Not all plants are safe for dogs – and it could make them ill if you choose the wrong ones
As the summer weather gets closer, people are keen to get back in their garden. But if you have a dog, you need to make sure that you plant dog-friendly options.
Searches for ‘dog friendly garden plants’ have soared by 324% over the past three months with veterinary expert at Pure Pet Food, Emma Passman, revealing the five best pet-safe plants for your garden. She says: “Dogs are naturally curious and love to explore your garden with their noses and mouths. However, several common plants, such as daffodils and foxgloves, can be toxic if ingested.
“As such, if you’re gardening this summer, it’s important to choose non-toxic greenery and stay informed about which plants could pose a risk.” So what can you plant?
Dog-friendly plants you that will thrive in your garden
1. Marigolds
Safe for dogs and naturally effective at repelling pests, marigolds are both practical and attractive garden additions. These low-maintenance flowers flourish in sunny areas, bringing vivid orange and yellow hues to your outdoor space.
Beyond their beauty, marigolds help ward off common pests like aphids and whiteflies, offering natural protection for surrounding plants. This not only promotes a healthier garden but also creates a more enjoyable, chemical-free environment.
Emma said: “While a large amount of petals could cause mild tummy upset in dogs, marigolds are generally considered safe and make a cheerful, pet-friendly choice for your garden.”
2. Snapdragons
If you want a plant that brings both height and vibrant colour to your garden, Snapdragons are an excellent choice for dog-friendly borders, with their tall, striking blooms and pet-safe qualities. Available in a wide range of shades – from soft pastels to bold reds – snapdragons also attract bees and butterflies, supporting pollination throughout your garden.
The expert notes: “With their tall, upright stems and dense clusters of blooms, snapdragons add height and texture to your borders. They’re an easy way to create a layered, more dynamic look while ensuring your dog can roam safely around non-toxic plants.”
3. Spider Plants
Emma's third plant is the spider plant, suggesting: “If you’re after a hardy houseplant that’s safe for pets and easy to care for, the spider plant is a top choice. Known for its air-purifying qualities, this greenery thrives in a variety of outdoor spaces and is just as effective indoors.
“The long, arching leaves with white streaks add a touch of elegance to any garden setting. Not only are they non-toxic to dogs, but spider plants are incredibly low-maintenance, making them a great choice for both seasoned gardeners and beginners alike.”
So “whether you place them in pots on your patio or use them as hanging basket features, spider plants are a stylish, safe option”, she added.
4. Camellias
Camellias, with their elegant, rose-like flowers, bring a touch of sophistication to any garden. These pet-safe shrubs thrive in partial shade and make stunning focal points. Especially appreciated during the cooler months when other plants may lie dormant, camellias provide year-round colour and visual appeal.
As well as being safe for pets, they’re also relatively low-maintenance and adaptable, making them a practical choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
5. Roses
Roses might have a thorny reputation, but the flowers themselves are surprisingly safe for dogs. With their classic beauty and wide variety of colours, they’re a great way to brighten up your garden without posing a risk to your pets.
Roses come in all sorts of varieties and colours, from soft pinks to deep reds, and they don’t just look good — they smell amazing too. Whether planted in a sunny spot or trained to climb up a trellis, they add classic charm to any garden and are perfectly safe for dogs.
While all of these plants are considered safe for dogs, consuming them in large amounts may lead to mild digestive upset. As with anything, moderation is key.
