Why it is dangerous to dogs
Rhododendrons and azaleas are close relatives, and both contain poisons that disturb the work of the nerves and the heart. Every part of the plant is poisonous: the leaves, the flowers, the twigs and the nectar. Rhododendrons grow in gardens and parks, while azaleas are also kept indoors in pots.
The amount that causes harm differs from dog to dog and cannot be judged at home. Drooling and vomiting can come first, while weakness and a disturbed heart rhythm may show later.
If your dog chewed a rhododendron or an azalea, 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
- Drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea can follow.
- The dog can become weak, stagger or collapse.
- The heart rhythm can be disturbed.
- Pruned twigs and fallen leaves under the shrub can be poisonous too.
Which parts are dangerous
Not every part of the plant is equally dangerous.
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Leaves
DangerousThey are poisonous both green and fallen.
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Flowers
DangerousThey are as poisonous as the leaves.
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.