Yes, foxglove is highly toxic to dogs
Foxglove is the plant the heart drug digoxin was originally made from. It contains cardiac glycosides that can cause fatal heart rhythm problems in cats and dogs.
Foxglove and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Highly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Highly toxic |
| Scientific name | Digitalis purpurea |
| Also called | digitalis |
| Toxic compound | Cardiac glycosides |
| Toxic parts | All parts, including the flowers, seeds and vase water |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Garden plant |
Symptoms of foxglove poisoning in dogs
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Drooling
- Abnormal heart rhythm (slow or irregular)
- Weakness and collapse
- Death
Why foxglove is toxic to dogs
Cardiac glycosides work like an overdose of the heart drug digoxin. They block a pump that heart cells need to control their rhythm, which can cause a dangerously slow or irregular heartbeat, high blood potassium and sudden collapse. The toxin is present in every part of the plant and in water the plant has stood in.
What to do if your dog ate foxglove
- 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 diarrhea, drooling, abnormal heart rhythm. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
This is an emergency. Vets decontaminate (vomiting and activated charcoal, often repeated), give IV fluids, monitor the heart with an ECG, and treat arrhythmias. Digoxin-specific antibody fragments are used in severe cases.
How to keep your dog away from foxglove
- Place foxglove 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 foxglove
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.
Foxglove and dogs: FAQ
Is foxglove poisonous to dogs?
Foxglove is highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal. If your dog ate any part of this plant, treat it as an emergency.
What part of foxglove is toxic to dogs?
All parts, including the flowers, seeds and vase water.
Can dogs die from eating foxglove?
Yes. Foxglove can be fatal to dogs, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.
How long after eating foxglove will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Is foxglove toxic to cats too?
Yes, foxglove is highly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly 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.