Toxic to dogs · Plants

Is Dogbane toxic to dogs?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • abnormal heart rhythm
  • abnormal heart rate
  • high potassium level
  • nausea
  • drooling
  • vomiting
  • dilated pupils
  • tremors
  • seizures

How vets treat it

In severe cases, digoxin-specific Fab fragments can be used as an antidote. Immediate veterinary care is required to manage cardiovascular stability and electrolyte imbalances.

Why it's dangerous

The toxins interfere directly with the electrolyte balance within the heart muscle, specifically affecting the sodium-potassium pump, which can lead to life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities and high potassium levels.

Toxic compound: Cardiac glycosides (cardenolides or bufadienolides)

Good to know

All parts of the plant are toxic, including the water in a vase containing the plant. The toxins are similar to digitalis or digoxin.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to dogs

African Wonder Tree Extreme severity Andromeda Japonica Extreme severity Angel's Trumpet Extreme severity Autumn Crocus Extreme severity Everything toxic to dogs →

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