Is Cocklebur Toxic to Dogs?
Also known as: Clotbur, Rough Cocklebur, Large Cocklebur · Xanthium strumarium
What makes it toxic
Carboxyatractyloside in the seeds and sprouting seedlings, which shuts down cellular energy production and causes acute hepatic injury and severe hypoglycemia. The spiny burs additionally damage the mouth and digestive tract.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, drooling, weakness and depression appearing within hours, then tremors, seizures, incoordination, jaundice and collapse as liver damage and hypoglycemia develop.
What to do if your dog eats it
This is a drop-everything emergency. Get the dog to a vet at once and say what was eaten — decontamination, IV fluids, glucose support and liver monitoring started early dramatically improve survival.
Common questions
My dog picked up burs on a hike — is that dangerous?
Burs tangled in fur are mostly a painful nuisance, but find and remove any, because a dog that chews a bur to free itself can swallow the toxic seed inside.
How much does it take to poison a dog?
A meaningful handful of seeds or a meal of young seedlings has caused fatal poisoning in livestock, and small dogs need far less. Treat any confirmed ingestion as urgent.
More plants checked for dogs
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.