Is Staggerbush toxic to dogs?

Yes — staggerbush is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All parts — leaves, stems, nectar, and flowers — contain grayanotoxins (andromedotoxins), the same class found across Ericaceae. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, low blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, and paralysis in livestock, dogs, and cats. The common name 'Staggerbush' refers to the staggering gait seen in poisoned sheep and cattle. Keep pets away from all plant material.

All parts — leaves, stems, nectar, and flowers — contain grayanotoxins (andromedotoxins), the same class found across Ericaceae. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, low blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, and paralysis in livestock, dogs, and cats. The common name 'Staggerbush' refers to the staggering gait seen in poisoned sheep and cattle. Keep pets away from all plant material. 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 staggerbush.

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: Staggerbush is toxic to cats as well. See the full staggerbush 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.