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ToxicEmergency

Is yew toxic to dogs? Yes: highly toxic

Highly toxic. All parts of yew except the red berry flesh can cause sudden heart failure; the seeds inside the berries are very toxic.

If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now

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Yew and dogs: key facts

Verdict
Toxic · Emergency: get help now
What it can do
Vomiting, diarrhea, heavy drooling, muscle tremors and trouble breathing. All 8
How fast
Can be sudden
What to do now
Call your vet or a pet poison line now. All steps
Sources
ASPCA Animal Poison Control, Pet Poison Helpline, AKC. Reviewed 9 October 2026.

What should I do if my dog ate yew?

  1. Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
  2. Take a photo of the plant or bring a piece in a plastic bag.
  3. Get to a vet right away; yew can cause sudden heart failure.

Don't

  • Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Heavy drooling
  • Muscle tremors
  • Trouble breathing
  • Slow heart rate
  • Seizures
  • Sudden collapse or death

When signs appear: Can be sudden

Why

Yew contains taxines, poisons found throughout the plant that affect the heart. Any amount can be dangerous to a dog.

Sources

Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.

General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.