Common Plants: List Of Toxic Plants That Could Harm Your Dog

It’s scary to know that some common plants are toxic to our dogs. Yet, knowing what can put your dog at risk can prevent accidents. Here are some plants you may have lying around that could be harmful to your dog.

1. Apple Trees

The horror, the horror. Of the common plants, apple trees are found everywhere. Yes, apple trees from the leaves to the stems are toxic to dogs. The active poison amygdalin releases when seeds or leaves are consumed. Watch your dog closely in the fall, since leaves are everywhere and dead leaves are more concentrated with amygdalin.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is quite popular among common plants, often found in gardens and backyards of home remedy enthusiasts. Great for burns and cuts this green beauty can cause digestive problems for your dog. Aloe Vera when ingested will not cause fatality. However, it will cause diarrhea, vomiting, changes in moods and urine color. To keep your dog safe, avoid putting your aloe plant in low areas that they can reach. They may avoid this prickly plant all together, but it’s better to stay on the side of caution.

3. Daffodils

These pretty bulbs mark the start of spring, but can pose great threat to your pooch. The bulbs when consumed can cause a variety of health issues. The poisonous alkaloids can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. The poison works quick so please rush your dog to the vet if you suspect they’ve eaten any. All varieties of daffodils are dangerous, particularly the Narcissus species.

4. Lilies

While varieties of lilies have been known to poison cats, they are also toxic to dogs. Lily tubers, the underground part of the stem, is fatal for dogs. The toxin colchicine alkaloids can cause organ failure, cardiac imbalance,  and intestinal upset within hours of consumption. The most common varieties such as lily of the valley, water and tiger lilies are all poisonous. So the next time you buy a nice bouquet for the dining room table, keep a close eye on your dog.

5. Hydrangea Shrubs

Most gardeners will have a hydrangea shrub or two. So if you have a few of these gorgeous shrubs on your property be sure your dog doesn’t ingest any buds and leaves. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal problems. The toxin, cyanogenic glycosides, helps the plant ward of insects and bacteria. It won’t kill your dog, but if they eat too much it can lead to irreversible damage to your dogs intestinal tracts.

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6. Cherry Blossoms

The season for Cherry Blossoms is spring, at about the end of March to April. Cherry blossom trees are commonly found in Japan but the beautiful trees are now trending in American backyards. The stems, leaves, and blossoms are all poisonous to your dog. So while they are beautiful to look at, rake them up if you have an outside dog.

Dogs don’t go seeking plant life for consumption, but they have been known to get into a plant or two. So you can’t be too careful when it comes to your dog. If you think your dog has eaten something poisonous, don’t wait, take them to the vet. For further information on poisonous and toxic plants visit the ASPCA site.