13 Toxic Houseplants for Dogs (and What You Can Do)

Dogs are naturally curious. Much like toddlers, they explore the world nose-first—including your lush green houseplants. But many popular indoor plants pose real danger: from stomach upset to life-threatening organ damage. Inspired by training principles from Dogs Inc, where guide dogs are taught not to nibble foliage, this enhanced guide covers 13 common toxic plants, prevention measures, and emergency action plans for pet owners.

Why Are Some Houseplants Toxic to Dogs?

Plants produce defensive chemicals—such as calcium oxalate crystals and toxic alkaloids—that can harm pets. Even a small nibble may cause severe symptoms like vomiting, drooling, swelling, or organ damage. Effects vary depending on species, dose, and your dog’s size or sensitivity. Long-term exposure may lead to chronic illness.

13 Common Toxic Houseplants

Here are frequently seen houseplants that pose the greatest risk to dogs:

1. Aloe Vera – Causes vomiting, lethargy, and urine changes.

2. Philodendron – Leaves contain calcium oxalate; oral irritation, swelling, and pain.

3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – Ingestion leads to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

4. Pothos / Devil’s Ivy – Calcium oxalates faze the mouth, throat, and stomach.

5. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) – Causes burning, drooling, severe swelling.

6. ZZ Plant – Chewing induces gastrointestinal upset.

7. Dracaena (Dragon Tree) – Symptoms include vomiting, depression, appetite loss.

8. English Ivy – Leads to abdominal pain and diarrhea.

9. Peace Lily – Mouth and throat irritation from calcium oxalates.

10. Chinese Evergreen – Similar to pothos, causes oral irritation.

11. Desert Rose – Sap causes drooling and mouth blistering.

12. Asparagus Fern – Especially harmful if berries ingested—vomiting & diarrhea.

13. Sago Palm – One of the deadliest; seeds can cause liver failure and death. 

    Signs of Plant Toxicity in Dogs

    Watch out for these symptoms, which may develop within minutes to hours:

    • Vomiting or diarrhea

    • Excessive drooling

    • Swollen lips, tongue, or mouth

    • Loss of appetite, lethargy

    • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

    • Skin irritation near mouth or paws

    Immediate veterinary care is vital—especially if sago palm exposure is suspected. 

    How to Keep Your Pup Safe

    1. Train a Reliable “Leave It”

    A strong cue prevents your dog from sampling dangerous plants—crucial for curious pups.

    2. Elevate or Restrict Access

    Use hanging baskets or place plants out of reach. Consider closed rooms or gated areas.

    3. Supervise Indoors

    Keep an eye on pets around plants and consider crate training when unsupervised.

    4. Avoid DIY Deterrents

    Home remedies like lemon juice sprays may damage plants and rarely work long term.

    5. Offer Pet-Safe Plant Options

    Swap toxic species for safe alternatives—like spider plants, Boston ferns, or parlor palms. These are listed as pet-friendly by the ASPCA.

What to Do in an Emergency

If ingestion occurs:

1. Stay calm and remove your dog from the plant.

2. Gently remove any plant matter from mouth if safe.

3. Take a photo or cut a sample for identification.

4. Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888‑426‑4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (800‑213‑6680) immediately. Chewy reports ASPCA plant poison calls at 8% of all cases.

Why Awareness Matters

Not all dogs react the same—even small exposures can have big consequences. Vet experts like those at PetMD stress that while some plants cause mild upset, others can result in life-threatening organ failure.

The good news? Prevention through education and plant selection is your best defense.

Protect Pets and Support Shelter Causes

Want to do more for pets beyond your home? Check out our guide on donating pet supplies to shelters. Your contribution can save dogs from danger—from toxic plants to homelessness.

Safe and Stylish Plant Choices for Pet Homes

Prefer plants but want safety? Consider these low-risk options:

• Orchids (e.g., Phalaenopsis): non-toxic, elegant, durable.

• Spider Plants, Parlor Palms, Boston Ferns: ASPCA-approved and dog-safe.

Keep plant soils free of pesticides or fertilizers to reduce even non-toxic hazards.

✅ Takeaway