Is Oleander Toxic to Dogs? Yes, Highly: Emergency Signs

Highly toxic

Yes, oleander is highly toxic to dogs

Oleander is one of the most poisonous garden plants. It contains cardiac glycosides that act like a digoxin overdose on the heart. Even small amounts of leaf can be fatal, and drying does not reduce the toxicity.

If your dog ate or touched oleander: go to an emergency vet now or call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Do not wait for symptoms.

Oleander and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Highly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Highly toxic
Scientific name	Nerium oleander
Also called	rose bay
Toxic compound	Cardiac glycosides
Toxic parts	All parts, including dried leaves and water the plant has been in
Signs usually start	Usually within a few hours
Plant type	Garden plant

Symptoms of oleander poisoning in dogs

Vomiting and drooling
Diarrhea
Very slow or irregular heartbeat
Weakness and collapse
Tremors
Death

Why oleander 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 oleander

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, very slow or irregular heartbeat. 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 oleander

Place oleander 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 oleander

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

See the full list of plants safe for dogs.

Oleander and dogs: FAQ

Is oleander poisonous to dogs?

Oleander 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 oleander is toxic to dogs?

All parts, including dried leaves and water the plant has been in.

Can dogs die from eating oleander?

Yes. Oleander can be fatal to dogs, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.

How long after eating oleander will my dog show symptoms?

Usually within a few hours.

Is oleander toxic to cats too?

Yes, oleander is highly 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.

Is Oleander Toxic to Dogs?