Discover which indoor plants are safe for dogs and which ones pose health hazards. Learn about toxic plants like aloe vera, sago palm, tulips, and oleander, and find tips on protecting your pets from plant-related dangers and parasites with effective treatments. Keep your furry friends healthy and safe at home.

Indoor Plants and Dogs: What You Need to Know

Many pet owners love having houseplants, but some varieties can pose health risks to dogs. Since dogs often chew plants unaware of their toxicity, it's crucial to choose pet-friendly options. Some popular houseplants contain harmful substances that can cause severe health issues if ingested. Continue reading to discover which indoor plants are safe for your furry friends and which should be kept out of reach.

Aloe Vera
While commonly used for skin remedies, aloe vera can be dangerous to dogs. The plant's saponins may cause poisoning if swallowed, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or neurological problems.

Sago Palm
Known also as coontie or cardboard palm, the sago palm contains cycasin, a toxin dangerous to dogs. Chewing any part of this plant, especially seeds and nuts, can lead to poisoning with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or liver damage.

Tulips
Bright and beautiful, tulips can be hazardous if you have pets. Dogs might chew on the leaves, and ingestion of the bulbs can cause serious poisoning because of Tulipalin toxins. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive salivation.

Oleander
This decorative shrub produces stunning flowers but contains toxic compounds in all parts. Even small amounts can cause drooling, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and depression in dogs.

To keep your dog safe, avoid planting these toxic species indoors. Additionally, pests like fleas and ticks can transmit diseases such as heartworm and tick fever. Protect your pet with treatments like Advantix® and Simparica Trio, which provide effective protection against these pests. Advantix® is a monthly topical for dogs over 7 weeks, guarding against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Simparica Trio is a chewable tablet that offers monthly defense against heartworms, fleas, roundworms, and hookworms.