science
ASPCA Lists Eight Garden Plants Toxic to Dogs
The ASPCA Poison Control fielded more than 12,900 plant-exposure calls involving dogs in 2025. Veterinary toxicologists identified azaleas, sago palms, foxgloves, bluebells, crocuses, yew, hydrangeas and oleander as plants that can cause illness or death.
May 28, 7:02 PM·1m read1 source
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The ASPCA Poison Control received more than 12,900 calls about dogs exposed to toxic plants in 2025. Veterinary staff listed eight common garden species that owners should avoid planting or keep pets away from. Azaleas ranked as the most frequent toxic-plant exposure for dogs last year. Different species affect heart function and range from moderately to extremely toxic.
All parts of sago palms are toxic, but the seeds cause the most severe liver damage. Foxgloves contain cardiac glycosides that disrupt the heart’s electrolyte balance and are dangerous to dogs, cats and humans.
Bluebells can lower heart rate and produce vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. Autumn crocuses contain colchicine that may lead to respiratory failure, liver and kidney damage or death. Yew can trigger seizures and sudden heart failure. Hydrangeas ranked among the top five exposures reported to the ASPCA in 2025.
Oleander ingestion may cause abdominal pain, depression and death without prompt treatment. “If your dog develops vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness or collapse, seek veterinary care immediately,” said Susanne Heartsill, DVM, US Director at Ceva Animal Health.
” Owners can reduce risk by checking yards for listed plants, supervising dogs outdoors and carrying a sample of any ingested plant to the veterinarian for identification.
