Flowers You Can Plant In A Dog-Safe Garden
Updated 02/04/2022 by Ava Jaine
The warm weather is finally here. I’ll bet you are so ready to get outside and start planting… I know I am! Before gardening to your hearts content this year, take a look at some flowers that are non-toxic and safe around your dog.
Be wary of the flowers that are poisonous to your furry friend. No worries though, we have a large list of Colorful Flowers You Can Plant In A Dog-Safe Garden.
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Table Of Contents:
Dog-Safe Annual Flowers
Dog-Safe Perennial Flowers
Questionable Dog-Safe Flowers
Dog-Friendly Shrubs
Toxic Flowers For Dogs
(Video) 15 Perennials Every Garden Should Have! 💪🌿💚 // Garden AnswerPrintable List Of Dog-Safe Flowers
Best Dog-Safe Annual Flowers:
My husband and I really look forward to planting new flowers in our garden every spring. But, we do have two dogs of our own and we need to keep their safety in mind.
I was super happy to find out that there are plenty of beautiful dog-friendly flowers that I can plant this year without the worry of putting my dog’s life at stake.
Roses:
Roses are non-toxic flowers that are pretty safe for dogs. Don’t let your pup get too close though, they have some prickly thorns, so they may require a little decorative fence to protect your dog from a sharp poke.
Zinnias:
These pretty flowers are safe for your canine friend as well. They can really add some brilliant color to your flower garden. Zinnias bloom from them middle of summer until the season’s first frost. They attract hummingbirds and butterflies, which help with the flower pollination. Find some Rainbow Mix Zinnias on Amazon.
Snapdragons:
Lovely snapdragons are also safe for dogs. They are considered a “self-seeding” annual flower. They do best in full sun.
African Violet:
These cute flowers are safe for your dog. Violets are fairly easy to maintain and they grow best in filtered light, not direct sun.
Orchids:
The Phalaenopsis Orchid (aka: Moth Orchid or Moon Orchid) are non-toxic to dogs. Orchids can brighten up your home for several months at a time. Fertilizer is recommended to keeping theses beauties growing, which is toxic, so keep them up where your dog can’t reach them if you have one in your home.
Sunflowers:
These golden flowers are safe for dogs. Sunflowers will add lots of charm to your flower garden and style to your home.
Best Dog-Safe Perennial Flowers:
Planting a few perennials is a great idea so you don’t have to replant them every year. Which perennial plants are safe for dogs?
Keep in mind, the following dog-friendly flowers are safe to plant in your garden, but adding any pesticides or fertilizers is toxic to your dog.
Lilies:
Lilies are not toxic to dogs, but they are toxic to cats. This brilliantly colored flower likes full to partial sun. Lilies grow from bulbs and show off their beautiful blooms in the summer time.
Hollyhocks:
Hollyhocks aren’t poisonous to dogs, but their leaves and stems have sharp fibers that can cause an irritation and an itchy rash if your dog rubs up against the plant. Hollyhocks are considered a short-lived perennial because most varieties only live two to three years.
Petunias:
Petunias are perennial flowers that are planted in the spring, then bloom throughout the warm months. They are safe and will not harm your furry companion.
Honeysuckle Fuchsia:
The Honeysuckle Fuchsia is a colorful, non-toxic choice for your dog-safe garden. These exotic looking beauties are shaped like little hanging lanterns. Fuchsia flowers come in shades of red, magenta, pink, and purple.
Pansies:
Pansies come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, blue, purple, orange, and red. Amazon has some Awesome Swiss Giants Pansy Seeds.
Bee Balm:
Bee Balm is a non-toxic plant that is safe for dogs and will add a beautiful aroma to your garden. Bee Balm comes in shades of pink, purple, red, and white. Bee balm spreads rapidly and comes back each year.
Hens and Chicks:
Hens and Chicks are fast-growing succulents that are safe around dogs. They are easy to grow and do not require a lot of water. They are a great addition to any flower or rock garden.
Nasturtiums:
These flowers are usually grown as annual flowers, but are actually perennial flowers. These pretty flowers are dog-safe and will add a nice aroma to any garden. Nasturtiums don’t need fertilizers, so they are easy to plant in different locations of your garden.Note: Nasturtium (Watercress) is Toxic to dogs.
Jasmine:
Jasmine is a delightful plant that is safe to have around your pup. It prefers warm temperatures, a good amount of water, and needs additional potassium to grow. Madagascar Jasmine is safe and non-toxic to dogs.Note: Cape Jasmine and Paraguayan Jasmine ARE TOXIC to dogs.
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The Perfect Addition to a Dog-Safe Garden: Life Is Better With A Dog Garden Flag.
Questionable Dog-Safe Flowers:
Some flowers boast that they are non-toxic and dog friendly, but they have toxic relatives that look almost identical. So, I’m labeling the following flowers as “questionable” and “plant at your own risk” flowers.
Always do your research before planting any flowers to keep your dog safe.
Gerbera Daisies:
Gerbera Daisies are not toxic to Dogs, but the Daisy Chrysanthemums are toxic to dogs.What are the differences between Daisy Chrysanthemum and Gerbera Daisies?
Gerbera Daisies (Non-Toxic): Gerbera Daisies originated from Africa. Types of Gerbera Daisies: Gerbera Jamesonii and Lollipop Gerber.
(Video) 15 PLANTS SAFE FOR CATS AND DOGS | PET FRIENDLY HOUSE PLANTS I NON TOXIC INDOOR PLANTSChrysanthemum Daises (Toxic): The Painted Daisy and the Tiger Tail are Very Toxic to your dog. These flowers originated from China.
These pretty flowers look ‘similar’, so be extra cautious if you choose to add them to your garden.
Marigolds:
Are marigolds toxic to dogs? Some marigolds are toxic to dogs and some aren’t toxic. Many flowers in the marigold family can cause your dog to have GI issues when eaten and also cause skin irritation if touched.Pot marigolds are considered non-toxic to dogs if eaten. If your pup eats the wrong type of Marigold, symptoms of Marigold Poisoning include vomiting, excessive drooling, upset stomach and pain, diarrhea, redness and irritation of the skin, nose, and eyes.
Dog-Friendly Shrubs:
What about Dog-Friendly Shrubs or Bushes?Each shrub is listed as non-toxic to dogs, but keep in mind, your pup can still get sick if they take a bite out of your plants.
Best Dog-Friendly Shrubs For Your Garden:
Tropical Hibiscus
Crepe Myrtle
Hawthorn
Magnolia
Figleaf Palm
Bamboo Palm
Oregon Grape
Forsythia (aka: Golden Bells)
Boston Fern
Now, don’t let your pup feast on your garden plants or flowers just because they are non-toxic. Some plants and flowers can still make your dog very sick. Continue to remain cautious about your dog rooting around the garden.
If your dog does ingest any poisonous flowers, call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
Toxic Flowers For Dogs
What Flowers Can Make Dogs Sick? Some of the most popular flowers that are poisonous to dogs include Azalea, Buttercups, Chrysanthemums, Dahlia, Gardenias, Gladiolas, Hibiscus, Hyacinth, Hydrangeas, Mums, Primroses, Oleander, Rhododendrons, Rose of Sharon, and Sweet Peas.
Related Post: Flowers That Are Toxic To Dogs, by the ASPCA
Mulch
Cocoa bean mulch is made from cocoa shells and contains theobromine, which is very toxic to dogs.
Pine needle mulch is sharp, and if ingested can puncture the lining of your dog’s stomach. So, skip the cocoa bean and pine needle mulch.
It’s best to stick with cedar mulch, untreated wood mulch, or hemlock mulch instead.
Printable Dog-Safe Flowers List
When you are ready to purchase those dog-friendly flowers for your garden, take along our Free Printable list of Dog-Safe Flowers with you. Printer scale settings need to be fit to paper.
Benefits Of Gardening:
Gardening is good for your health. Planting your beautiful flower garden can be therapeutic and a nice stress reliever. Make sure your flowers are safe for your dog to give you an extra piece of mind so you can enjoy your gorgeous blooms this season.
What Dog-Friendly Flowers do you like to plant each year? Let us know below in the comments.
Up Next: 6 Proven Ways to Stop Motion Sickness in Dogs
Helpful Links:
- ASPCA’s Large List of Toxic and Non Toxic Plants
- Toxic Fertilizers for Dogs
- Easter Dangers For Small Dogs
FAQs
What flowers are OK with dogs? ›
You can still have a beautiful garden if you have a dog – many plants pose no threat to dogs. They include snapdragons, asters, camellias, rose, sunflowers, elaeagnus, centaurea (cornflower), impatiens and Calendula.
Which spring bulbs are safe for dogs? ›- Agapanthus – Lily of The Nile.
- Freesia – Freesia.
- Liatris – Blazing Star.
- Lilium Asiatic – Asiatic Lily.
- Lilium longiflorum – Trumpet Lily, Easter Lily.
The marigold plant can be mildly toxic to dogs when ingested and can also cause irritation when contact is made with the fur and skin. Though the effects of this plant are not life-threatening in any way, your pet may experience discomfort with exposure. Protect yourself and your pet.
Is lavender toxic to dogs? ›Can dogs eat lavender? No, never feed your dog lavender buds or essential oil. They both contain linalool, a compound that is toxic to dogs in large amounts.
Are pansies dog friendly? ›Want a beautiful flower that comes in a variety of colors, while also being safe for our dogs? Then you need to add Pansies to your garden. Not only do they come in red, orange, blue, and purple (to name a few), but they are actually edible!
Is Jasmine toxic to dogs? ›According to the ASPCA, true Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is non-toxic to dogs. Whether your pet rolls around the flower or ingests any part of it, he will not suffer any ill effects.
Are geraniums dog friendly? ›They'll be interesting for your dog to look at and smell but won't cause any harm. Geraniums are simple to grow and are a beautiful dense shrub which blooms with stunning purple, white, pink and red flowers – there are lots of varieties. They are an ideal addition to your pet-friendly garden and an English favorite.
Are daisies poisonous to dogs? ›The consumption of one or two daisies will usually not harm your pup, but eating a large amount of daisies could be enough to cause vomiting, drooling, and even muscle spasms or convulsions.
What can you not plant with dogs? ›- Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale)
- Azalea/rhododendrons (Rhododendron species)
- Bluebells (Hyacinthoides species)
- Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster species)
- Crocuses (Crocus species)
- Daffodils (Narcissus species)
- Dumbcane (Diffenbachia species)
- Foxgloves (Digitalis species)
Zinnia. Add zinnias to your no-nonsense list of hard-performing annual flowers, and rest easy knowing that they aren't toxic to your pets, either. If you've only experienced the mildew-prone old-fashioned varieties of zinnia, try the 'Zahara' series, which offers months of disease-free color on compact plants.
Are sunflowers poisonous to dogs? ›
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals lists sunflowers as a non-toxic plant, meaning that your dog can eat an entire sunflower and not experience any health risks due to toxicity.
Is Mint poisonous to dogs? ›Dogs can safely eat one or two fresh, plain mint leaves per day. However, feeding your dog mint leaves in excess may upset their digestive system. Stick to serving them a few small bites of mint occasionally, rather than regularly.
Are tulip petals poisonous to dogs? ›Tulips, Hyacinth and Irises
Tulips, Hyacinths and Irises are all considered toxic to both dogs and cats, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling if ingested.
Diced-up dried or fresh rosemary is safe to add to your dog's food or water and can help support heart health and digestion. Be sure to only feed your dog a teaspoon or so as a treat—if your dog accidentally overeats this herb, the side effects may include indigestion and stomach upset.
Is Basil poisonous to dogs? ›Yes! Basil is healthy for your dog to eat in small quantities. It's anti-inflammatory and contains a high level of antioxidants that help prevent many types of illness including cancer. Basil also helps prevent cellular damage, calms your anxious dog, and eases arthritis pain.
Is Lemongrass okay for dogs? ›Lemongrass is toxic to dogs due to the cyanogenic glycosides and oils in the plant. Lemongrass poisoning, however, is rare in canines since dogs must ingest large quantities of the plant to trigger severe symptoms.
How do I neutralize dog urine in my garden? ›Dog spots can be “cured” by sprinkling the affected area with baking soda, gypsum, dishwashing detergent, etc. to neutralize the urine.
How do you keep dog urine from killing plants? ›After your dog urinates on any plants in your yard, douse the area with water from your garden hose to neutralize dog urine in garden. A thorough rinsing of the area within eight hours of urination dilutes the urine enough to prevent damage to the plant.
Are rose bushes resistant to dog urine? ›So why is it that it killed the plants? Nitrogen is the true killer of your plants! Sure roses can withstand, and actually need nitrogen to live a healthy life, however dog urine has far too much of it and is exactly what causes your roses to wither away.
What garden plants are dog safe? ›Marigolds – These bright red-orange and yellow flowers attract bees to your garden for great pollination. They also act as a natural form of pest control so harmful bugs won't ruin your garden. Sunflower – As one of the most recognizable flowers, sunflowers are dog-safe plants that grow several feet tall.
What big plants are pet safe? ›
- Rattlesnake Plant. ...
- Spider Plant. ...
- Parlor Palm. ...
- Calathea Orbifolia. ...
- Ponytail Palm. ...
- (Certain) Succulents. ...
- African Violet. ...
- Bird's Nest Fern.
Fuchsias are not toxic to dogs. If your dog has eaten any part of the fuchsia plant including the berries, seed pods, or flower then they will be safe if no fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides present. Fuchsias are not dangerous, and are edible, reportedly being juicy, tangy, and sweet.
Are dahlias safe for dogs? ›Dahlia: Another beautiful flower that ranks among the plants toxic to dogs and cats are dahlias. Although not as high in toxicity as some of the other plants mentioned, this flower will cause your pet to experience mild gastrointestinal signs and mild dermatitis.
Are sweet peas poisonous to dogs? ›Although the name "sweet pea" (Lathyrus latifolius and L. odoratus) sounds innocuous and lovely as can be, the family Fabaceae plants are actually toxic to various animals, including dogs.
Is Gardenia toxic to dogs? ›Specific types of gardenia can be considered toxic to dogs, cats and horses. However, in most cases the plants cause mild discomfort like diarrhea and hives. This is true for all parts of the plant. The leaves, seeds, flowers and roots are all non-toxic and considered safe to humans.
Are azaleas poisonous to dogs? ›#12 Azalea/Rhododendron
These common flowering shrubs are poisonous plants for dogs and produce serious gastrointestinal issues. They can additionally cause weakness, discoordination, and weak heart rate.
Here's the good news: bougainvillea is nowhere to be found on the ASPCA's extensive list of plants that are harmful to dogs. That means you're free to cultivate it, decorate with it, or frolic in its general vicinity without worrying about what might happen should your pup decide to turn it into a snack.
Are snapdragons safe for dogs? ›Snapdragons are not poisonous to dogs or puppies. Dogs do not typically bother with snapdragons in the garden or in containers. If a dog happens to excessively chew or eat snapdragons, vomiting can occur but there should be no cause for concern.
Are wildflowers safe for dogs? ›Enjoy looking at wildflowers? Be careful: lilies, azaleas, rhododendrons, foxglove, African violets, bluebells, crocuses, and even daffodils can be dangerous to dogs. Some other plants that you should keep your pooch from snacking on include hemlock, wolfsbane, ivy, mountain laurel, elderberry, and flax.
Are ferns safe for dogs? ›True ferns, like the Boston Fern, are typically non-toxic to dogs, and they make wonderful houseplants. These graceful, easy-care ferns make wonderful hanging plants or the perfect accent to the top of a bookshelf.
Are impatiens poisonous to dogs? ›
Are Impatiens Poisonous to Dogs? Impatiens are non-toxic to dogs. Eating any part of the plant can cause an upset stomach, so the dog may throw up or experience diarrhea. The plant has a bitter taste, hopefully discouraging your furry friend from eating the plant.
Are lily petals poisonous to dogs? ›All parts of the lily plant are toxic to both dogs and cats. That includes the pollen and stamens, the flower petals, sepals, leaves, stems, and bulbs.
Are daffodils poisonous to dogs? ›Daffodils are poisonous to dogs if they eat the bulbs or flowers, or drink water from a vase with daffodils in. Daffodils are poisonous if eaten. They can give your dog an upset stomach, make them vomit, and make them very sleepy and wobbly. A dog that's been poisoned by daffodils might also have fits.
Can you have flowers around dogs? ›FLOWERING PLANTS
Equally, there are just as many flowering and scented plants that are perfectly safe for your canine companion to stop and smell. Some pup-ular and dog-friendly flowers include roses, echinaceas, fuchsias, sunflowers, pansies and petunias.
- Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale)
- Azalea/rhododendrons (Rhododendron species)
- Bluebells (Hyacinthoides species)
- Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster species)
- Crocuses (Crocus species)
- Daffodils (Narcissus species)
- Dumbcane (Diffenbachia species)
- Foxgloves (Digitalis species)
Roses are non-toxic to pets, making them a fairly good option for landscaping for pet owners. They're a good option for cut flowers inside, as well, since they won't hurt your indoor pet if they consume any fallen pedals.
Are sunflowers safe for dogs? ›The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals lists sunflowers as a non-toxic plant, meaning that your dog can eat an entire sunflower and not experience any health risks due to toxicity.
Are sunflowers poisonous to dogs? ›Sunflowers are not poisonous and will not harm your dog. The good news for pet parents is that sunflowers are not poisonous to dogs. The flower, seeds, leaves, and stems will not cause your furry friend any harm if he eats them. This means they are a great choice for planting in a dog-friendly garden!
Are fuchsia safe for dogs? ›Fuchsias are not toxic to dogs. If your dog has eaten any part of the fuchsia plant including the berries, seed pods, or flower then they will be safe if no fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides present. Fuchsias are not dangerous, and are edible, reportedly being juicy, tangy, and sweet.
What garden plants are dog safe? ›Marigolds – These bright red-orange and yellow flowers attract bees to your garden for great pollination. They also act as a natural form of pest control so harmful bugs won't ruin your garden. Sunflower – As one of the most recognizable flowers, sunflowers are dog-safe plants that grow several feet tall.
What big plants are pet safe? ›
- Rattlesnake Plant. ...
- Spider Plant. ...
- Parlor Palm. ...
- Calathea Orbifolia. ...
- Ponytail Palm. ...
- (Certain) Succulents. ...
- African Violet. ...
- Bird's Nest Fern.
According to the ASPCA, true Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is non-toxic to dogs. Whether your pet rolls around the flower or ingests any part of it, he will not suffer any ill effects.
Are petunias safe for dogs? ›Your furry friend will be safe around Petunias since these flowering plants are dog-friendly and not poisonous. Should your canine companion eat Petunias, they will be safe, although eating large quantities of anything, even if it is safe, can cause an upset stomach.
Are zinnias safe for dogs? ›Zinnia. Add zinnias to your no-nonsense list of hard-performing annual flowers, and rest easy knowing that they aren't toxic to your pets, either. If you've only experienced the mildew-prone old-fashioned varieties of zinnia, try the 'Zahara' series, which offers months of disease-free color on compact plants.
Are sweet peas toxic to dogs? ›Although the name "sweet pea" (Lathyrus latifolius and L. odoratus) sounds innocuous and lovely as can be, the family Fabaceae plants are actually toxic to various animals, including dogs.
Are impatiens toxic to dogs? ›Are Impatiens Poisonous to Dogs? Impatiens are non-toxic to dogs. Eating any part of the plant can cause an upset stomach, so the dog may throw up or experience diarrhea. The plant has a bitter taste, hopefully discouraging your furry friend from eating the plant.
Are tulips poisonous to dogs? ›Tulips, Hyacinths and Irises are all considered toxic to both dogs and cats, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling if ingested. All parts of the plants contain toxins and can cause issues for your pets, but the toxins are most concentrated in the bulbs of the plant—making the bulb the most dangerous part.
Are dahlias safe for dogs? ›Dahlia: Another beautiful flower that ranks among the plants toxic to dogs and cats are dahlias. Although not as high in toxicity as some of the other plants mentioned, this flower will cause your pet to experience mild gastrointestinal signs and mild dermatitis.