Gardening is a beloved pastime for many, providing a source of relaxation and beauty. However, as dog owners, it's essential to be aware of the potential dangers that some common garden plants can pose to our furry friends.

 Many plants that are popular in gardens and landscapes can be toxic to dogs, leading to a range of symptoms from mild gastrointestinal upset to more severe reactions. Let's explore some of the most common garden plants that are toxic to dogs when ingested, and the effects they can have.

The Sago Palm and other Cycad species are popular ornamental garden plants that are highly toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant, including the seeds, leaves, and roots, contain a toxin called cycasin that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and even death in dogs if ingested. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a dog has ingested any part of a Cycad Palm.

Azaleas are a common garden shrub known for their vibrant flowers, but they are also highly toxic to dogs. Azaleas contain variable amounts of grayanotoxins throughout all parts of the plant, including the stem, leaves, flower and even the nectar. Ingesting any part of the Azalea plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, and even cardiovascular collapse. It is essential to keep Azalea plants out of reach of dogs to prevent accidental ingestion.

Autumn Crocus, also known as Meadow Saffron, is part of the Lilaceae family (see no 5.) and as their name suggests, flower in Autumn. While beautiful to look at, Autumn Crocus is highly toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, organ damage, and respiratory failure. Ingestion of even a small amount of the plant can be life-threatening to dogs. By contrast Spring crocus plants are part of the Iridaceae family. Their ingestion can cause general gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. These should not be mistaken for the more deadly Autumn Crocus, which contains a toxic alkaloid called colchicine. All parts of the Autumn Crocus are poisonous.

Oleander is a popular flowering shrub found in many gardens, but it is also one of the most toxic plants to dogs and other animals. All parts of the Oleander plant, including the flowers, leaves, and sap, contain cardiac glycosides that can cause symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, irregular heartbeats, and even death. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if a dog has ingested Oleander.

Lilies are a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements, but many species of lilies, including Easter lilies, Tiger lilies, and Daylilies, are toxic to dogs. Ingestion of any part of a lily plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, kidney failure, and death. Even a small nibble on a lily leaf or petal can have serious consequences for dogs.

Castor Bean is a common ornamental plant that is highly toxic to dogs due to the presence of ricin, a potent toxin. Ingestion of Castor Bean seeds can lead to symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, dehydration, tremors, seizures, and organ failure. Prompt veterinary treatment is essential if a dog has ingested any part of the Castor Bean plant.



While gardening is a rewarding and therapeutic activity, it is crucial as dog owners to be aware of the potential dangers posed by toxic plants commonly found in gardens. By familiarizing yourself with the plants that are toxic to dogs and taking preventive measures to keep these plants out of reach, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your canine companion. 

As always, in the case of accidental ingestion, please seek immediate veterinary advice either through The Animal Poisons Hotline or your local veterinarian. Whilst there is no specific antidote for most plant poisonings,  urgent veterinary attention can be lifesaving. Timely veterinary assessment will allow your veterinarian to consider therapies that reduce toxin absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. The provision of supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids, stomach protectants, liver protectants and anti-seizure medications may be required.