Are Succulents Poisonous To Dogs?

 

Succulents are becoming very popular houseplants. They are easy to look after and can grow easily indoors. While they grow naturally in deserts and other harsh environments, they are hardy plants that can adapt well to their surroundings.

But while succulents are great for us humans, the same cannot always be said for our furry friends. Dogs that somehow manage to get their teeth into some species of succulents can suffer serious harm, because some succulents are poisonous to dogs.

If you’re interested in starting a succulent collection at home or in your garden, then it’s important to know the succulents that are not poisonous to your dog.

Keeping Your Dogs Safe

Exotic houseplants are more accessible than ever before. The best way to keep your dog safe is to know which ones are not poisonous to your dog. 

It’s a good idea to research online beforehand to understand which plants may be poisonous to your dog. You may wish to do the same for existing plants too.

Even if they don’t contain any toxic compounds, you should do your best to prevent your dog from eating any poisonous plants.

So, with that being said, here are a few succulents that are poisonous to your dog, as well as some that are totally non poisonous and safe to have around the home and in the garden.

If all of this seems like a little much, click here to check out our collection of dog safe succulents for sale. 

Succulents That Are Poisonous To Dogs 

Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe is a popular succulent known for its gorgeous blossoms that span a wide range of colors, from a subtle pale pink to a vibrant, fiery orange. It’s a tropical succulent and has several nicknames, including Mother of Millions, Devil’s Backbone and the Mother-in-Law Plant.

Given the “Devil’s Backbone” nickname, it may not come as a huge surprise to learn that Kalanchoe succulents are poisonous to dogs. Common symptoms that a dog has ingested this succulent are vomiting and diarrhea.

It’s important that you seek veterinary care as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of the most grown succulents. It’s often used in the beauty and medical industries for its healing and therapeutic properties, such as treating sunburn and as an ingredient in a variety of supplements.

However, Aloe vera can be poisonous to dogs. It contains compounds known as saponins that dogs find toxic, leading to vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.

There are several forms of Aloe vera. Some have white spotted foliage, while others will flower during certain times of the year. They should all be kept away from dogs.

Jade

Jade is one of the easiest succulents to grow at home. They have thick stems and plump leaves that give them a tree-like appearance, but at a much smaller scale that look great on a windowsill.

There are several Jade plant varieties out there and every one of them are poisonous to dogs. Common symptoms that your dog has ingested Jade include incoordination and gastrointestinal upset.

Euphorbia

Euphorbia is a large, diverse genus, ranging from large sprawling trees to low-growing plants that can be seen in homes across the country, such as the Pencil Cactus and Crown of Thorns

However, many of Euphorbia can be poisonous to dogs. Symptoms include skin and eye irritation, gastrointestinal upset, and more.

Succulents That Are Safe For Dogs

Hens And Chickens

Hen and Chicks, also known as the Houseleek plant, is a very popular succulent. It’s very low maintenance and can grow pretty much anywhere. The main plant (the hen) connects to smaller offshoots that make for a very appealing display. 

But best of all, they are totally safe to have around the home if you have a dog.

Haworthia

If you want the look of an Aloe vera but without the threat of poisoning your dog, then look no further than Haworthia. It has a similar spiked silhouette of an Aloe vera, but has white stripes along the leaves.

This is why it’s also known as the Zebra Plant.

Burro’s Tail

This succulent has long trailing tendrils that look great hanging from the top of a bookshelf or in a hanging planter from the ceiling. They may even blossom in the summer.