Is Hosta toxic to dogs?

Yes — hosta is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Toxic. The ASPCA lists Hosta (Hosta plantaginea, family Liliaceae) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses; the toxic principle is saponins, and the reported clinical signs — vomiting, diarrhoea and depression — are usually mild and self-limiting. North Carolina State Extension likewise states all parts of the plant are toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Keep grazing or nibbling pets away from plantings, and contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 if a large amount is eaten or signs persist.

Toxic. The ASPCA lists Hosta (Hosta plantaginea, family Liliaceae) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses; the toxic principle is saponins, and the reported clinical signs — vomiting, diarrhoea and depression — are usually mild and self-limiting. North Carolina State Extension likewise states all parts of the plant are toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Keep grazing or nibbling pets away from plantings, and contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 if a large amount is eaten or signs persist. 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 hosta.

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: Hosta is toxic to cats as well. See the full hosta 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.