Is Valentine Bleeding Heart toxic to dogs?

Yes — valentine bleeding heart is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos/Dicentra) is recognised as toxic to cats and dogs; all parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids. Reported signs include trembling, staggering, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, with larger ingestions risking more serious effects. The sap may also irritate skin — keep away from pets and wear gloves when handling.

Bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos/Dicentra) is recognised as toxic to cats and dogs; all parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids. Reported signs include trembling, staggering, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, with larger ingestions risking more serious effects. The sap may also irritate skin — keep away from pets and wear gloves when handling. 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 valentine bleeding heart.

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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK 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: Valentine Bleeding Heart is toxic to cats as well. See the full valentine bleeding heart 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.