Why it is dangerous to dogs
Lily of the valley contains substances that act on the heart: they can slow the heart rhythm or throw it out of step. Every part of the plant is poisonous: the leaves, the flowers, the red berries, the roots and even the water a bouquet stood in. In a garden, where it grows in dense carpets, a dog can easily bite some off or dig it up.
The amount that causes harm differs from dog to dog and cannot be judged at home. Vomiting can come first, while problems with the heart sometimes only show later.
If your dog may have chewed lily of the valley, contact a vet or an emergency clinic straight away, even if it seems well. Tell them when it could have happened, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
What to watch out for
- Vomiting, diarrhoea and drooling can follow.
- The heart rhythm can be disturbed: the dog becomes weak, dull or collapses.
- A bouquet on the table is dangerous too, and so is the vase water a dog can drink.
- The red berries that ripen in late summer can tempt a curious puppy.
Which parts are dangerous
Not every part of the plant is equally dangerous.
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Leaves and flowers
DangerousThey are poisonous all season, from the first leaves in spring.
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Berries
DangerousThe red berries are as poisonous as the rest of the plant.
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Vase water
DangerousPoisonous substances pass into the water a bouquet stood in.
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.