Is Daphne mezereum toxic to dogs?

Yes — daphne mezereum is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Daphne as toxic to dogs and cats, and Daphne mezereum is one of the most poisonous species. All parts, especially the scarlet berries, contain mezerein and daphnetoxin, causing severe blistering of the mouth, drooling, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain and weakness. As few as a handful of berries can be fatal; seek emergency veterinary care.

ASPCA lists Daphne as toxic to dogs and cats, and Daphne mezereum is one of the most poisonous species. All parts, especially the scarlet berries, contain mezerein and daphnetoxin, causing severe blistering of the mouth, drooling, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain and weakness. As few as a handful of berries can be fatal; seek emergency veterinary care. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your dog has had access to daphne mezereum.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Daphne mezereum is toxic to cats as well. See the full daphne mezereum pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.