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Is Snake's Head Iris toxic to dogs?

Hermodactylus tuberosus

Toxic to dogs

Yes — snake's head iris is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Hermodactylus tuberosus is closely related to Iris and sits in the family Iridaceae. The ASPCA lists Iris species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with the toxic principles being pentacyclic terpenoids (irisin, iridin, and irisine), which are most concentrated in the rhizomes and tubers. Clinical signs include salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea; skin irritation may also occur on contact with the sap.

What to do if your dog ate snake's head iris

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move snake's head iris out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of snake's head iris to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has eaten snake's head iris, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is snake's head iris toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is snake's head iris toxic to dogs?

Yes — snake's head iris is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Hermodactylus tuberosus is closely related to Iris and sits in the family Iridaceae. The ASPCA lists Iris species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with the toxic principles being pentacyclic terpenoids (irisin, iridin, and irisine), which are most concentrated in the rhizomes and tubers. Clinical signs include salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea; skin irritation may also occur on contact with the sap.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats snake's head iris?

Hermodactylus tuberosus is closely related to Iris and sits in the family Iridaceae. The ASPCA lists Iris species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with the toxic principles being pentacyclic terpenoids (irisin, iridin, and irisine), which are most concentrated in the rhizomes and tubers. Clinical signs include salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea; skin irritation may also occur on contact with the sap. 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 snake's head iris.

What should I do if my dog ate snake's head iris?

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.

Is snake's head iris toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Snake's Head Iris is toxic to cats as well. See the full snake's head iris pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to snake's head iris?

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.

Full snake's head iris pet-safety