Are Daylilies Poisonous to Dogs? Complete Safety Guide
If you’re a dog owner with a garden, you’ve probably wondered about the safety of your plants. One question that comes up frequently is whether daylilies pose a threat to our furry friends. The good news is that daylilies are generally considered non-toxic to dogs, making them a safer choice for pet-friendly gardens compared to many other flowering plants. However, understanding the full picture of plant safety is essential for keeping your dog healthy and happy.
Many plant families contain toxic species that can cause serious harm to dogs, so it’s important to know which plants are safe and which ones to avoid. While daylilies themselves won’t poison your dog, other common garden plants might. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about daylilies and dog safety, plus information about other plants you should be cautious with.
Your Local Scoop is committed to helping pet owners create safe, beautiful environments for their dogs. Let’s dive into what makes daylilies safe and what precautions you should still take in your garden.
Are Daylilies Safe for Dogs?
Yes, daylilies are safe for dogs. Unlike many other plants in the lily family, daylilies (Hemerocallis species) are non-toxic to canines and pose no serious health risk if your dog happens to nibble on them. This makes them an excellent choice for dog owners who want to maintain a beautiful garden without worrying about accidental poisoning.
The distinction is important: while daylilies are safe, many other types of lilies are extremely dangerous. True lilies—including Asiatic lilies, Oriental lilies, and Easter lilies—are highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe kidney damage or failure. If you’re concerned about lilies in your garden, it’s crucial to understand the difference between these species.
Even though daylilies won’t poison your dog, it’s still wise to discourage your pet from eating any plants. Consuming large quantities of any plant material can cause gastrointestinal upset, and some dogs may have individual sensitivities. Training your dog to avoid eating plants is a good general practice for overall safety.
Why Daylilies Are Safe
Daylilies are safe because they lack the toxic compounds found in true lilies. The toxins present in dangerous lilies—particularly in the flowers, leaves, and pollen—are alkaloid compounds that affect the kidneys. Daylilies contain none of these harmful substances, making them fundamentally different from their toxic cousins despite the similar name.
The ASPCA and veterinary toxicologists have classified daylilies as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. This classification is based on extensive research and case studies showing no adverse effects from daylily ingestion. However, moderation is still important; while the plant itself isn’t poisonous, eating excessive plant material of any kind can cause digestive issues.
One reason for confusion is the name. Many people assume that because daylilies contain the word “lily,” they must be related to true lilies and therefore toxic. In reality, daylilies belong to a different genus and have different chemical compositions. Understanding this botanical distinction helps pet owners make informed decisions about their gardens.
Toxic Lilies vs. Daylilies
The distinction between toxic lilies and daylilies is critical for dog safety. True lilies—members of the genus Lilium—are among the most toxic plants for dogs. Even small amounts of ingestion can cause serious kidney damage. In contrast, daylilies belong to the genus Hemerocallis and are completely safe.
True lilies that are toxic to dogs include:
- Asiatic lilies
- Oriental lilies
- Easter lilies
- Stargazer lilies
- Tiger lilies
- Trumpet lilies
Daylilies, on the other hand, are safe for dogs. They’re called “daylilies” because each flower typically blooms for just one day. They come in various colors including yellow, orange, red, pink, and purple, and they’re popular in gardens across North America.
If you want to learn more about the broader category of dangerous lilies, check out our guide on whether lilies are toxic to dogs. This resource provides comprehensive information about all lily varieties and their safety profiles.
Other Toxic Garden Plants to Avoid
While daylilies are safe, many other common garden plants pose serious risks to dogs. As a responsible pet owner, you should be aware of these dangerous plants and either avoid them or keep them out of your dog’s reach.
Highly Toxic Plants:
- Sago Palm: Extremely toxic; can cause liver failure with minimal ingestion
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Contain grayanotoxins that cause gastrointestinal upset and heart problems. Learn more about whether azaleas are poisonous to dogs
- Oleander: All parts are toxic; causes cardiac issues and gastrointestinal problems
- Foxglove: Contains cardiac glycosides; affects heart function
- Yew: All parts except the red berry are toxic; highly dangerous
Moderately Toxic Plants:
- Hostas: Cause gastrointestinal upset. Check our article on whether hostas are poisonous to dogs for more details
- Daffodils and Narcissus: Bulbs are most toxic; cause vomiting and diarrhea
- Tulips: Especially bulbs; cause mouth irritation and gastrointestinal upset
- Hydrangeas: Cause mild gastrointestinal upset
- Chrysanthemums: Contain pyrethrins; cause digestive issues
Beyond plants, you should also be aware of other household dangers. For example, if your dog accidentally ingests chocolate, knowing what to do if your dog eats chocolate could be lifesaving.
Symptoms of Plant Poisoning in Dogs
If your dog ingests a toxic plant, symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the plant and quantity consumed. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for getting your pet proper medical care.
Common Symptoms of Plant Poisoning:
- Vomiting or retching
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Drooling or excessive salivation
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or distension
- Lethargy or depression
- Tremors or seizures (severe cases)
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse or weakness
Plant-Specific Symptoms:
True lilies (which are toxic, unlike daylilies) cause very specific symptoms including kidney failure signs like increased thirst and urination. Azaleas cause heart rate changes and potential cardiac issues. Sago palms cause severe liver damage with symptoms appearing within 24-72 hours of ingestion.
If you notice any of these symptoms and suspect plant ingestion, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Time is critical, especially with highly toxic plants. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for guidance.
Prevention and Safety Tips
The best approach to plant safety is prevention. By taking proactive steps, you can minimize risks and create a dog-safe garden that’s also beautiful and enjoyable.
Garden Safety Strategies:
- Research Before Planting: Always check the toxicity of plants before adding them to your garden
- Create Dog-Free Zones: Use fencing or barriers to keep your dog away from potentially toxic plants
- Choose Dog-Safe Plants: Focus on non-toxic options like daylilies, roses, sunflowers, and zinnias
- Remove Fallen Leaves and Flowers: Don’t let toxic plant material accumulate where your dog can access it
- Supervise Garden Time: Watch your dog while they’re in the yard, especially if toxic plants are nearby
- Train Your Dog: Teach commands like “leave it” to discourage plant eating
- Provide Alternatives: Offer dog-safe chewing options and toys to redirect chewing behavior
When visiting other locations, stay vigilant too. If you’re wondering what stores allow dogs, remember that shopping centers and public spaces may have landscaping with toxic plants.
Indoor Plant Safety:
Indoor plants pose risks too. Common toxic houseplants include:
- Lilies (especially true lilies)
- Dieffenbachia
- Philodendron
- Ivy
- Peace lilies
- Aloe vera
Keep these plants on high shelves or in rooms your dog cannot access. If you have cats, be extra cautious—cats are even more susceptible to certain plant toxins than dogs.
What to Do If Your Dog Ingests a Toxic Plant
If you suspect your dog has eaten a toxic plant, act quickly. The first few hours after ingestion are critical for treatment effectiveness.
Immediate Steps:
- Remove Your Dog from the Area: Get your dog away from the plant to prevent further ingestion
- Identify the Plant: Take a photo or bring a sample if possible to show your veterinarian
- Note the Time: Document when ingestion likely occurred
- Collect Evidence: Note how much plant material was eaten, if possible
- Contact Your Veterinarian: Call immediately, even if symptoms haven’t appeared yet
- Contact Poison Control: Call the ASPCA Poison Control or Pet Poison Helpline for guidance
Treatment Options:
Depending on the plant and amount ingested, your veterinarian may recommend:
- Induced Vomiting: If caught early, this can remove plant material from the stomach. Learn more about how to induce vomiting in dogs
- Activated Charcoal: Helps bind toxins in the digestive system
- IV Fluids: Supports kidney function and flushes toxins
- Monitoring: Observation for symptom development and progression
- Supportive Care: Medications to manage symptoms and protect organs
Never attempt to induce vomiting at home without veterinary guidance. Some substances are more dangerous coming back up than going down. Your veterinarian will determine the best course of action based on the specific plant involved.
With true lilies, kidney damage can develop within 24-72 hours, so follow-up veterinary care and blood work may be necessary even if your dog seems fine initially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are daylilies toxic to dogs?
No, daylilies are not toxic to dogs. They are non-toxic and safe for dogs to be around. However, while they won’t poison your dog, it’s still best to discourage your pet from eating any plants, as consuming large quantities can cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
What’s the difference between daylilies and true lilies?
Daylilies belong to the genus Hemerocallis and are non-toxic. True lilies belong to the genus Lilium and are highly toxic to dogs. The key difference is their botanical classification and chemical composition. True lilies contain toxins that damage the kidneys, while daylilies contain no such compounds.
If my dog eats a daylily, should I be worried?
If your dog eats a small amount of a daylily, there’s no need to panic. Daylilies are not poisonous. However, if your dog eats a large quantity, they might experience mild digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea. Contact your veterinarian if your dog shows any symptoms.
Are all lilies toxic to dogs?
No, not all lilies are toxic. Daylilies are safe. However, true lilies (Asiatic, Oriental, Easter, Tiger, Stargazer, and Trumpet lilies) are extremely toxic to dogs and should be avoided. Always verify the specific type of lily before assuming it’s safe.
What should I do if my dog eats a true lily?
If your dog ingests a true lily, contact your veterinarian or poison control immediately. Even small amounts can cause serious kidney damage. Prompt treatment, including possible induced vomiting and IV fluids, may be necessary. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—seek help right away.
Can I have a dog-safe garden?
Absolutely! Many beautiful plants are safe for dogs, including daylilies, roses, sunflowers, zinnias, and marigolds. By choosing non-toxic plants and removing toxic ones, you can create a gorgeous garden that’s also safe for your furry friend.
What are the signs of plant poisoning in dogs?
Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, lethargy, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms after suspected plant ingestion, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Are daylilies safe for cats too?
Yes, daylilies are non-toxic to cats as well. However, true lilies are extremely toxic to cats and pose an even greater risk than they do to dogs. If you have cats, avoid true lilies completely.
