Everyone wishes they could have a dog’s life – no worries or stress about things like money or jobs. Instead, you just get to sit around all day in the yard sleeping and wait for pets and food. Actually – that does sound like it’d get pretty boring pretty fast, doesn’t it? It’s no wonder then that our canine companions often take to the habit of snacking on plants. Almost 80% of dogs eat plants with approximately 68% of them doing so on a weekly basis. Yikes!

Unfortunately, this habit can be quite harmful in the wrong sort of environment – it’s a known fact that there isn’t a breed of dog out there that can properly distinguish between toxic and nontoxic plants. So, it’s up to us as pet owners to protect our faithful furry friends from any plants that might harm their bellies! 

The Sickly Seven: Plants to Avoid

The list of plants that can make a dog sick is extensive. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists 417 toxic plants in the United States alone. While many of these are exotic, Southern California is home to several native plants that can be harmful to dogs. Here are seven common culprits to watch out for:

  1. Sago Palm. The seeds, nuts, and leaves contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and even death in dogs.
  2. Oleander. Every part of the oleander plant is toxic. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe reactions.
  3. Castor Bean. The seeds of this plant contain ricin, a deadly toxin. Ingesting it can lead to vomiting, dehydration, and in severe cases, organ failure.
  4. Yew. Yew plants contain taxine alkaloids, which can cause breathing difficulties, trembling, and heart failure. Thankfully, these plants aren’t particularly appetizing to dogs.
  5. Daffodil. While attractive and fragrant, daffodils can cause abdominal pain, drooling, diarrhea, and even heart problems in dogs.
  6. Hydrangea. Similarly, hydrangeas are appealing but problematic, causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
  7. Lily. Certain types of lilies, such as Easter lilies, are extremely toxic to cats and can also cause serious kidney damage to dogs if ingested.

The Sunny Side: Safe and Enjoyable Alternatives

There is a silver lining to this tail. A recent survey in New Zealand found that 60% of dog owners are making changes to their gardens to keep their pets safe. This trend has led to the rise of ‘sensory gardens’ for dogs—areas filled with safe plants and textures that stimulate a dog’s senses. Sensory gardens not only benefit canine well-being but also often include plants that humans enjoy, too. Here are some safe and beneficial plants to consider:

  • Basil
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Lavender
  • Thyme
  • Mint
  • Lemon Balm
  • Wheatgrass

By being mindful of the plants in your garden, you can create a safe, engaging environment for your dog. Regularly vetting your yard for harmful plants and replacing them with safe alternatives is a simple yet effective way to keep your furry friend healthy and happy and avoid those unwanted (and often pricey) visits to the vet.

Creating a dog-safe yard doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or variety in your garden. With a bit of planning and the right plants, you can cultivate a space where both you and your dog can enjoy spending time. After all, a happy dog makes for a happy home!

Got questions about what are the safest plants for dogs? Or maybe you just want to show off some pictures of your furry friend? Either way, shoot us a message at lastormwater@lacity.org.