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
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
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?
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Take a photo of the plant or bring a piece in a plastic bag.
- 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.