Are Hostas Toxic to Dogs? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, hostas are mildly toxic to dogs

Hostas contain saponins and are a common cause of stomach upset in dogs that graze in shady garden beds.

Hostas and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Hosta plantaginea
Also called	plantain lily, funkia
Toxic compound	Saponins
Toxic parts	All parts
Signs usually start	Usually within a few hours
Plant type	Garden plant

Symptoms of hostas poisoning in dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Depression

Why hostas are toxic to dogs

Saponins are soap-like compounds that irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. They are poorly absorbed, so the effects are mostly limited to vomiting, drooling and diarrhea.

What to do if your dog ate hostas

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 your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
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, diarrhea, depression. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

Signs are usually mild and self-limiting. A vet may give anti-nausea medicine and fluids if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent, or if a small or young pet becomes dehydrated.

How to keep your dog away from hostas

Place hostas 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 hostas

If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for dogs.

Hostas and dogs: FAQ

Are hostas poisonous to dogs?

Hostas are mildly toxic to dogs. Saponins can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of hostas is toxic to dogs?

All parts.

Can dogs die from eating hostas?

It is very unlikely. Hostas usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating hostas will my dog show symptoms?

Usually within a few hours.

Are hostas toxic to cats too?

Yes, hostas are mildly toxic to cats.

Other plants toxic to dogs

Sources

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.

Are Hostas Toxic to Dogs?