Friend or foe: These plants are dangerous for dogs

We all know dogs love to sniff, chew, and roll around at home and outdoors – it’s up to you to keep your furry friend safe. Poisonous plants are everywhere – do you know which plants to keep your dog away from? Don't worry, this guide will tell you which plants to avoid, how to recognise poisoning, and what to do in an emergency.

If in doubt, ask which plants are safe for dogs at the garden centre or plant shop. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on your four-legged friends when you take them to the woods, lakes or fields. Puppies are especially curious, so make sure they don’t chomp on something that could hurt them!

Which plants are dangerous for dogs?

At home

Ideally, avoid keeping any plants that are poisonous to pets in your home. If you are an avid plant parent and have some already, keep them well out of reach. Leaves, flowers and sap can all be poisonous to pets.

A non-exhaustive list of plants that are harmful to dogs: rubber trees, ivy, amaryllis, lilies, agave plants, Monsteras, geraniums, hydrangea, fiddle leaf fig, philodendron, ZZ plants, aloe vera, bird of paradise, sago palms, orchids, and poinsettias.

In the garden

Lily of the valley can make your dog nauseous, dizzy, or vomit. Rhododendron leaves and flowers are highly toxic to dogs and can cause cramps, diarrhoea, and a racing pulse. Other harmful garden plants include daffodils, tulips, oleander, hyacinths, and boxwood.

In the Great Outdoors

Be careful when you take your pet for nature walks in the spring and summer, when plants are budding and flowers are blooming. Be extra vigilant around wild herbs and flowers – blossoms are often toxic for dogs.

Try to avoid at least these four plants when taking your dog for a stroll or letting them run free: lily of the valley, ivy, tulips and box trees. Other wild plants that are dangerous for dogs include autumn crocus, mushrooms, onion and garlic plants, tansy, belladonna, and bittersweet nightshade.

How do I know if my dog has been poisoned?

Typical symptoms include restlessness, low energy, heavy salivation, shivering, cramps, vomiting or diarrhoea, trembling, breathing difficulties and disorientation. If your dog is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms and seems generally unwell, it is likely due to a poisonous plant. Don’t panic!

What do I do next?

✓ Consult a vet

✓ Stay calm

✓ Administer charcoal tablets

Consult a vet immediately. If possible, save a sample of the plant your pup ate for the vet to inspect. It is important to stay calm, especially if your dog is having trouble breathing or has a racing pulse – be gentle and reassure your poorly pet.

Charcoal tablets can save lives! It is a great idea to keep them at home, in your car or bag. Charcoal tablets absorb anything toxic your pet has ingested and stop the poison from entering the bloodstream. They act as first aid for your pet – the faster the charcoal tablets are administered, the greater the effect. However, it is only a temporary aid and cannot replace treatment at the vet.

How do I get veterinary advice quickly?

In an emergency, a video consultation with a vet is the fastest way to get help, any time of day or night. Our new Pet Health Insurance includes unlimited video consultations with experienced veterinarians. This way, you have reliable help at your side so that your dog can have a speedy recovery.

Don’t panic – now you know what type of plants might harm your furry friend, you can easily protect them, and you know what to do in an emergency.

What else can I do to take care of my dog?

With pet health insurance, you make sure your darling receives the best medical care and go easy on your wallet at the same time. We offer three different levels of coverage that all include up to 100% reimbursement, up to €5.000 per year for operations, and 24/7 video consultations as well as in-person visits. This way, your dog is always well taken care of!

Learn more about pet health insurance and get your quote here: