Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Dogs

10 Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Dogs (with Photos)

Indoor plants can brighten up your home, but not all greenery is safe for pets. Many popular houseplants are actually toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Below is a list of common plants to watch out for — including photos to help you identify them.

1. Sago Palm

The sago palm (Cycas revoluta) is extremely toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the seeds. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to vomiting, seizures, liver failure, and even death.

2. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)

This popular decorative plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause severe mouth pain, drooling, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. Dogs that chew on this plant often paw at their mouth and may vomit.

3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Snake plants are known for their resilience, but they contain saponins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in dogs. It’s best kept out of reach or avoided in pet homes altogether.

4. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is a trendy houseplant that contains oxalates similar to Dieffenbachia. Ingestion can irritate the mouth and stomach, causing drooling, vomiting, and discomfort.

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe may be great for skin, but it’s not safe for dogs. Compounds like saponins and anthraquinones in the plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors if eaten.

6. Philodendron

Like many aroids, philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and digestive tract. Symptoms may include excessive drooling and swelling of the mouth or throat.

7. Peace Lily

Peace lilies aren’t true lilies, but they’re still toxic to dogs. Ingesting any part of the plant may cause oral irritation, vomiting, and trouble swallowing.

8. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

Another popular trailing plant, pothos is toxic due to calcium oxalates. Chewing on the leaves can cause pain, swelling, and vomiting in dogs.

9. Caladium

Caladium leaves are beautiful but toxic. They contain insoluble calcium oxalates that cause mouth and throat irritation, intense burning, and excessive drooling in dogs.

10. Oleander

Oleander is extremely toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause heart abnormalities, digestive distress, tremors, and even death.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Toxic Plant

If you suspect your dog has chewed or eaten any of these plants, call your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Symptoms can escalate quickly, and prompt care can save lives.

Make Your Home Pet-Safe

Before bringing a new plant into your home, research its safety with pets. You can also check the ASPCA Toxic Plants List.

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet if you're concerned about your dog’s health or exposure to toxins.

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