In recent years, indoor plants have exploded in popularity. Our growing interest in eco-living, interior design, or perhaps our need for something to do around the house during a global pandemic, means household greenery has never been so popular. 

While most garden plants need to be eaten in huge quantities to cause any harm, there are some plants that can be lethal to dogs. It’s therefore important to identify the worst culprits. We’ve compiled a list of common household plants that are poisonous to dogs.

1. Autumn Crocus 

Although beautiful, the Autumn Crocus contains Colchicine and other alkaloid which cause an intense burning sensation in the mouth, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, liver and kidney damage. Although the most toxic part of the plant is the bulb, the entire plant is toxic for dogs.

2. Azalea

The Azalea is so poisonous that the ingestion of just a couple of leaves can leave your dog with severe oral irritation, vomiting and diarrhoea. In severe cases, eating Azalea can cause a drop in blood pressure, coma and death.

3. Peace Lily 

A common houseplant, the Peace Lily is a potential hazard if chewed or ingested. It can cause significant irritation of the mouth leading to drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

4. Tulip

Although the whole of the Tulip is toxic, like most bulbs, the bulb of the Tulip is the most toxic part . Ingestion of this popular flower can cause pain and irritation in the mouth, excessive drooling and nausea.

5. Daffodil

A popular choice in spring, this cheerful plant is especially dangerous. Although the bulb has the highest toxicity, the entire Daffodil is potentially harmful. Like other toxic plants, when ingested the Daffodil can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, convulsions and a potentially fatal drop in blood pressure.

6. Sago Palm

The Sago Palm is extremely toxic to dogs when eaten, causing bloody vomiting and diarrhoea, bleeding disorders, liver failure, and potentially death. Although all of the palm is dangerous, the seeds or “nuts” contain the highest toxicity.

7. Oleander

Don’t let its pretty exterior fool you. Oleanders are very toxic to dogs and can quickly cause fatal heart abnormalities, muscle tremors, incoordination, vomiting and bloody diarrhoea.

8. Cyclamen

Also known as Sowbread, the Cyclamen is popular in households all over Australia. It can cause oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, heart abnormalities, seizures and death if ingested.

9. Amaryllis

The beautiful Amaryllis has toxins that can cause vomiting, depression, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, drooling and tremors.

10. Aloe Vera

We rub it on our skin and some of us even drink the juice, but aloe is something your dog needs to avoid. Saponins in this succulent can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, and general central nervous system depression.

Please note, this is not a complete list. You can find a list of dangerous plants here. If you have a dog, or dogs visit your home regularly, we recommend reviewing this list before purchasing any new plants for your home. It’s also a good idea to do an audit of your current indoor and outdoor plants. 

If you think your dog has ingested any part of a poisonous plant, don’t wait, contact the Pet Poison Helpline or your Vet immediately for advice.

We hope this list helps you choose the right plant for your home while keeping your dog safe. You can read more of our articles about keeping your dog safe and happy around the home here.