These are the most toxic plants for dogs that are blooming now, according to this pet expert
Key Points:
- Plants that are toxic to dogs come in all shapes and sizes and many fly under the radar of pet owners, especially in the autumn months when most plants shed their foliage
- Common decorative plants like Hydrangeas contain toxins that can cause vomiting, lethargy, and even respiratory problems in dogs if ingested
- By familiarising yourself with the symptoms of plant poisoning, you could save your dog’s life
There’s nothing like a nice walk with your dog on a crisp, autumn day. Walking your dog is a great way to get exercise, and for them, it’s an adventure of smells and new things to discover. For dogs, this tends to be one of their favourite times of the day as they get to be with their owner and explore all of the plants and animals outside.
“Although it’s good to let dogs explore with their noses, because it burns calories and gives them enrichment, there are certain plants that you should look out for on your walks and in your gardens,” warns Andrew Leal, Co-Founder and CEO of pet insurance company Waggel. “While autumn brings beautiful foliage, some of these plants could pose serious health risks for your dog”.
Waggel’s team of experts have seen claims of all kinds and are well-versed in dealing with dogs who get into things they shouldn’t. They’re here to offer their advice on what plants dogs should avoid this Autumn.
Seven Autumn Plants That Are Toxic to Dogs
- Chrysanthemums (Mums)
Chrysanthemums, or ‘mums’ are a popular flower that blooms in autumn, often seen in gardens and outdoor displays. However, this vibrant plant contains pyrethrins and lactone, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, and lack of coordination in dogs. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to respiratory failure.
“Pet owners should avoid placing mums in areas accessible to their dogs, especially where their pets roam freely, like in back gardens”, warns Leal.
- Oak Trees (Acorns)
Oak trees shed acorns during the autumn months, and while they may seem harmless, acorns contain tannins, which are toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms of acorn poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, kidney damage can occur.
“To prevent accidental ingestion, steer clear of areas heavily littered with acorns on your walks and sweep up fallen debris in your garden regularly as squirrels often drop acorns in gardens, even if there isn’t an oak tree nearby”, advises Leal.
- Yew
The yew plant is a popular evergreen that retains its lush green colour throughout the colder months, but it is highly toxic to dogs. Every part of the plant, including its bright red berries, contains taxines, which can cause heart problems, difficulty breathing, and sudden death.
“If you move to a home that has a yew plant in the garden, consider replacing it with a safer alternative and keep an eye out for these plants when you’re on your walk, steering your dog away from them as you pass,” says Leal.
- Autumn Crocus
The autumn crocus, often confused with the harmless spring crocus, blooms in the autumn and poses a significant threat to dogs. This plant contains colchicine, a substance that can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, and in severe cases, organ failure. Even a small amount can be fatal, so it is critical to keep dogs away from this plant entirely.
- Hydrangeas
A garden favourite, hydrangeas produce stunning flowers in the autumn but are dangerous for dogs. The plant’s flowers and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, and in more severe cases, respiratory distress. To prevent any mishaps, pet owners should ensure their dogs cannot access hydrangea plants or fallen leaves.
- Black Walnut Trees
The black walnut tree drops its large nuts in autumn, and though the nuts themselves aren’t the primary threat, they decay at a rapid rate and the mould that grows on them can be toxic to dogs. Mouldy black walnuts contain tremorgenic mycotoxins, which can cause seizures and neurological issues.
“Dog owners should regularly clear away any fallen black walnuts from their gardens and avoid walking their pets in areas where these trees are common,” says Leal. “Although these trees are nice to look at in autumn, it’s best to enjoy them from a distance if you’re with your dog”.
- Amaryllis
Typically planted in the autumn for winter blooms, the amaryllis bulb is a lesser-known danger for dogs. It contains lycorine, which can cause vomiting, drooling, and abdominal pain. In more severe cases, tremors and low blood pressure may occur. Keep amaryllis bulbs out of reach, especially during planting season.
Leal’s Tips for Preventing Accidental Poisoning
- Regularly inspect your front and back gardens for fallen foliage that belongs to any of these toxic plants, especially fruits and nuts that may have been carried over by squirrels.
- Research all new plants you want to add to your garden to make sure they are dog-friendly.
- Familiarise yourself with the symptoms of plant poisoning so that you can take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if they begin to show.
“Always supervise your dogs when they’re outdoors, and if you see them pick something up and start to chew on it, take it out of their mouth as quickly as possible”, urges Leal.
Andrew Leal, co-founder and CEO of Waggel, comments:
“Awareness during the autumn months is key to avoiding any accidental ingestion of toxic plants. As the seasons change, so do the hidden risks in our gardens and outdoor spaces. Many beautiful autumn plants can be deceptively dangerous for dogs, so stay informed and take preventative measures.
“Use the internet to your advantage and memorise what the toxic plants on this list look like. Also, take the time to research different walking paths that are not as overgrown to reduce the risk of you and your dog running into these hazardous plants. By taking these simple steps, your dog should be safe from inadvertently eating something they shouldn’t, giving you stress and hefty vet bills.”d autumn walks on Petplan