Pet emergency
My dog ate Colorado Blue Spruce — what to do
Step by step
- Take colorado blue spruce away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My dog ate colorado blue spruce — FAQ
Is colorado blue spruce poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens) as mildly toxic to dogs. Picea pungens is not listed as a toxic plant by ASPCA. However, the sharp, stiff needles can cause physical injury to pets' mouths and digestive tracts if chewed, and resinous compounds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Not considered a significant poisoning risk but ingestion of needles or cones is not recommended for cats, dogs, or horses.
How serious is it if my dog ate colorado blue spruce?
Colorado Blue Spruce is mildly toxic, so most dogs get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your dog ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Picea pungens is not listed as a toxic plant by ASPCA. However, the sharp, stiff needles can cause physical injury to pets' mouths and digestive tracts if chewed, and resinous compounds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Not considered a significant poisoning risk but ingestion of needles or cones is not recommended for cats, dogs, or horses. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my dog vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep colorado blue spruce well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is colorado blue spruce toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Colorado Blue Spruce and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide