Making Your Garden Dog Friendly

​As dog owners we want to ensure that our gardens are safe for our four legged friends. When creating our gardens we are sometimes unaware that they could be toxic to our pets.  Pet friendly gardens tend to have an organic approach, making them safer and healthier. Before going out and buying seeds or plants, let’s make sure you are planting a dog friendly garden.

Common Weeds & Plants That Are Harmful To Dogs

​There are a lot of plants that can be harmful to our pets and it is always wise to check online before purchasing. Listed below are some common weeds and plants found in the garden that can cause allergies or toxicity to your pets:

• Avocado Tree
• Bulbs 
• Cycads
• Cyclamen
• Foxglove
• Holly
• Hydrangea
• Ivy  
• Macadamia Nut Tree 
• Most lilies are toxic garden plants to cats only
• Nightshade
• Oleander
• Onions
• Paspalum 
• Rhododendron 
• Tomato Plant (green parts only)
• Wandering Jew  

The AEC (Animal Emergency Centre) has produced a chart that you can download or print for reference, listing Common Plants Toxic to Dogs and Cats. Check your garden today! 

Fertilizers, Herbicides, Insecticides and Baits​

​It is important to store any fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides or baits out of reach of your pets as these can be toxic. When using, keep your dogs out of the garden and make sure you read the labels. The label will include instructions and ensure the safety of your pets when using the product. If you are unsure then consult your veterinarian. 

Why Do Dogs Eat Plants?

Not all dogs eat plants but here some common reasons why some dogs do:

• Chew plants out of boredom
• Puppies tend to want to be destructive
• Plants can sometimes look appetizing to dogs
• Dogs can see a new plant as something new to play with
• Dogs can just be curious

No matter why your dog is chewing plants, it is up to dog owners to ensure they are safe and not exposed to any toxic plants within our gardens.

Common Symptoms Associated with Toxic Dog Plants

Most of us know when our four legged friends are not feeling well and toxic plants can cause minor to more severe symptoms. Listed here are some of the common symptoms related to toxic plants:

• Diarrhoea  
• Discoloration of the skin
• Drooling
• Loss of Appetite
• Rapid breathing
• Staggering
• Swollen mouth
• Trouble swallowing
• Vomiting

If you think your dog or pet is sick from ingesting a poisonous substance, contact your veterinarian immediately. 

Planning Your Dog Friendly Garden

When planning your garden, make sure you select plants that are safe for your dog and avoid plants that are toxic or irritable. Some dogs love digging and there are bulbs like hyacinths, tulips, daffodils and some lilies that can be fatal.  Some plants are fine and it’s only the fruits and berries that are poisonous, although there are also some grasses and weeds that can cause allergic reactions like itching, sneezing and bad rashes.

Familiarise yourself with what plants you have in your garden, or if planning a new one - check that the plants are safe for your pets before purchasing them. There is a great Australian book out called
“Poisonous2pets by Nicole O’Kane”  that details all of the common plants and their toxicity along with great photos to help you identify the plant itself.

You also need to be aware of plants with thorns, spikes or hard sharp branches and where they are planted. If they are poorly positioned dogs may run into them or run past and injure themselves. 

Features of a Dog Friendly Garden

To keep our dogs happy and healthy, here is a list of dog friendly features for the garden:

• Pet friendly plants
• Somewhere to run and play
• Shady areas for a cooler place for your dog to relax
• Sandbox for the dogs that love to dig 
• Your pet’s favourite toys to play with
• Shelter and bedding
• Supply of fresh water
• Secure fencing to keep your dog in their yard
• If your garden has steps make sure they are secure and not wobbly
• Block access to areas where you don’t want your dog to go
• You! as your pet loves to have someone to play with, make sure it’s a garden you want to spend time in and enjoy.