15 hazards to avoid for a dog-friendly garden

1. Compost

Compost is usually full of mouldy food and garden waste. Some of this can produce mycotoxins, which are highly dangerous to dogs. Mycotoxicosis, which is poisoning by products contaminated by fungi, can be fatal. Always keep compost out of reach and seek urgent veterinary advice if you suspect your dog has raided the compost bin.

2. Fertilisers

Fertilisers come in granular, solid and liquid form. While most aren’t hazardous, some can cause sickness and diarrhoea if swallowed or irritate your dog’s skin if brushed against. Products with additives such as insecticides are often the most dangerous.

3. Weed killer

Many weed killers contain glyphosate, which can be dangerous if swallowed, licked or brushed against. Dogs that consume a significant amount may suffer from breathing problems, heart rate issues, and convulsions. If you plan to use weed killer, make sure your dog is safely inside to avoid any problems.

4. Conkers

Conkers contain a toxin called aesculin, which is found in all parts of the horse chestnut tree, including the leaves. While dogs normally need to ingest several to suffer severe poisoning, our emergency vets regularly see cases of conker poisoning in dogs during autumn.

5. Acorns

Cases of acorn poisoning in dogs are common in autumn and winter. The toxic ingredient in acorns is thought to be tannic acid, which can cause damage to the liver and kidneys.

6. Insecticides and pesticides

Insecticides and pesticides are typically used to control garden pests, but many contain dangerous chemicals such as disulfoton, which is highly toxic to dogs. Ensure that you dispose of any old products, metaldehyde which is also highly toxic to dogs has been banned for several years however it may still be found in old products hidden at the back of the garden shed. Read the instructions carefully and don’t use them if there’s a potential risk to your pet.

7. Lawn feed, moss killer and iron sulphate

These products usually include fertilisers, weed killers or ferrous sulphate (iron), which kills moss. All of these can harm your dog’s skin or cause gastrointestinal problems. Those that contain iron may also cause iron poisoning.

Is iron sulphate harmful to dogs?

Yes. Iron sulphate is the active ingredient in many moss killers and lawn treatments. If ingested it can cause gastrointestinal problems and in larger amounts may lead to iron poisoning. If you suspect your dog has ingested any lawn treatment or moss killer product, contact your vet immediately.

8. Daffodil, lily and spring crocus bulbs

Several popular garden plants are poisonous to dogs, but the bulbs often pose the greatest risk. Daffodil, lily, and spring crocus bulbs are all highly toxic. Symptoms of plant or bulb poisoning can include vomiting, upset stomach and heart and kidney problems.

9. Mushrooms and toadstools

While some mushrooms are edible, others are highly toxic and it is often difficult to tell which is which. Symptoms of eating poisonous fungi can vary dramatically but may include sickness, hallucinations and even kidney or liver failure.

10. Cocoa mulch

Cocoa mulch contains theobromine, the same poisonous ingredient found in chocolate. It has similar properties to caffeine and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle tremors, seizures and elevated heart rate. There have been several cases of dogs falling ill after eating cocoa mulch.

11. Stones from prunus species

The stones and pits of plums, cherries, apricots and peaches contain cyanide and are dangerous if crushed or broken before being eaten. The stems and leaves can also be toxic. Larger stones can also cause obstructions if swallowed whole.

12. Slug and snail pellets

Metaldehyde-based slug and snail pellets, are among the most dangerous poisoning cases our vets see. Ingestion can cause severe poisoning and signs often occur within an hour. . Metaldehyde was banned several years ago but you may still have some old partially used containers that include it, please check all packages carefully.

13. Toads

Toads produce venom through their skin when under attack and toad venom poisoning can be fatal if left untreated. The toxins can cause dogs to foam at the mouth, vomit and show signs of distress such as pawing at the mouth and eyes. If your dog picks up or mouths a toad, rinse their mouth out thoroughly without letting them swallow the water, then contact your vet for further advice.

14. Mouldy bird food

Bird food that has been ignored and turned mouldy, such as fat balls or bread, can contain mycotoxins which are highly dangerous to dogs. Keep bird feeders and fallen food out of reach of your dog.

15. Food waste bins

If you keep a food recycling caddy in the garden, be aware it can also contain potentially poisonous mouldy food. Always keep food waste well out of reach of dogs and seek urgent veterinary advice if you suspect your dog has eaten mouldy food or raided the food recycling bin.

Dog-proofing your garden

Raised beds and clearly designed pathways help to keep dogs out of flower beds and protect more delicate plants. For areas where dogs will be letting off steam, choose hardy plants or shrubs that can withstand a bit of battering.

Ensure fencing is secure with no gaps or holes to prevent escape. If your dog is a digger, give them a designated area where it is acceptable to dig and encourage them to use it by hiding toys or treats there.

What to do if your dog has been poisoned

If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, telephone your vet immediately or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now clinic. Always bring a sample or label of the suspected substance to help with diagnosis and treatment.