Pupkeeper
Toxic

Is ZZ plant toxic to dogs? Yes: mildly toxic

Mildly toxic. ZZ plants contain crystals that irritate the mouth, causing drooling, pawing at the mouth and vomiting; lasting harm isn't expected.

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

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ZZ plant and dogs: key facts

Verdict
Toxic · Call your vet or a poison line
What it can do
Drooling, pawing at the mouth or head shaking, retching or vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhea.
What to do now
Call your vet or a pet poison line now. All steps
Sources
ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline. Reviewed 9 October 2026.

What should I do if my dog ate ZZ plant?

  1. Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
  2. Take the plant away and rinse your dog's mouth with water.
  3. Go to a vet hospital right away if your dog has trouble swallowing or breathing.

Don't

  • Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
  • Don't give milk, oil, salt or other home remedies unless a vet tells you to.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Drooling
  • Pawing at the mouth or head shaking
  • Retching or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea

Why

The ZZ plant is one of the insoluble calcium oxalate plants: chewing releases tiny needle-like crystals that irritate the mouth and gut.

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.