Over 50 common UK garden plants are toxic to dogs, with yew, foxglove, and lily of the valley causing potentially fatal poisoning. The Animal Poison Line (01202 509000) handles over 50,000 pet poisoning calls annually. Daffodil bulbs are the most frequent cause of dog poisoning in UK gardens. Symptoms range from mild drooling to cardiac arrest within hours depending on the plant and amount ingested.
Key takeaways
- Yew, foxglove, and lily of the valley can kill a dog within hours of ingestion
- Daffodil bulbs are the most common cause of dog poisoning in UK gardens
- Call the Animal Poison Line on 01202 509000 immediately if your dog eats a toxic plant
- Safe alternatives exist for every toxic plant, including dog-safe cottage garden schemes
- Spring and autumn are the highest risk seasons due to bulb planting and fallen berries
- Keep dogs away from compost heaps, which concentrate toxins from decaying plant material
toxic plants dogs pet safety garden safety poisonous plants
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
