Hazardous Trees for Dogs

When planning a dog-friendly yard or taking your pup on outdoor adventures, trees might not be the first hazard that comes to mind. But did you know that many common trees—found in backyards, parks, and along sidewalks—can pose serious health risks to dogs? From toxic leaves and seeds to hidden dangers like cyanide-containing pits, it’s crucial to recognize which trees can be harmful and how to keep your pups safe. In this post, we’ll cover the most common hazardous trees, what parts to watch out for, and safer alternatives for a pet-friendly landscape.

You may also be interested in these posts: Plant Toxicity in Dogs, Dog-Safe Gardening: Veggies and Herbs to Keep Out of Reach, Which Houseplants Are Unsafe for Dogs?

Trees That Can Be Hazardous to Dogs

(Toxic or risky parts noted)

1. Sago Palm (often tree-like in appearance)

• Hazard: All parts, especially seeds
• Extremely toxic and potentially fatal (even small amounts)

2. Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)

• Hazard: Nuts (especially moldy ones), bark, wood
• Can cause tremors and seizures due to a toxin in decaying nuts

3. Oak Trees (Quercus spp.)

• Hazard: Acorns and young leaves
• Contains tannins that can cause kidney and GI issues if consumed in large quantities

4. Cherry Trees (Prunus spp.)

• Hazard: Leaves, bark, and pits
• Contain cyanogenic glycosides that can cause cyanide poisoning when ingested

5. Apple Trees (Malus domestica)

• Hazard: Seeds (inside the core), stems, leaves
• Contain cyanide compounds (a risk in large amounts or when chewed)

6. Peach and Plum Trees (Prunus spp.)

• Hazard: Pits, leaves, stems
• Pits can be a choking hazard and contain cyanide compounds

7. Horse Chestnut / Buckeye (Aesculus spp.)

• Hazard: Nuts (conkers), leaves, bark
• Contains aesculin, which is toxic and causes vomiting, tremors, and more

8. Yew Trees (Taxus spp.)

• Hazard: All parts, especially berries
• Extremely toxic—ingestion can be fatal

9. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

• Hazard: Leaves (especially wilted ones)
• More dangerous to horses, but can cause toxicity in dogs in rare cases

10. Mulberry Trees (Morus spp.)

• Hazard: Unripe berries, leaves
• May cause hallucinations or GI upset in some dogs

11. Macadamia Nut Tree (Macadamia integrifolia)

• Hazard: Nuts
• Even a small amount can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting

Know the Symptoms of Plant Toxicity in Dogs

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling or excessive salivation
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Pawing at the mouth or face (from irritation or burning)
• Trouble breathing or coughing
• Increased heart rate
• Dilated pupils
• Tremors, seizures, or uncoordinated movement
• Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat
• Skin irritation or rashes (from contact with certain plants)

What to Do If You Think Your Dog Has Ingested a Toxic Plant:

1. Stay calm – Panic can stress your dog more.
2. Remove your dog from the source of the toxin.
3. Call your veterinarian, Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661), or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).
4. Provide details: What your dog ate, how much, and when.

If you have a GDB dog or you are a GDB client and you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant, please contact your emergency vet and then reach out to our Support Center at 800.295.4050 for more information or assistance.