With summer on the way, many of us are planning to get outside and give our gardens some much needed TLC.
Whether you’re planning a garden fit for a flower show or you’re just bringing home a few fresh bedding plants, it’s important to consider how your garden choices may affect your furry friend. Dogs like to explore their surroundings using their nose and mouth, so it’s very easy for them to come into contact with a plant that’s harmful to them both in the home and outdoors.
Many popular UK flowers, though beautiful to look at, can be toxic to dogs if they ingested. Knowing which blooms pose a danger to your pet can help prevent any emergency vet visits this year.
Flowers That Are Toxic to Dogs
Here are some of the most common flowers and plants that can be harmful to your four-legged friend.
Please note, this is not a full list of all poisonous plants that can be found here in the UK. If you’re unsure of a plant or flower, contact your vet before adding it to your garden.
Tulips and Daffodils
Many common bulbs are toxic to dogs, especially tulips and daffodils. They can cause a number of symptoms if ingested, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. If your dog likes to dig up your garden, then bulbs are best avoided, and it’s worth making sure you remove any bulbs that might already be in your garden too.
Bluebells
Who doesn’t love the sight of a carpet of bluebells? Unfortunately, though, like foxgloves, their beauty hides that they are deadly to our four-legged friends. If any part of the plant is consumed, they can cause stomach upset and, in large quantities, may be fatal. While you may be tempted to go for a walk in springtime to see newly flowered bluebells, it’s a good idea to leave your dog at home if you do.
Rhododendrons and azaleas
Rhododendrons and azaleas may look beautiful when in full summer bloom, but for your four-legged friend, they unfortunately contain a neurotoxin which can cause vomiting and breathing problems. Even eating only, a tiny amount can cause your dog to become very sick and sometimes, can be fatal. Smaller dogs and puppies are often more seriously affected than larger dogs, but it’s still not worth the risk.
Alliums
You probably already know that onions and garlic are toxic to dogs, but so are the plants on which they grow. If you want to use onions and garlic in your cooking, it’s best to skip growing your own and stick to buying them from your local supermarket instead.
Foxgloves
As we mentioned earlier, foxgloves are another flower that are tempting to add to your garden, especially as they are loved by bees. But these flowers can be deadly for your pet as they can cause heart problems if ingested. It’s also worth remembering that foxgloves also grow in woodlands, so if you’re taking your dog for a ramble this summer, keep them on their lead.
Lilies
While there are a number of varieties of lilies that grow in the UK, all of them should be avoided as even the pollen can cause your dog to become sick. The most common symptoms dogs experience after coming into contact with Lily are vomiting, diarrhoea, and a lack of appetite. This is a flower best kept to bouquets indoors and out of your dog’s reach.
Wisteria
While wisteria is a climbing vine, this is a plant that can also poses a threat to your pet as it seeds pods contain toxins which again can be fatal if eaten. Unlike many other poisonous plants and flowers, your dog won’t show any immediate symptoms after eating, so they may continue to ingest flowers or seed pods before you are able to take action.
Safe Non-Toxic Alternatives
Thankfully, there are plenty of pet-safe flowers you can add to your garden:
Roses
Timelessly beautifully, roses are also a great option for your garden as they are considered one of the safest flowers for pets. They also come in a range of colours and varieties, meaning there’s a perfect rose bush, tree, or plant for every garden. Just remember to plant them somewhere out of reach of your dog so they don’t accidentally cut themselves on their thorns.
Garden Marigolds
Some varieties of marigolds can be toxic to pets, but garden marigolds are typically a safer, non-toxic option to consider. When they bloom, they’ll give your garden a lovely pop of golden orange and can grow in dry patches of soil.
Sunflowers
Loved by Van Gogh, sunflowers are a fantastic way to brighten up your garden and – what’s more – the seeds can be used in your home cooking too. If you have children, you can also have a fun competition to see who can grow the tallest sunflower.
Zinnias
These flowers are prolific in summer and are safe for furry friends to be around. They are a staple in building out a dog-friendly garden full of non-toxic blooms.
Tips for a Dog-Safe Garden
Know what you plant: Always check with your vet if you’re unsure.
Elevate indoor flowers: It’s not just outdoor plants you need to keep in mind when you have curious paws and sniffing noses in your home. Keep flower bouquets out of reach, especially if they contain any potentially harmful flowers and make sure you dispose of them safely and outside so your dog can’t get them out of the bin.
Supervise outdoor time: Watch your dog when they’re outside and around new plants. If you’re planning on outdoor walks in your local area or woods, make sure your pet stays on their lead.
Train your dog to ignore plants: Teaching your dog to ignore plants or flowers in general can prevent any incidents and also helps your wallet as you won’t need to keep buying new plants. Don’t forget your favourite Pointer treats for any training activities.
Remember, if you think your dog has eaten a toxic plant, contact your vet straight away. While many dogs will show symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea sometimes, symptoms may not always show straight away. When it comes to possible poisoning, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Having a dog doesn’t mean having to sacrifice a beautiful garden. By educating yourself on toxic flowers and choosing pet-friendly alternatives instead, you can still create a space that’s your dream garden while keeping it a safe space for your dog.
We’d love to see your dog-friendly gardens! Share your pictures with us on Instagram or Facebook. For more insights into pet care, visit our blog.
