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Is Philodendron Toxic to Dogs?

⚠️ Mildly ToxicSeverity: Mild
✅ 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.
Philodendron is mildly toxic to dogs. Chewing the leaves or vines causes immediate mouth pain and drooling, usually resolving within hours.

Also known as: Heartleaf Philodendron, Philodendron hederaceum · Philodendron hederaceum

What makes it toxic

Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals released from crushed plant tissue, piercing the lining of the mouth and digestive tract.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, lip smacking, pawing at the mouth, whining, vomiting and reluctance to eat or drink for a few hours.

What to do if your dog eats it

Rinse the dog’s mouth, clear away plant material and offer fresh water. Contact your vet if signs persist beyond a few hours or the dog cannot swallow.

Common questions

My puppy chews everything — how bad is philodendron for him?

Unpleasant but not deadly. The instant mouth pain usually stops puppies quickly; rinse the mouth and monitor the first hours.

Do the aerial roots contain crystals too?

Yes, all tissue does. A puppy yanking the vine off a shelf is at the same risk as one chewing a leaf.

Is philodendron the same as monstera?

They are relatives in the aroid family with identical crystals, and old labels even call monstera a split-leaf philodendron. Same mild risk profile.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals thaAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain coSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk ofEaster Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal kiSago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untreBoston 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.