I like having plants in the house, but once I had a dog, I stopped buying certain ones. Not because they are rare or exotic, but because they are common, easy to find, and quietly dangerous for pets.
This is not about panic. It is about knowing which plants are not worth the risk when a dog lives in the same space.
Sago Palm
This is the first plant I ruled out.
Every part of the sago palm is toxic to dogs, especially the seeds. Even small exposure can cause vomiting, liver failure, or worse. It is often sold as a decorative indoor plant, which makes it easy to underestimate.
I do not keep this plant in the house or in the yard.
Lilies
Many people associate lilies with cats, but dogs are also affected.
In dogs, lilies can cause stomach upset, drooling, and lethargy. Some varieties are more toxic than others, but the problem is that most people do not know which type they have.
If a plant requires identification to be safe, I skip it.
Aloe Vera
Aloe is often marketed as helpful and natural, which makes it misleading in homes with pets.
When dogs chew aloe leaves, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. I stopped keeping aloe on low shelves or window sills where a curious dog could reach it.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
This plant looks harmless, but it causes immediate irritation when chewed.
Dogs that bite into dieffenbachia can experience mouth swelling, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Even a single bite can cause a strong reaction.
I avoid plants that cause instant distress rather than mild symptoms.
Snake Plant
Snake plants are popular because they survive almost anything.
They are also toxic to dogs if ingested. Symptoms usually include nausea and vomiting. While reactions are often mild, I do not rely on “usually” when it comes to pets.
I replaced snake plants with non-toxic alternatives that give the same upright look.
Pothos
Pothos is one of the most common houseplants, and one of the easiest for dogs to reach.
Chewing the leaves can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and stomach upset. Hanging planters reduce risk, but falling vines still attract attention.
I stopped bringing pothos into the house once I noticed how often dogs target trailing plants.
Why I Avoid “High Shelf” Plants
I used to think placing plants out of reach solved the problem. It does not.
Dogs knock things over. Leaves fall. Some dogs jump. Others chew whatever hits the floor. I now treat the house as one shared environment instead of separate zones.
If a plant is toxic, I do not bring it inside at all.
What I Choose Instead
I stick to plants that are widely considered safer for dogs, even if they get chewed.
I also:
- Place plants where soil is not accessible
- Avoid trailing leaves at floor level
- Watch how my dog interacts with new objects
Plants should add calm to a space, not risk.
Bottom Line
If you live with a dog, houseplants are a design choice and a safety decision.
I avoid plants that are common, toxic, and easy to reach. There are enough pet-friendly options that I do not feel like I am giving anything up. I am just choosing differently.