With the cold weather here to stay for a while, odds are you will want to have more plants inside to bring some of the joys of summer into your home. But if you’re a dog owner, it’s essential to be aware of the plants that could cause potential harm to your furry friend. And while a majority of house plants are fine to keep around your pup, there are a few you should think twice about! In this article, you will learn about a few of the plants that aren’t safe for your dog!
Why Do Dogs Tend To Eat Houseplants?
Dogs are naturally curious creatures and tend to explore anything in their environment. Unfortunately, this curiosity sometimes leads them to discover how tasty houseplants can be! Different houseplants contain compounds that can be attractive to a dog’s olfactory senses. For example, ivy contains oxalic acid, which has a sweet odor; because of this, dogs may find it challenging to resist nibbling on the leaves.
Some types of foliage can also appeal to dogs due to their texture and chewiness. On top of that, if you have a dog with an obsessive chewing habit, it may be more likely to try and munch on your plants to satisfy the urge.
Tulips
While tulips are beautiful additions to any indoor garden, you should not choose them if you have a pet dog in your home. Dogs are naturally curious and often attracted to colorful objects, such as the vibrant blooms of a tulip flower. Unfortunately, these flowers pose a serious risk due to their high toxicity levels for dogs. If ingested, toxins from tulips can cause digestive issues, from vomiting and diarrhea to more severe reactions that require immediate medical attention.
In addition, the bulbs of the plant can present an even higher risk than the blooms themselves. Therefore, it is best to avoid these types of plants altogether on any property where a dog is present for their safety.
Philodendrons
Philodendrons can offer an exotic, easy-to-maintain look to any home and may even freshen the air with their natural neurotoxin-neutralizing powers. But unfortunately, philodendrons are not safe for your furry friends, both cats, and dogs. While many plants pose a significant danger to pets if ingested or chewed on, philodendrons require special attention due to their mysterious toxin makeup.
Philodendron’s toxic mix is more difficult for veterinarians to identify and treat than those of more well-known common plants; these toxins can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and other serious complications. As a result, dog owners should be particularly weary of this beautiful houseplant, as even just one nibble can lead to significant health concerns.
