Is dieffenbachia toxic to dogs?

Updated 29/09/2023

With many of us pet parents also proudly naming ourselves plant parents, the greenery in our home is on the rise. Adding a splash of color in every corner and the satisfaction we get from helping plants flourish, it’s no wonder that the yellow-green leaves of dieffenbachia are popular amongst us. This might have you wondering though – is dieffenbachia toxic to dogs, or is it a safe choice for your curious canine to inspect? Let’s find out below.

Is dieffenbachia toxic to dogs?

Yes, dieffenbachia is poisonous to dogs – it can cause allergic reactions and severe symptoms of toxicity if your pup touches the plant or ingests it. Why? Well, the plant contains toxic insoluble oxalate crystals and irritants that can cause fatalities in our furry friends if enough of the stuff is eaten. When chewed and swallowed, the plant matter releases enzymes and sharp crystals which then embed themselves into the mouth, tongue and throat. If you think your pup has been playing with your dieffenbachia plant, you should wash the affected area with soap and water immediately and get advice from your vet. If you suspect your pup has taken a nibble on the plant, you should get to your vet as a matter of emergency.

Dieffenbachia poisoning in dogs

Now we’ve established that dieffenbachia isn’t safe for dogs to be around, let’s take a look at  dieffenbachia poisoning in more detail. We’ll start by exploring the symptoms of oral, ocular and topical poisoning, then the methods of diagnosis and the treatments your vet may administer. And an important note before we get started: if your pup has ingested dieffenbachia, get them to a vet as a matter of emergency - don’t wait for the symptoms to start.

Symptoms of oral poisoning

• Swelling of the lips or face
• Difficulty eating and drinking
• Pawing at the face and mouth
• Restlessness
• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Panting
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Agitation
• Gasping for breath
• Unconsciousness
• Death

Symptoms of eye exposure

• Pawing at the face and eyes
• Head rubbing
• Itching, redness and swelling around the eyes

Symptoms of skin exposure

• Blisters
• Redness, swelling and itching

Diagnosis

As there are different types of dieffenbachia (dumbcane, leopard lily, and mother-in-law’s tongue), it will be useful for your vet if you’re able to bring a sample along with you - this will help to speed up the process of diagnosing your poorly pup. To narrow down the cause of the dog’s symptoms, your vet is likely to perform an oral and eye examination, plus they may assess their blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, reflexes and weight. Blood tests and a urinalysis may also be taken to assess your pup, along with x-rays, ultrasounds or CT scans if deemed necessary to rule out other possible causes of ill health (imaging is not usually necessary if it is clear your pup has been exposed to the plant).

Treatments

If your pup has ingested dieffenbachia and is suffering with oral and digestive system upset, their mouth may need to be flushed clean to remove remaining plant matter, either with lots of water or sometimes with ice chips. Painkillers are often needed to ease discomfort, along with medications to protect the gastrointestinal system. 

If it’s eye exposure they’re suffering from, the area will be cleaned with saline solution and topical eye medication to reduce itching and pain. 

And finally, if your pup’s skin has been irritated by the plant, you’ll probably be advised to wash the area with warm, soapy water, and they may be prescribed cream to treat the area.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

Other plants that are poisonous to dogs

So we can all agree that leopard lily, mother-in-law’s tongue, and dumb cane and dogs aren’t exactly a match made in doggy heaven. So like any responsible pet parent, remove the plants poisonous to dogs from your home to keep your beloved furry family member safe from harm.

• Iris 
• Lily of the valley
• Oleander
• Dracaena
• Ivy
• Philodendron