Types of Plants Poisonous to Dogs
No matter how well dogs are watched or fed, there is always a chance of them ingesting some type of poisonous plant that can make them ill or even kill them. There are many types of plants that are poisonous to dogs, but a little knowledge about some of the more common plants will allow an owner to protect their beloved pet from the dangers that may exist in their home, yard, and where they walk their dogs.
There are a number of common house and yard plants that dog owners should either refrain from having or place in a location where they are not available to the dog. Castor Bean, Daffodils, Dieffenbachia, Elephant Ear, Hyacinth, Narcissus, Oleander, Philodendron, Rosary Pea, Corn Plants, Dracaena (several varieties), and Asparagus Ferns are some of the more commonly seen varieties. In the yard, many bulbs are poisonous to dogs, including the bulbs of the plants previously listed as well as Crocus, Gladiolas, Iris, several varieties of lilies, and Tulips.
While flowering plants are pretty to look at, some of them are dangerous to dogs as well. Hydrangeas, Crocus, Poinsettias, Cyclamen, and Kalanchoe are some of the common flowers that grow in many yards. Morning Glory, Nightshade, and Foxglove are just as toxic to dogs as they are to humans, and in even lower amounts.
Many home gardeners don't realize that the plants they are growing for their own consumption can be poisonous to dogs. Two examples of common plants that can cause illness or worse are onion and tomatoes. Many shrubs are also poisonous to canines. Oleanders, mentioned above, are toxic but the list also includes some forms of bamboo, Rhododendrons, Sago Palm, Holly, Jerusalem Cherry, and Yucca. Even the household burn remedy, Aloe Vera, can be poisonous to dogs if consumed.
Some trees and the nuts, berries, and seeds that fall from them can be dangerous as well. Buckeye, Chinaberry, Avocado, Yew, Macadamia Nut, Scheffelera, and even Apple, Cherry, and Apricot can cause adverse effects in dogs if consumed.
Note that the pants listed here are not all inclusive by any means. The ASPCA website, cited below, has compiled a list over 6000 different plants that are poisonous to dogs.
The best way to avoid any problems is, obviously, to prevent exposing the dog to these plants. When considering new landscaping or household plants, carefully check to see if they have any potential adverse effects on pets. Many times the companies providing the plants can supply this information, but if not, a check of this list and others will be helpful. If you make the decision to have plants that are dangerous, then the simple method of preventing the dog from accessing that area will help avoid any problems. The proper use of fences and other restrictions will allow a pet owner to enjoy the variety of vegetation while still keeping their animals safe. In addition, the addition of bran to a dog's diet, or pet foods rich in fiber, can help prevent the dog from chewing on plants.
