There are hundreds of poisonous plants that can pose a serious risk to your furry family members, and many of them don’t come with any sort of warning label. As a result, countless pet owners find themselves experiencing scary – and often tragic – incidents involving accidental plant poisonings.
Unfortunately, many people assume that dogs can instinctively recognize toxic plants. But while some dogs might keep their distance from certain plants, their natural curiosity can easily land them in trouble. As a dog owner, your best bet is to learn which common plants aren’t safe for dogs so that you can either keep them away from your dogs or avoid buying them altogether.
We’ve created a guide to plants that are safe for pets, as well as those that aren’t. Because we call the Valley of the Sun our home, we’ve included many of the most common Arizona native plants on our lists. You’ll also find information about non-toxic houseplants, making it safely easier to bring the beauty of nature indoors. Once you’re done reading, you’ll have tails wagging with dog-friendly gardening for you and your four-legged friends.
What Plants are Harmful to Dogs?
Poisonous plants can cause various reactions, ranging from mild nausea to death. Certain species are especially susceptible to specific plants, and reactions can also vary depending on how much of the plant was consumed your pet’s size, and other factors.
Also, it’s not just toxic plants that can affect your pet’s health. Even dog-friendly plants can upset their stomachs. Generally, it’s always a good idea to supervise your dog when they have access to plants, especially if they have a habit of taste-testing everything around them. If you think your pup may have come into contact with a dangerous plant, we recommend contacting your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control hotline at 1(888) 466-4435.
Here is a list of common plants that can be toxic to dogs when ingested, including several species that are frequently found in the Valley:
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- Aloe vera
- Asparagus fern
- Azalea
- Castor bean
- Century plant
- Chinaberry tree
- Cyclamen
- Daisies
- Daffodils
- Delphinium
- Eucalyptus
- Jimson weed
- Lantana
- Mexican Bird of Paradise
- Morning glory
- Oleander
- Oaks
- Poinsettia
- Pothos
- Rhododendron
- Rhubarb
- Sago Palm
- Snake plant
- Tulips
- Wisteria
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The Arizona Humane Society provides an easy-to-print list of harmful plants to dogs so that you can keep it on hand for quick reference.
Tips for Keeping Plants Away from Dogs
So, what should you do if your yard or house is home to plants that are poisonous to pets? Depending on your pet – and your lifestyle – you don’t necessarily need to immediately toss your plants in the trash. Instead, you can take a few smart precautions to prevent your dog from snacking on something that will make them sick.
1. Make sure you always supervise your dog in an area containing dangerous plants.
The easiest way to protect your pup from non-edible plants is to keep a close eye on them when they’re near toxic varieties. Whether they’re playing indoors, soaking up the Arizona sun, or enjoying a walk around the neighborhood, pay attention to the plants they can come into contact with.
2. Use a fence to block off an area of your garden or yard where toxic plants are located.
You don’t have to limit yourself to dog-friendly flowers, shrubs, and trees only, as long as you take the right steps to keep any harmful varieties away from your furry friend. For example, use a large raised bed for flowers that are poisonous to dogs so that they are unable to reach them. Or, set up a fence to create a dog-friendly play space free from anything toxic.
3. If your collection of houseplants includes a toxic plant, place it out of reach of your curious pup.
Many varieties of common houseplants can affect your dog’s health, so don’t be too surprised if you already own a few poisonous types. Move those plants to a spot where your dog can’t access them, such as a bookshelf or in an off-limits room.
4. Before buying new plants, check whether they are non-toxic.
When new plants catch your eye at the local nursery, do a quick online search to determine whether or not they’re dog-safe. If they’re poisonous, you might opt for other plants instead, or you may think more carefully about where you want to plant them.
Are There Any Plants Safe for Dogs?
After you learn about the many plants that are toxic to pets, you might feel like your options are pretty limited. But actually, there are many types of plants that are safe for pets, including dogs, cats, and other furry and feathered friends.
From outside to inside, gardening with pets can be enjoyable, so long as you’re prepared with some basic information. Here’s a useful list of safe plants for dogs, including indoor plants and options for outdoor landscaping and gardening – happy planting!
Pet-Safe Plants: Indoors
Enhance your home’s style with one of these non-toxic houseplants:
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- American rubber plant
- Baby rubber plant
- Bamboo
- Basil
- Boston fern
- Burro’s Tail
- Christmas cactus
- Coleus
- Hoya
- Jade plant
- Orchids
- Spider plants
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Pet-Safe Plants: Outdoors
When it comes to figuring out what plants are safe for dogs, Phoenix landscaping might seem like it would be a challenge. However, there are many dog-safe plants native to Arizona that will fit right into your outdoor space:
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- African violets
- Bamboo palm
- Begonias
- Bottlebrush
- Creosote bush
- Crepe myrtle
- Dwarf royal palm
- Golden bells
- Hollyhock
- Marigolds
- Mesquite trees
- Roses
- Snapdragons
- Yellow palm
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Additionally, many edible plants, such as herbs, fruits, and vegetables, are not harmful to pets. However, keep in mind that some varieties can make dogs ill, so always do your research.
Learn More about Pet-Friendly Living from Canine Country Club & Feline Inn
At Canine Country Club & Feline Inn, we aren’t just pet professionals – we are pet parents, just like you. We want all pets to be happy and healthy, whether they’re spending time at our Phoenix doggie daycare and boarding facility or at home with you. You can always come to us for information about keeping your pet feeling its best.
As a dog mom or dad, you want what’s best for your canine companion. That means that in addition to ensuring their indoor and outdoor spaces are free from harmful plants, you also find ways to keep them safe when you can’t be with them. Whether you are planning a vacation, relocating, or just have long workdays, Canine Country Club & Feline Inn can be your pet’s home away from home. We offer pet daycare in Phoenix and a wide range of options for boarding dogs, cats, and other animals. Our Arizona dog boarding facility is comfortable, welcoming, and affordable, so you can have the peace of mind of knowing that your pets are well-cared-for without going over your budget.
Learn more about tips for a dog-friendly home and get details about our doggie daycare and boarding services when you contact us today!
Featured Image: New Africa/Shutterstock
