Yes, hydrangeas are mildly toxic to dogs
Hydrangeas contain cyanogenic glycosides. In pets, poisoning usually causes stomach upset only; the large amounts needed for cyanide-like effects are rarely eaten.
Hydrangeas and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Hydrangea arborescens and macrophylla |
| Also called | hortensia, seven bark |
| Toxic compound | Cyanogenic glycosides |
| Toxic parts | Leaves, buds and flowers |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Garden plant |
Symptoms of hydrangeas poisoning in dogs
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Depression
Why hydrangeas are toxic to dogs
These glycosides can release cyanide when the plant is chewed and digested. In practice pets eat too little for cyanide poisoning, so the usual result is stomach upset.
What to do if your dog ate hydrangeas
- 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
Supportive care for vomiting and diarrhea is usually all that is needed. See a vet urgently if your pet has trouble breathing, bright red gums or collapses.
How to keep your dog away from hydrangeas
- Place hydrangeas 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 hydrangeas
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.
Hydrangeas and dogs: FAQ
Are hydrangeas poisonous to dogs?
Hydrangeas are mildly toxic to dogs. Cyanogenic glycosides can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of hydrangeas is toxic to dogs?
Leaves, buds and flowers.
Can dogs die from eating hydrangeas?
It is very unlikely. Hydrangeas 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 hydrangeas will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are hydrangeas toxic to cats too?
Yes, hydrangeas are mildly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly toxic
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.