Why it is poisonous to dogs
Ivy, especially its leaves and berries, contains saponins – substances that irritate the lining of the mouth and the gut. Ivy is grown both indoors in pots and in gardens, where it climbs walls, fences and tree trunks, so a dog can reach it easily.
A dog that chewed ivy can drool, vomit and have diarrhoea, and its belly can hurt.
If your dog chewed ivy and drools, vomits, has diarrhoea or a painful belly, contact a vet.
What to watch out for
- Drooling and vomiting can follow.
- Diarrhoea and a painful belly can follow.
- The black ivy berries can tempt a curious puppy.
Which parts are dangerous
Not every part of the plant is equally dangerous.
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Leaves
Not safeA dog easily bites them off a wall or out of a pot.
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Berries
Not safeThe black berries irritate the mouth and stomach too.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
Safe plants instead
Plants that are safer to keep.