Five plants that could make your dog seriously ill this autumn
A pet insurance expert has warned dog owners about common autumn plants that could cause serious illness or even death if ingested by their pets.
Tom Sadler, Managing Director at pet insurance comparison site Pet Insurance Deals, said several seasonal plants and fallen fruits pose significant risks to curious dogs during autumn walks.
The warning comes as many pet owners may not recognise the dangers lurking in gardens, parks, and woodlands during the autumn months when certain toxic plants are most prevalent.
1. Autumn Crocus
“Autumn crocus contains colchicine which is highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe gastrointestinal upset,” Sadler explained. “Unlike spring crocus which are relatively mild in toxicity, the autumn variety can be lethal.”
The plant flowers between September and November in the UK, with purple, pink, or white blooms. Signs of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling and, in severe cases, organ damage.
Symptoms might take several days to appear, making it difficult for owners to connect them to plant ingestion. “By the time clinical signs appear, significant damage may have occurred,” said Sadler.
2. Acorns and Oak Leaves
“Acorns fall from oak trees in their thousands during autumn and contain tannic acid, which can damage the liver and kidneys of dogs,” Sadler pointed out. “Just a few acorns can make a small dog quite ill.”
Dogs that consume acorns might show signs of abdominal pain, lack of appetite, or vomiting. In more serious cases, they can develop kidney failure or have difficulty walking.
“The toxins in acorns can cause prolonged illness if not treated promptly. Many dogs find them irresistible to play with or chew, making them a common hazard on autumn walks,” he added.
3. Yew Trees and Berries
“Virtually all parts of the yew tree are toxic to dogs, but the bright red berries that appear in autumn are particularly dangerous as they might attract curious pets,” Sadler warned.
The taxine alkaloids in yew plants affect the heart, with ingestion potentially leading to cardiac failure. Initial symptoms include trembling, breathing difficulties, and vomiting.
“The seeds inside the berries contain the highest concentration of toxins, and sadly, severe poisoning can lead to sudden death with little warning,” said Sadler. “There is often no time to get veterinary help once symptoms appear.”
4. Conkers and Horse Chestnut Trees
“Conkers contain a chemical called aesculin which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and even result in respiratory issues if consumed by dogs,” Sadler explained.
Fallen conkers are common in parks and woodlands from September onwards, and their firm, round shape can also present a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed whole.
“While some dogs might just play with conkers, others will try to eat them. The large size means they can cause obstruction requiring surgery, while the toxins can lead to inflammation of the digestive tract,” Sadler noted.
5. Wild Mushrooms
“Autumn creates the perfect growing conditions for wild mushrooms, many of which can be toxic to dogs,” Sadler said. “The difficulty is that toxic varieties often grow alongside harmless ones, making it impossible for owners to know which are safe.”
Mushroom poisoning symptoms vary widely depending on the species ingested, from mild gastrointestinal upset to liver failure, kidney damage, or neurological symptoms.
“Some of the most dangerous mushrooms, like the death cap, are also among the most common in British woodlands during damp autumn months. Never let your dog sniff or eat wild mushrooms,” he advised.
What to Do If Your Dog Ingests a Toxic Plant
Sadler recommends that pet owners who suspect their dog has ingested a toxic plant should contact their vet immediately rather than wait for symptoms to develop.
“Quick action can make all the difference in cases of plant poisoning. Take photos of the plant if possible and bring any vomit with you to the vet as this can help identify the toxin,” he said.
Prevention Tips
Prevention remains the best approach, with Sadler suggesting owners keep gardens free from dangerous plants, supervise dogs closely during walks, and train a reliable ‘leave it’ command.
“Autumn should be an enjoyable season for dogs and their owners. With awareness of these common hazards, you can continue to enjoy woodland walks while keeping your pet safe,” Sadler concluded.
