants contain irritants and toxins that can pose serious health risks to pets.   

The effects of plant toxins on pets can vary widely. Ingestion of certain plants may result in mild symptoms such as drooling or mouth irritation. However, more toxic plants can cause severe reactions, including vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues, and in extreme cases, even death. To ensure the safety of your pets, it's vital to thoroughly research any plant you intend to bring into your home.   

Before introducing a new plant to your living space, take the time to understand the potential risks it may pose to your pet’s health. Here are some steps you can take:   

1. **Consult Reliable Sources: ** Websites like the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center provide comprehensive lists of toxic and non-toxic plants.  

2. **Speak with Experts: ** Reach out to your veterinarian or a knowledgeable plant store staff member for advice.   

3. **Observe Your Pet: ** Monitor your pet's behavior around new plants and seek immediate veterinary attention if you notice any of these signs of distress.   

Continuous vomiting   

Difficulty swallowing   

Drooling/salivation   

Bloody diarrhea   

Tremors   

Poor coordination when walking   

Elevated or irregular heart rate   

Lethargy   

Weak pulse   

Skin irritation   

Conjunctivitis  

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of houseplants without compromising the health and safety of your beloved pets. For more detailed information, you may want to explore the following resources:   

[ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center]   

[Pet Poison Helpline]   

[American Veterinary Medical Association]   

[Merck Veterinary Manual]   

[PETA]   

Remember, a little research can go a long way in preventing potential emergencies and ensuring a safe environment for all members of your household, both two-legged and four-legged. 

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