Yes, azaleas are highly toxic to dogs
Azaleas and rhododendrons contain grayanotoxins, which interfere with sodium channels in heart and muscle cells. Eating as little as 0.2% of body weight in leaves can cause serious poisoning.
Azaleas and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Highly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Highly toxic |
| Scientific name | Rhododendron spp. |
| Also called | rhododendron, rosebay |
| Toxic compound | Grayanotoxins |
| Toxic parts | All parts, including the nectar |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Garden plant |
Symptoms of azaleas poisoning in dogs
- Vomiting and drooling
- Diarrhea
- Weakness and collapse
- Low blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Tremors, seizures or coma
Why azaleas are toxic to dogs
Grayanotoxins keep sodium channels in heart, nerve and muscle cells open. This causes vomiting and drooling at first, then weakness, low blood pressure, a slow or irregular heartbeat, and in severe cases coma or death.
What to do if your dog ate azaleas
- Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately, even if your dog seems normal: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Signs can be delayed while damage is happening.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
- Watch for vomiting and drooling, diarrhea, weakness and collapse. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
This is an emergency. Treatment includes decontamination, IV fluids, heart monitoring and medicines to support heart rate and blood pressure. Most pets recover with prompt care.
How to keep your dog away from azaleas
- Place azaleas on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
- In the garden, fence off beds, supervise dogs that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.
Pet-safe alternatives to azaleas
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:
- LilacsNon-toxic
- LiliesNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for dogs.
Azaleas and dogs: FAQ
Are azaleas poisonous to dogs?
Azaleas are highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal. If your dog ate any part of these plants, treat it as an emergency.
What part of azaleas is toxic to dogs?
All parts, including the nectar.
Can dogs die from eating azaleas?
Yes. Azaleas can be fatal to dogs, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.
How long after eating azaleas will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are azaleas toxic to cats too?
Yes, azaleas are highly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
- FoxgloveHighly toxic
- Lily of the ValleyHighly toxic
- YewHighly toxic
- Autumn CrocusHighly toxic
- DaffodilsToxic
- MistletoeToxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.