37 Common Houseplants that are Toxic to Dogs

Having plants indoors adds charm, but some, like Dieffenbachia, can irritate a dog’s mouth. Some other common house plants toxic to dogs include Philodendron, Pothos, Aloe, Amaryllis, and many more.

If your curious dogs enjoy munching on your houseplants, then you have to worry about whether those plants could be harmful to them. Keep your dogs safe from any toxic plants by placing them in a higher place or buying toxic-free houseplants.

Some common houseplants can be dangerous to dogs, posing potential risks that every pet owner should be aware of. Let’s see what household plants are toxic to dogs.

37 Common Houseplants Toxic to Dogs

Here are 37 common houseplants that can trouble your beloved dogs. Let’s see in detail:

1. Amaryllis

While amaryllis is beloved for its ornamental value, it contains substances that can be toxic to dogs if ingested. The bulb of the Amaryllis plant contains lycorine, which, when consumed, can lead to a range of adverse effects.

Symptoms of amaryllis toxicity in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.

2. Alocasia

With their unique leaves, this plant, commonly referred to as the elephant ear, is visually captivating, often drawing the attention of both humans and pets.

Insoluble calcium oxalate found in various parts of the plant can cause irritation and discomfort in a dog’s mouth, throat, and stomach.

3. Aloe

While aloe is used for its skin-soothing qualities, it can have a different effect on dogs. Consuming aloe may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite, and a change in the color of urine in your pet. However, the inner gel of the aloe leaves is edible.

4. American Holly

American Holly’s bright berries add a festive touch to our surroundings; they contain substances that can be harmful to dogs if ingested.

These berries contain injurious substances that can lead to loss of appetite, vomiting, lack of energy, and diarrhea. Additionally, the leaves of the American Holly also contain substances that can cause mild irritation if consumed.

5. Anthurium

There are many attractive types of Anthurium plants, but sadly, these are toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause high discomfort if ingested.

Dogs that nibble on it and explore this intriguing plant might experience mouth and throat irritation, drooling, and, in some cases, mild digestive upset.

6. Sago Palm

The sago palm is a captivating plant and a beloved choice among landscapers. Generally, dogs aren’t drawn to it, but if your dog enjoys biting or chewing, then this plant could pose a serious risk.

It contains a toxin called cycasin that is recognized for its potential to harm the liver and cause damage. Some symptoms include vomiting, jaundice, bruising, clotting disorders, liver damage, liver failure, and death.

7. Arrowhead

The Arrowhead Plant, also known as Syngonium or Nephthytis, graces homes with its lovely arrow-shaped leaves, which come in deep greens to vibrant pinks.

Although the Arrowhead plant’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable, it’s worth noting that certain parts of the plant contain harmful substances that can be toxic to dogs if they nibble on them.

Dogs that nibble on Arrowhead leaves might experience symptoms like drooling, vomiting, depression, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite.

8. Calla Lily

Calla Lilies showcase stunning beauty; they also fall among the category of plants that can be toxic to dogs. The calla lily, often referred to as the trumpet lily, contains calcium oxalates that cause various discomforts. The symptoms include irritation, vomiting, excessive drooling, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

9. Autumn Crocus

The autumn crocus contains toxins that can be extremely harmful to dogs. The plant contains compounds called colchicine and other substances that can lead to severe symptoms.

Ingesting even a small amount of the Autumn Crocus can result in liver damage, vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.

10. Asparagus Fern

Although its leaves may resemble those of a fern, the Asparagus Fern is not a fern, often called a lace fern. It’s a frequently chosen houseplant. However, asparagus fern is toxic to dogs, causing dermatitis if your pets come into repeated contact with it.

Moreover, this plant produces berries that have the potential to disrupt your pet’s digestive system.

11. Azaleas

The leaves of azaleas contain potent toxins, and even a small consumption can harm your dog. Ingesting azalea leaves can lead to mouth irritation, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.

The consumption of azalea leaves has the potential to be fatal for your dog. If it is consumed by your dog, then quickly get in touch with the vet so they can guide you on what to do next.

12. ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant is part of the Araceae family and contains calcium oxalate crystals. However, plants with these crystals have mild effects on dogs that include intense burning, irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue, and excessive drooling.

13. Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia is also known by another name, which is dumb cane, and it’s really easy to grow in your home. But if you have a playful dog, you need to be careful, as it can cause serious health problems.

The calcium oxalates can lead to significant irritation in the mouth. These are the symptoms: intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue; excessive drooling; mucous membrane irritation; vomiting; and difficulty swallowing.

14. Begonia

Begonia is admired for its vibrant and diverse blooms and is a popular choice for enhancing the aesthetics of gardens and indoor spaces. Apart from their beauty, certain types of begonias can contain substances that can be toxic to pets.

This plant contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause oral irritation in dogs. Symptoms include intense burning, irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and excessive drooling.

15. Jade Plant

The jade plant, also known as Crassula ovata, belongs to the Crassulaceae family. Interestingly, all members of this plant family are toxic to dogs.

Moreover, if your dog ingested it, then the symptoms may include nausea, retching, abdominal pain, weakness, and depression.

16. Dracaena Fragrans

Known by its common name, the cornstalk plant Dracaena fragrans carries a mild level of toxicity for dogs. Saponins present in this plant can pose a toxic threat to dogs.

Ingesting the plant may lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, depression, loss of appetite, and increased drooling.

17. Caladium

Certain species of Caladium can contain toxins that are not for dogs who nibble the plant often. This plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can lead to oral irritation and discomfort for dogs. Other symptoms include pain and swelling.

18. Chinese Evergreen

The Chinese Evergreen, also called Aglaonema, is a common houseplant known for its beautiful colors.

But this plant is toxic for dogs because of insoluble calcium oxalates. Which can cause intense burning, oral irritation, excessive drooling, and vomiting.

19. Daffodil

All parts of the daffodil plant, including the bulbs, contain toxic compounds, which can be harmful if ingested by dogs. Ingestion of daffodil bulbs or plant material can lead to a range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

20. Desert Rose

Originating from eastern Africa, this beautiful succulent belongs to the oleander family. Often used for its ornamental appeal.

But the sap of the Desert Rose contains toxic compounds, which can pose a greater risk to dogs and other pets too. Symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, an irregular heartbeat, and, in extreme cases, death.

21. Golden Pothos

The Golden Pothos is considered mildly toxic to dogs. While ingestion of this plant may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, severe poisoning is relatively rare.

Still, make sure your pets can’t easily reach the plant to avoid any possible problems. Other symptoms include intense burning, oral irritation, and excessive drooling.

22. Eucalyptus

Specific types of eucalyptus may have substances that could be harmful to dogs. The plant generates essential oils that might result in a range of symptoms, starting from minor upset stomachs to more serious problems like increased drooling, sluggishness, and even breathing difficulties.

23. Daisy

Daisies bring such cheerful vibes, but surprisingly, they can be harmful to dogs. These beauties contain a substance called sesquiterpene, which can trigger excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and even unsteady movements.

24. English Ivy

Lovely English Ivy ranks among the top shade-tolerant plants, suitable even for indoors. However, keep this plant away from your dog, as the plant carries a toxin known as saponins. If consumed, it can lead to abdominal discomfort, excessive drooling, diarrhea, and other symptoms in your dog.

25. Gardenia

Gardenia ranks among the world’s most fragrant blossoms. Yet, if you’re growing it indoors, be aware that gardenia has a mild level of toxicity for dogs. Diarrhea, vomiting, hives, and nausea are some symptoms you can see in your pet if ingested.

26. Peace Lily

The Peace Lily brings a peaceful vibe with its beautiful white flowers and lush leaves indoors. Its air-purifying qualities make it a popular choice among gardeners.

But this plant can be harmful to your dog if your pet has a habit of nibbling things.

Peace lily contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can lead to symptoms such as oral irritation, burning in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing.

27. Schefflera

The Schefflera, also known as the umbrella tree, contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can pose a problem for your dog. Ingesting these crystals can cause vomiting, intense burning in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and excessive drooling.

28. Peyote

Belonging to the cactus family, the plant is commonly referred to as peyote. This plant is used as both a medicinal and ornamental plant.

While it serves us well, it falls under the category of toxic houseplants for dogs. This whole plant is toxic for dogs if chewed or ingested, causing intoxication, vomiting, and diarrhea.

29. Brunfelsia

Brunfelsia is often known as the Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow plant due to its fascinating color-changing blooms. It contains a stimulant toxin named brunfelsamidine along with a depressant toxic called hopeanine.

Keep this plant away from your dog, as it is high in toxicity for your pet and can cause paralysis of the nervous system, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, muscle rigidity, and even coma.

30. Geranium

The familiar potted geranium holds the potential to cause vomiting, anorexia, and trigger dermatitis in your dogs, as this plant holds compounds like geraniol and linalool.

31. Cactus

Certain species of cacti can pose a risk to pets if ingested or handled. Their spines and thorns can cause physical harm, while ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The symptoms include inflammation of the skin and injury.

32. Monstera Deliciosa

The Monstera Deliciosa is a favourite among plant lovers, and it is common in many households. However, because it’s an aroid plant, it contains insoluble calcium oxalates that can bother your pet dogs.

If your pets nibble or chew on it, it could make their mouths burn and feel irritated, possibly leading to vomiting.

33. Snake Plant

The well-liked Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, contains saponins, which can be harmful to dogs. Ingestion may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea in pets.

34. Weeping Fig

The weeping fig, also known as Ficus benjamina, is considered harmful to dogs due to its composition, which contains a proteolytic enzyme and psoralen. The symptoms include inflammation of the skin and irritation in the mouth.

35. Iris

The lovely irises have the potential to irritate your dog’s skin and stomach. Coming into contact with them might trigger drooling, while ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and even lethargy. Ensure your dog’s safety by keeping the plant away.

36.Kalanchoe

Belonging to the Crassulaceae family, Kalanchoe is a striking household plant known for its beautiful blooms. However, this plant is toxic for dogs and contains bufadienolides, which are considered toxic and can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

37. Ti plant

The Ti plant is a tropical houseplant known for its low maintenance requirements. However, this plant carries a moderate level of toxicity for dogs.

While the Ti Plant’s lush and vibrant foliage can make your living space more appealing, it’s wise to take precautions to keep it out of your While the Ti Plant’s lush and vibrant foliage can make your living space more appealing, it’s wise to take precautions to keep it out of your pets’ reach. The symptoms may include vomiting, depression, lack of appetite, and drooling.

Do House Plants Make Dogs Sick?

House plants have the potential to make dogs sick if they are toxic or if dogs ingest them. Many common houseplants contain compounds that can be harmful to dogs when consumed.

When dogs nibble on or ingest these plants, you can see a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, and even more severe reactions.

However, not all house plants are toxic to dogs, and the severity of the effects can vary depending on the type of plant and the amount consumed. Some plants may only cause mild digestive upset, while others can lead to more serious health issues.

Research the plants you have and their potential effects on dogs. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant or if you notice any unusual symptoms, then quickly consult a veterinarian for proper guidance and care.

Can Dogs Smell Toxic Plants?

Dogs have super-smelling powers. When they come across plants, their noses can detect chemicals that signal danger. Sometimes, they might even act differently around toxic plants, like avoiding them. So yes, dogs can smell if a plant is toxic or not.

When it comes to puppies, just remember to watch over them and make sure they don’t go near any houseplants that could be bad for them. Their smaller size and developing systems might make them more vulnerable to the effects of toxins.

So, taking extra care to prevent their contact with harmful plants is a smart move to keep them safe.

Non-toxic houseplants for dogs

These non-toxic plants not only give a refreshing and appealing atmosphere but also provide a safe environment for your dogs. Here are some non-toxic houseplants for dogs:

1. Parlor Palm

The Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) is known for its graceful fronds and timeless charm. Its non-toxic qualities make it a great choice for households with dogs, providing greenery without compromising the safety of your pets.

2. Calathea

Calathea is also known as the prayer plant, and it is easy to care for, making it a great choice for busy people. Its leaves show off a mix of red, cream, and green, creating a stunning display that curls up at night.

It likes medium or low light and prefers its soil to dry a bit between waterings. Also, this plant is safe for your dogs. So, if you’re looking for a lovely, toxic-free, and hassle-free addition to your space, Calathea is the way to go.

3. Spider Plant

Spider Plant is a great choice if you have dogs at home. It’s safe for them. This plant is super easy to take care of; it likes light but is not too bright, and it’s okay if you forget to water it sometimes. Just let the soil dry out between watering, and you’ll see it grow up to a foot tall and two feet wide.

4. Christmas Cactus

When it comes to plants that won’t harm your curious dogs, the Christmas Cacti is a great choice.

While it’s best to keep pets from nibbling on them as Christmas cacti might upset their tummies if eaten, these plants are safer than many other festive options. These blooms can add a festive touch to your home without causing problems for your dogs.

Conclusion

While having plants indoors is nice, keeping them safe is a top priority. Learning which plants are dangerous and taking steps to prevent dogs from getting close to them is a big part of being a good pet owner.

Choosing plants that won’t harm dogs, putting plants high up or in places they can’t reach, and giving dogs fun things to do can help keep them safe. If you notice any problems or if your dogs eat a toxic plant, quickly ask a vet for help.