Native to Greenland, this plant does well in colder climates with purple flowers blooming in spring. Photo by: Anna Gratys / Shutterstock. We recommend our users to update the browser. are a welcome sight in the garden. But pet parents should avoid it in their home and gardenit is a highly poisonous plant for dogs, and ingestion can lead to vomiting, irregular heartbeat, reduced blood pressure, confusion and disorientation. The winding, ivy-like golden pothos is another poisonous plant for dogs, and this one contains insoluble calcium oxalatesglass-like crystals that can cause severe discomfort when eaten. Shrubs Some plants make better, um, "fire hydrants" than others. If your dogs eyes and skin are exposed, flush them immediately or give your dog a bath. Affected dogs need immediate treatment. Your dog loves that theyre so interesting to look at. Theyre particularly lovely in a hanging pot, and they wont make your dog sick. Arguably the most beloved and versatile of all annuals, petunias (Petunia spp.) 'Cat's Meow' Catmint Morning glories may be irresistible, but theyre also poisonous to humans and dogs alike. If you already have landscaping or garden beds that contain toxic plants, consider putting up fencing around your beds or garden to keep your dog out. One of the most familiar orchids grown as a houseplant is moth orchid (Phalaenopsis). If your dog has ingested any of the above plants toxic to dogs, call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline, like the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435), for guidance. As you select perennials for your garden, or inventory the existing perennials for safety, use this list of dog safe perennials to help! Swap it: The low-maintenance calathea pinstripe lends a similar tropical aesthetic but is completely safe for your pup. If youre a dog-owner, youre no stranger To help you determine the best options for your situation, we will address issues commonly faced by dog owners, recommend grasses, living ground covers and non-living ground covers, and provide a variety of tips for maintaining a yard that meets the needs of your dogs without sacrificing visual appeal or overall function. Tulips are one of the most popular plants come springtime, but they can cause big problems for curious canines. The glossy leaves and upright habit make this a good choice as a floor plant in a hallway or living room. This grass can reseed itself and withstand high traffic, though its more suitable for cooler climates. Heuchera 'Green Spice'. These nontoxic flowers look fancy, but theyre actually low-maintenance. These small to medium flowering plants do best in partial shade and feature rose-like blooms and succulent foliage. Its safe for pets in some forms; in fact, you can evengive your dog CBD, though youll want to talk to your vet beforehand. There are many things that enhance our lives, among them our pets and plants. Learn more about growing peperomia plants. If youve ever wondered, here is what vets say about whether or not dogs can eat bananas. Swap it: For a similar burst of color, try a pink-hued bromeliad plant instead. But dogs can potentially cause havoc, too, digging up plants and urinating on lawns. If you live in a drier area, such as Southern California, you can save water by installing an irrigation system and setting it for deeper, less frequent watering sessions. In large quantitieswhich are often ingested with chocolate in the form of pot ediblesdogs can experience seizures, coma and death, says Dr. Long. Swap it: Its tricky to swap something for garlic and onions since theyre such common cooking staples, though you could give basil a try. Lets begin. The only downside is that your feline may love it too much, so you might need to replant it now and then. 1084 N El Camino Real STE B #156, Encinitas, CA 92024. To be completely safe, we recommend checking with your pet's veterinarian on whether or not a plant is safe for your pet. Learn more about growing echeveria plants. ), Many fruit-tree leaves (apple, peach, plum, cherry), Tomato leaves and plants (tomato fruit is okay). But quite a few ferns are toxic to dogsthe Bracken and emerald included. Repeated exposure can cause inflammation of the skin as well. Any plant in the allium family, if ingested in large enough quantities, can cause a severe reaction in the bloodstream called hemolysis, in which red blood cells are destroyed in large numbers, says Dr. Long. Foliage plants provide dramatic backdrops to shorter flowers and groundcovers. This tiny, lesser-known sedum (hence, no photo) can take quite a bit of foot traffic and reseeds itself, if damaged. And safely discard your peels to ensure a nosy dog cant dig them out of the trash. On the one hand, they offer a low-maintenance, durable option that can easily withstand heavy traffic and can simply be raked back into place once your dogs have created regular pathways where they patrol or chase each other. She adds that forced vomiting by a veterinarian is key here, and many dogs will require blood transfusions to replace the blood cells that are damaged in order to survive. If youre lucky enough to have a bright spot in your house, Echeveria, with their fleshy rosettes and bold structure, are a great choice for adding a dramatic splash of living color. Areca palm. Dog safe perennials Perennials are the perfect addition to any yard because they come back year after year. As such, always keep this plant outdoors and/or out of reach of your dog. Astilbe is a perennial that does best in shady areas. We have over 25 years of experience helping homeowners with landscape design in San Diego. "Don't avoid all plants and flowers just because a dog is around," she says. Another shrub group with many varieties to choose among, viburnums (Viburnum spp.) Related Reading: Dog Safe Fruits and Vegetables. In some cases, the substance has already been digested and absorbed into the body. This, of course, is always a plus when trying to maintain a balance between happy dogs and an attractive lawn. Suntastic Yellow dwarf sunflower. To start, lets take a look at some common dog friendly plants that you can easily add to your home. Buffalo grass is now marketed in places like Southern California as a low-water, drought-tolerant grass. The trick is to find the best solution for your particular situation. As for citrus fruits, store them out of reach of petslike in a drawer or container in the fridge. Most notably, tomato plants and leaves are not safe for dogs (although ripened tomatoes are okay). Here are some indoor and outdoor pet-friendly plant choices that will give you peace of mind. Whether you grow these plants in your yard or decorate with indoor fruit trees, keep them away from your dog. Some plants that are toxic to dogs are prevalent in backyard gardens and in the wild. The trumpet-shaped flowers come in a wide range of colors and bloom nonstop for months. This plant is non-toxic to dogs. Copyright 2023. As an added bonus, its also an air-purifying plant, releasing oxygen and detoxifying your home. The seeds are most toxic, and canine consumption can cause vomiting, nausea, pupil dilation, hallucinations, incoordination, diarrhea, anemia, confusion and liver failure, notes Dr. Zacharias. Cast iron plant can withstand low light, irregular water, and temperature changes, making it a great choice for novice gardeners. If your pet exhibits any symptoms of illness, seek advice from your veterinarian or local emergency clinic immediately. And they dont contain natural compounds that are toxic to animals, so you dont need to worry if Fido nibbles on a leaf or two.. Wood chips and bark are a bit of a mixed bag in terms of dog-friendly landscaping. Features: Pretty purple flowers and hummocks of aromatic foliage. 'Purple Dome' aster. Nonpoisonous and spineless, they wont harm the furry members of your household. Swap it: People plant oleander for vibrant, lush outdoor foliage. Herbs are actually a great way to freshen your dogs breath! 'Jacob Cline' bee balm. amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; Lenten rose performs well when planted at the base of a deciduous tree. Dont worryits possible to bring a dead plant back to life. And if you ask me, house plants are having quite a moment in popular culture right now. Clinical signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation and even depression, notes the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). With flowers in an array of colors, and forms ranging from miniature to climbing, theres a variety thats suited to any style or size of landscape. Well cover dog safe house plants, dog safe perennials, flowers safe for dogs and outdoor plants that are safe for dogs. Unlike other creeping plants, Thymus serpyllum is completely non-toxic, so . This isnt just a beautiful flowering plant; its a flowering vine whose buds uncurl when the morning sun hits them. Thymes dense, hardy nature allows it to handle light to moderate human and animal traffic; however, it will not fare as well in areas where children or pets play, roll around and roughhouse. Since Boston ferns like humidity and bright, indirect light, bathrooms are also a great spot for them. Its thick trunk and grassy leaves give it a festive look thats perfect for any room in the home. As beautiful as the flowering hibiscus plant is, this one should be kept out of reach of your sweet pup. Grown for its variegated spiky foliage and endearing baby plantlets, spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) has long been a standby of houseplant lovers. Side effects range from mild to quite severe. Delaying treatment can result in serious injury or death. They require little water and are low maintenance, perfect for those with busy lifestyles. Hardiness Zone. Get plant information, gardening solutions, design inspiration and more in our weekly newsletter. Catmint ( Nepeta cataria) Nepeta at the front of a border Pet benefits: The essential oils in the leaves make cats feel very relaxed. Size: 12-24 in. With a spread that's about 2 feet tall and wide, the cast iron plant is a nontoxic option for foundation screening or as a backdrop to shade-loving flowers. This guide will assist you in finding plants that are safe for pets and that can stand up to the extra stresses pets place upon the garden. Dogs are certainly valuable family members, but they sure can wreak havoc on a yard. Swap it: A beautiful alternative to milkweed is babys breath, a delicate flower with tiny white or pink buds. The flowers and stems are toxic, and the bulbs are especially dangerous when consumed. You may not know that many popular houseplants are toxic to dogs, and a surprising amount of outdoor plants, too. Shrubs also serve as substantial backdrops. Its flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This "plant of steel" is practically indestructible, so it's a great choice if you need an easy-care plant that's compatible with your pets. Photo by: Iva Villi / Shutterstock. 10 Tips to Keep Dog Boredom Away, https://www.rover.com/blog/10-safe-plants-dogs-can-add-almost-garden-right-now/, https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/plants-child-pet-safe-1913786/#currentSlide=7, https://www.southernliving.com/garden/flowers/pet-friendly-plants, Haworthia (these look like aloes, but are not toxic! Keep in mind that there is no truly pet-proof ground cover, but if you are looking for something to plant between stepping stones or in small backyard areas, these are good choices that will stand up to light or moderate pet and human traffic. Because St. Augustine grass has deep roots, this might be a good alternative if you have a dog who loves to dig. Astilbe may be some of the taller plants in your perennial shade garden, as they grow to heights between 2 and 5 feet. This trendy succulent doesnt need a lot of water. Although the blooms are short-lived, the green leaves provide color for most of the year. Kentucky bluegrass seed is also used to patch bare spots in other types of lawns because it grows quickly. amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "artificial grass"; Once it is known that the dog ingested these poisonous leaves, rapid transfer to a veterinary hospital where vomiting can be induced is key. Our yards provide a restful retreat from the everyday stresses of the outside world. If you miss the height of taller indoor citrus trees, try the Musa Dwarf Cavendish banana tree, which is both safe for dogs and a fruit producer. It grows best in shady areas and thrives. Though its common for dogs and cats to chew or ingest plants, the reasons arent always clear. They thrive in shade and can grow to several feet tall. If your dog consumes it, youll need to make an immediate visit to your vet to monitor and treat symptoms. This quick-growing annual groundcover thrives in full sun, and is versatile as a bedding plant, in a rock garden, or when grown in a hanging basket or container. How To Create a Dog-Friendly Backyard using the Top-Rated Ground Covers for Dogs, Your best bet is to install as much hardscape, like. If you are the one who generally cleans up after the furry or little ones, you will also love that there are no wet blades of grass or mud to mop up off the floor when they come in from playing on your lush, green lawn even right after it rains. For example, you may find that you can meet your needs and your dogs needs best by having a lawn area, gravel area and dirt area. Swap it: With its beautiful green foliage and flowers, thecanna lilyis a perfect dog-friendly alternative to hibiscus. Wild sarsaparilla provides a vivid green ground cover for shady areas. If you purchase a product through this article, we may receive a portion of the sale. Learn more about growing African violets. Succulents Image Credit: leoleobobeo,Pixabay. Alliumsa genus of herbs that includes garlic and onionsare poisonous plants for dogs. These attractive ferns look great in a hanging basket, so set up a vintage macram hanger out of reach of curious pets and place in a corner of a den or living room where youll most enjoy it. One of the most popular holiday gifts, Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgessii) is grown for its brightly colored blooms that usually occur around Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is one of the easier-to-grow shade perennials since it requires minimal care beyond basic watering. Tree cactus. Kennel and Playpen Covers. Depending on the cultivar, they are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10. Cedar wood chips are a product that actually repels fleas, which makes this a popular choice for dog runs and dog-friendly yards. Vines can be another good choice in a pet friendly yard. Plants can really transform your yard, not only improving the aesthetics but even your resale value too! Best for: small areas, in between stepping stones. The round scalloped leaves and trailing habit of Swedish ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus) make this a perfect choice for hanging planters. ASPCA: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List - Dogs, University of Missouri Extension: Perennial for Shade, University of Kentucky: Perennials for Shady Locations, University of California, Davis: Perennials (PDF, page 2-, Pet Place: How to Plant a Dog-safe Garden, Cornell Department of Horticulture: Bugbane, Partnership for Animal Welfare: Dog Tip: Garden Tips for Dog People, Veterinary Information Network: Non-toxic Plants, ASPCA 24-hour Poison Hot Line: 1-888-426-4435. Roses Roses are some of the most beloved flowers in the world, and fortunately for dog lovers, they're pretty safe for canines. While this common orchid is safe for pets, the bark-based potting medium that its grown in can cause discomfort if ingested. In fact, some restaurants even include roses (as well as other flowers) with their meals as an edible treat. Yes, that is a cat, and evidently they love laying in euonymus fortunei, which can grow up to six inches tall. This relatively drought-tolerant ground cover grows well in full sun or partial shade. While most shade plants are safe, a number of them, such as nightshade, morning glory, foxglove and trumpet vine, can be harmful if ingested or can cause physical harm with thorns or irritating saps. They add beauty to your home, help you feel more in tune with nature and even boast health benefits. While some varieties such as sago palm are toxic to pets, many others are safe. These tough evergreen shrubs or trees are commonly used as foundation plantings, hedging, and screening. The experts at Lowes like euonymus fortunei in yards with pets because it is tough to destroy and can grow in either shade or sun. With their exotic spikes of brightly colored blooms, Guzmania bromeliads look festive. Also known as Swedish begonia, creeping Charlie or whorled plectranthus, this vining plantwhich is not from Sweden, nor is it a true ivyis actually a coleus relative native to tropical regions of Africa, South America, and Australia. ), Do Dogs Get Bored? Common house plants that are toxic to dogs are aloe plants, jades, peace lilies, rubber plants, dumb cane, and the ever-popular pothos! And prevent your pup from exploring the garden if youre growing alliums. In winter, dont overwater, and keep plants away from cold drafts. window.__mirage2 = {petok:"NAgCX8KNlKkDh2ZGcOLsnU8U6KvU6e4vhpmhKal.znM-3600-0"}; She received her bachelor's degree from Franklin College of Indiana's Pulliam School of Journalism, graduating magna cum laude. Common symptoms are vomiting, swelling of the mouth and/or throat, severe oral pain, pawing at the mouth or eyes, severe skin irritation, agitation, coughing, gagging and hypersalivation.. Both coral bells and bugbane are non-toxic to dogs. Frequently asked questions The essentials Many common plants are toxic to pets Most will only have mild effects if ingested, but a few, including daylilies and sago palms, can result in death. are nontoxic, shade-loving shrubs for humid climates. They do best in a sunny site with well-draining soil, such as a rock or gravel garden. By Arricca Elin SanSone Updated: Apr 21, 2022 Save Article Everyone adores a sunny garden with bold and bright blooms. Depending on the severity, you may need to simply monitor and treat your dogs symptoms, or you may need to take your dog in for more aggressive treatment. They are ideal for continuity in a play area and require little maintenance. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; If your dog eats part of a toxic fern, collect a sample of the plant (or take a photo) and take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible so the vet can begin proper decontamination efforts. They sniff with their nose, which means that they could easily get injured by a thorn. All rights reserved. Make sure your turf installer applies a deodorizer to help absorb pet urine odors. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Even though many plants are safe, some pets, like humans, may have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to certain substances, so its important to observe your pets behavior for any possible signs of distress. So if your green thumb is itching, these nontoxic plants are a good place to start. Here are some houseplants you wont have to worry about when it comes to your pets. If you suspect your canine has eaten any part of this plant, immediately go to your veterinarian or emergency veterinary center. This grass, however, will not tolerate high traffic or excessive pet urine. A dog-safe plant that's a win-win all around! A nontoxic ground cover that grows well in part shade, creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) features petite, rounded leaves that turn golden with some sunlight, but will still be striking in shade. Geranium - The Hardy Geranium has to be my first choice in recommended plants for any garden, but especially ones with dogs. For something similar, try a crepe myrtle tree instead. Published: Friday, 17 September, 2021 at 9:20 am From securing to boundaries to protecting your plants, here's our advice on making sure your garden is dog friendly. Creeping Thyme (also known as Breckland Thyme, wild thyme, or by its Latin name Thymus serpyllum) is a super tough species native to North Africa and Europe but which proves popular in the United States as a ground cover option that's safe for dogs. Perfectly safe for pets, these tropical gems are a little more challenging to grow, preferring rich soil and regular fertilizing to achieve optimal flowering. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Home and Garden | Gardening | Beginner Gardening Dog-Safe Shade Perennials By Jennifer Leighton Updated Dec 10, 2018 11:18 p.m. This silver-green leaved ground cover sprouts yellow flowers in warm weather and grows low to the ground, so be sure to plant it exactly at the level you would like it. If consumed by your dog, the sago palm will cause severe vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, as well as stumbling, tremors, seizures and temperature-regulation issues, warns Christie Long, DVM, head of veterinary medicine at Modern Animal in West Hollywood, California. This ornamental herb smells nice and is completely edible. Whether youve got a dog that likes to chomp on your plants or not, its a good idea to be mindful of any and all plants that are accessible to you pup. Find on Amazon Fuchsias Grow the vigorous spreader, considered invasive in some areas, in moist soil. Yards with shade are good candidates for using gravel as a ground cover over larger areas. Plant this small-flowered mini alongside the large-flowered pink blend Eden for a summer flowering display in pink and cream. African Violet: These cute flowers are safe for your dog. They're not only lightweight and portable, but they're easy to set up and take down quickly. Labrador violet grows to roughly eight inches tall and wide and can take daily, light foot traffic, which makes this a good option for those in search of a taller ground cover with blooms. . For year-round color in the garden, few trees rival the elegance of crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia). A familiar sight in nurseries and garden centers on Mothers Day, fuchsias (Fuchsia spp.) The doctor may request that you bring your dog in, especially if severe symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, occur. It is often the case that the best solution is a combination of ground cover options. Ultimately, it causes liver failure, and death can occur with ingestion of an amount as small as a single seed.. Bee balm plants have bright green foliage and flowers that range from pale pink to scarlet red. Trouble with your plants? The thick leaves are not easily digested and can cause stomach upset. Yew is an evergreen shrub typically found outdoors, and its a big no-no for households with dogs. We don't blame you - they're both great! Reseed patches with Kentucky bluegrass, since tall fescue is a slow-grower. Toxic component: Insoluble calcium oxalates. If you're ever curious as to whether a certain plant is a safe investment for your home, the ASPCA also has an extensive list of plants to avoid (including both indoor and outdoor plants . While some ivy varieties are toxic to pets, Swedish ivy is safe for cats and dogs. 3. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process, By creating an account you agree to the Hunker. Common Backyard Problems Faced by Dog Owners, How to Find Plants that Are Safe for Dogs, Privacy Hedges That Are Drought-Tolerant: 10 Options for Southern California, Succulents For Shade: Drought-Tolerant Garden Succulent Guide, Artificial Grass Installation Services in San Diego, Artificial Grass Cost Installation Price Guide. , though its more suitable for cooler climates. The plant is often chosen for its sweet scent, which emits from both the foliage and the flowers. Directly to your inbox. Most are perennial (China aster being an exception) and tend to bloom later in the season when many other flowers are finished blooming. Toxic component: Delta-9-THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). You can buy buffalo grass as seed or in plugs by special order at many local nurseries. Climbing rose choices in size and color are wide and varied. For most dogs, cedar wood chips to not cause breathing issues, but it is worth testing out before you fill your yard with them, and then find out your dog cannot tolerate them. Colorful dianthus barbatus flower, flowerbed of dianthus chinensis flower, outdoor nature background, spring and summer season, Recommended Plants for Fast Growth in the Shade. Or you may find that your dog enjoys spending time on hardscapes, such as a paving stone patio or a wood deck, and only needs a small softscape area for playing and bathroom purposes. Partial shade, moist well drained soil, hardy (H4). And as you plan out your garden for the year you want to make sure to choose outdoor plants that are safe for dogs. Kennel covers are great for keeping your pet shaded while he's hanging out in an outdoor dog kennel or dog playpen. Photo by: Luisa Fumi / Shutterstock. This diminutive succulent is slow-growing and does best in bright light, making it perfect for adorning a window sill or tabletop where a splash of color is needed. Supportive therapy with drugs designed to control gastrointestinal signs, as well as reverse liver and heart issues, is key to survival.. Also known as airplane plant and ribbon plant, this tropical African native is forgiving of neglect and poor conditions, making it a good choice for novice gardeners. A bonus to choosing gravel is that it is easy to pick up solid waste and liquid waste will drain to the soil beneath. Peruvian Lily. The cheerful flowers of creeping zinnia (Sanvitalia procumbens) provide months of nonstop color from early summer to fall. Swap it: Dog owners can do their pets a favor by trading citrus plants for hanging plants that are well out of reach of curious pets. They are also inexpensive, attractive and drought tolerant. They should not be confused with Pelargoniums which are a totally different plant. Miniature sedum works well in drought-tolerant gardens. 4. If you garden organically and your pet is not prone to chewing, roses should generally not pose a problem. To keep your garden safe for canines that can't resist a little munching or burrowing with their exploring, choose plants that won't irritate their skin or cause internal distress. While you may not want your entire yard to be dirt and we certainly do not recommend that you may find that leaving a designated dirt area for your dogs is the perfect solution for your yard. Some species contain cardiotoxins that affect a pets heart, while others contain neurotoxins that can affect organ function and mental state. Find a Garden Center that carries Proven Winners plants & products. It is easier to maneuver around the dogs current habits than it is to teach them new ones! amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Because of its striking appearance and the fact that its very hard to kill, the snake plant is found in houses all across the world. Some pets, particularly dogs, also enjoy the nutty taste of the seeds; fortunately, all parts of the plant are non-toxic for both cats and dogs. Perennial sunflower (Helianthus) is also safe for pets. The sago palm is leafy, beautiful and very easy to grow, which makes it a popular choice as an indoor plant. Here are a few non-living, dog-friendly ground covers to consider for a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance backyard. Fortunately, there are several good choices for perennial plants that love shade -- and your pet too. A beloved cottage garden flower, snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) is grown for its tubular flowers that come in an array of bright colors. Ponytail Palm. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid, 7 Pet-Safe Plants That Wont Hurt Your Dog, *Dog friendly rental filter applied to results, Related article: Yearly Home Cleaning Guide for Pet Owners, Active Shooter & Mass Attack Safety Resources. Camellias (Camellia spp.) But heres the good news: Theyre safe for pets and recommended for people with allergies and asthma. My own gardens contain hostas, hydrangeas, and clematis vines. When cutting roses for the vase, thorns can be removed from the stems to make them safer. option. Another solution that works for many dog lovers is to use pet-friendly ground covers in most areas of the yard, while adding island flower beds or borders along the fence where you can add the texture and color of more interesting plants to enhance your yards visual appeal. Keep pets away from plants if they show interest, not just for safety, but to keep plants from incurring unsightly damage. Just dont confuse canna lilies with calla lilies, which are poisonous to dogs. Theyre often more robust than annuals, and flowering, ornamental varieties provide lots of color. Discover the right plants for your garden.