Your garden is a sanctuary for both you and your furry companions, but ensuring their safety is crucial. Dogs are known to be curious about their surroundings, often exploring plants by sniffing, digging, or even tasting. Unfortunately, not all garden plants are safe for dogs as some can be toxic if ingested. However, there are many beautiful plants that are completely safe for dogs and can enhance the beauty of your garden. Here’s a curated list of 15 dog-friendly plants that will help you maintain a beautiful and safe garden.
Why Choose Dog-Friendly Plants?
Dog-friendly plants are important for a number of reasons. They allow you to create a lush and vibrant garden without compromising the safety of your beloved pets. While toxic plants can lead to illness if ingested, dog-friendly alternatives provide peace of mind and a welcoming environment for both your dogs and other garden visitors. Additionally, choosing safe plants minimizes the risk of garden accidents and allows dogs to safely explore their surroundings.
1. Catmint (Nepeta)
Despite its name, Catmint is safe for dogs as well. This long-blooming perennial offers fragrant foliage and colorful flowers that can withstand a dog’s curiosity without harm. Its strong stems make it resilient even when disturbed by playful pups.
2. Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia)
Crapemyrtle adds a dramatic flair to any garden with its vibrant flowers and colorful foliage. It’s non-toxic to dogs, making it a great choice for areas where dogs may nibble or explore.
3. Bluebeard (Caryopteris)
Bluebeard is a durable, low-maintenance perennial that attracts pollinators and adds a whimsical texture to your landscape. Its long-blooming flowers are non-toxic to dogs and resilient enough to handle some foot traffic.
4. Perennial Hibiscus (Hibiscus)
This hardy perennial boasts vivid blooms and is pollinator-friendly. It’s safe for dogs and adds a splash of color to the summer garden.
5. Aster
Aster plants are low-growing, native perennials with bright, daisy-like blooms that add a splash of color to late summer through fall. They can handle both foot and paw traffic, making them an excellent choice for your garden.
6. Tickseed (Coreopsis)
Tickseed is known for its vibrant, non-stop blooms. It adds a pop of color to the garden without attracting ticks, and its seeds resemble bugs but are completely safe for dogs.
7. Camellia (Camellia)
Camellia flowers add a burst of color late in the season, making them perfect for brightening up the garden as temperatures drop. They are non-toxic and hardy, able to withstand various weather conditions.
8. Russian Sage (Perovskia)
Russian Sage is a tough, semi-woody perennial with blue-purple flowers that can withstand heat, drought, and even some dog play. It’s a great accent plant for tough garden spots.
9. Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)
Long-blooming Baby’s Breath is not toxic to dogs and makes a charming addition to any cut-flower garden. Its delicate blooms add a soft, airy feel to your garden design.
10. Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
Creeping Phlox is a durable ground cover with springtime flowers that can thrive in challenging sites like slopes and rocky areas. It’s non-toxic and perfect for enhancing garden borders.
11. Forsythia (Forsythia)
Forsythia is a robust, non-toxic landscape plant that brightens up the garden with its cheerful spring blooms. It’s perfect for adding color and is safe if your dog nibbles on fallen flowers.
12. Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Coral Bells feature colorful foliage that lasts from spring to fall. All parts of the plant are non-toxic, though it’s best to plant it in pots to prevent trampling.
13. Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria)
Peruvian Lilies add contrast and interest to garden beds with little maintenance. They’re safe for dogs and attract pollinators.
14. Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)
This deer-resistant and dog-friendly plant can be used as a hedge or accent. It’s perfect for sunny spots in the garden.
15. Roses (Rosa)
Roses might have thorns, but they are safe for dogs. Plant them strategically as barriers to protect other garden areas.
Other Safe Plants for Your Dogs
Beyond the list above, there are other dog-friendly plants that add curb appeal to your garden. These include hollyhock, globe thistle, and red hot poker, which all provide versatility and vibrancy while being safe for dogs.
Why Are Dog-Friendly Plants Important?
Choosing dog-friendly plants is just one step in creating a safe and enjoyable garden for your pets. It’s also important to choose safe mulches, such as cedar, pine, or hemlock, to avoid harmful cocoa bean mulch. Avoid using dangerous chemicals like fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides in areas accessible to dogs. Always keep an eye on your garden and consult your vet if you suspect your dog has ingested anything harmful.
Great Garden Plants emphasizes that ornamental plants should not be consumed by pets, children, or adults. Safety should always come first when designing your garden layout.
