Christmas Plants Toxic to Dogs: What to Know

This is general information. Toxicity varies by species, the part eaten, the amount, and the dog. When in doubt, contact your veterinarian.

• Poinsettia: the sap can irritate the mouth and stomach and may cause drooling or vomiting. Usually mild.
• Holly: berries and spiny leaves can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth irritation. The leaves can also injure the mouth.
• Mistletoe: considered more dangerous. Eating it can cause stomach upset, and in larger amounts effects on the heart and nervous system have been reported. Keep it well out of reach.
• Amaryllis: the bulb is the most toxic part and can cause vomiting, drooling, and lethargy. Keep bulbs away from dogs.
• Ivy: can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Pine, fir, and spruce: needles can irritate the stomach and may cause a mechanical injury, and the oils can upset a dog's stomach.
• Christmas cactus: generally considered low in toxicity, but can upset the stomach.
• Lilies: much more dangerous for cats than for dogs, but still best kept away from pets.

Pine and fir needles are sharp and indigestible. A dog who chews and swallows a lot of them can end up with an irritated stomach, vomiting, or even a blockage. Needles on the floor can also stick in paws.

Tree water is another hazard. Stagnant water can grow bacteria, and some additives and preservatives are not suitable for pets. Cover the tree stand with a guard or skirt so the dog cannot drink from it, and avoid adding aspirin, sugar, or commercial preservatives unless you are certain they are pet-safe.

Sweep up fallen needles regularly, and place the tree where it will not be knocked over easily. Anchoring a large tree to a wall or ceiling hook prevents accidents.

Most dogs who nibble a poinsettia leaf end up with a mildly upset stomach at worst. Holly, mistletoe, and amaryllis deserve more caution, and that is where a call to your vet is most warranted. If you do not know exactly what your dog ate, take a photo of the plant and a sample of the leaves or berries with you when you ring or visit.

Also remember that the toxic plant is not the only risk. Dogs who chew and swallow stems, leaves, or pots can get blockages or injuries even from plants that are not poisonous.

Stay calm and move your dog away. Take out any plant material from the mouth if you can do so safely.

1. Identify the plant. If you do not know the name, take a photo or keep a piece.
2. Estimate how much was eaten and when.
3. Rinse the mouth gently with water if the dog is drooling or irritated, if the dog allows it.
4. Call your veterinarian or a poison helpline. In the US, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) and the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) answer around the clock and may charge a fee.
5. Follow their advice, and watch for vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, tremors, weakness, or changes in behavior.

Note: Do not try to make your dog vomit unless a veterinarian tells you to.

The simplest option is to choose artificial plants and decorations for any area the dog can reach, and to keep real plants high up or in a room that is closed off. Even artificial greenery should be checked for loose parts that could be chewed and swallowed.

• Hang mistletoe and holly high, or use artificial versions.
• Keep poinsettias, amaryllis, and potted plants on high surfaces or behind closed doors.
• Put a barrier or pen around the tree, and use a tree skirt or cover for the water.
• Sweep up fallen needles and berries every day.
• Supervise your dog when new plants and decorations are introduced.
• Give the dog plenty of its own chews and activities so decorations are less interesting.

Training reduces the temptation. Practice leave-it near safe items first, then near the tree or the edge of a table with decorations. Reward the dog for looking away or moving off, and give a better treat as a reward.

A mat command also helps: ask the dog to settle on a bed or mat in a spot where they can see the room but are not near the tree. Reward calm behavior often at first, then less frequently.