Is Larkspur Toxic to Dogs?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Severe

✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

Yes, larkspur is severely toxic to dogs. Its alkaloids interfere with nerve signaling and can lead to muscle weakness and breathing failure.

Also known as: Delphinium, Candle Delphinium, Delphinium elatum · Delphinium elatum

What makes it toxic

Diterpenoid alkaloids such as delphinine and methyllycaconitine, which block neuromuscular transmission. Young plants and seeds are the most concentrated sources.

Warning signs to watch for

Excessive drooling, vomiting, constipation, wobbliness, tremors, muscle weakness, seizures and labored breathing. Signs can progress quickly from mild stomach upset to paralysis.

What to do if your dog eats it

Go to a vet or emergency clinic immediately if your dog chewed larkspur, even without symptoms yet. Bring a plant sample and tell the vet roughly how much and which part was eaten.

Common questions

Can a dog survive larkspur poisoning?

Yes, with fast veterinary treatment — supportive care, airway support and medications can save the dog. Delayed treatment makes breathing failure the main cause of death.

Are larkspur seeds more toxic than the flowers?

Seeds and new spring growth are the most concentrated parts. A dog cracking open seed pods in late summer is at particular risk.

How long after eating larkspur do symptoms start?

Usually within one to a few hours. Because the window can be short, contact a vet the moment you know the plant was eaten.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals tha Aloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain co Spider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk of Easter Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal ki Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untre Boston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs. Chewing a frond will not poison your dog.

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.