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Are Peony Poisonous to Dogs? Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs?

Are peony poisonous to dogs? Are peonies toxic to dogs? In this article, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about the subject including the symptoms of peony poisoning in dogs and what to do if your dog just ate a peony. We’ll then explain the two commands that will make sure your dog keeps safe around peonies and other potentially poisonous plants.

Next, we’ll go over some more things you should know about peonies and dogs, such as how to keep dogs away from peonies using barriers and other methods. Finally, we’ll wrap all of this up by instructing you on how to plant peony when you have dogs around. Keep reading!

Are Peony Poisonous to Dogs?

Are Peony Poisonous to Dogs?

Peonies are poisonous to dogs. Although they are not known to be deadly, peonies are toxic to dogs and can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms if consumed. It’s important to monitor your furry friend around these flowers and take precautionary measures to prevent them from eating them.

Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs?

Peonies are toxic to dogs. They contain a compound known as paenol, which can cause an upset stomach and other mild to moderate symptoms in dogs when ingested. Although the toxicity level is low, it’s still best to keep your pet away from peonies to ensure their safety and well-being.

Peony Poisoning in Dogs Symptoms

Peony poisoning in dogs symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. In rare cases, the dog may also suffer from tremors or have difficulty walking. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms after coming into contact with peonies, it’s important to contact your vet immediately for further guidance and possible treatment.

Training “Leave It” Command

One way to help keep your dog safe around peonies is to train them with the “Leave It” command. Here’s a simple way to do it:

  1. Start with a treat in both hands. Close your fists and present one hand to your dog while saying “Leave It.”
  2. Wait until your dog stops trying to get the treat and redirects their attention to you. Once they do, say “Good” or “Yes,” and give them the treat from the other hand.
  3. Repeat this exercise multiple times. Once your dog consistently leaves the treat, you can practice with different items, gradually moving towards objects like plants.

This command is helpful if your dog is showing too much interest in peonies.

Training “Drop It” Command

The “Drop It” command is another useful tool for ensuring your dog’s safety around potentially harmful plants. Here’s how to train it:

  1. Start playing a game with a toy your dog likes. Once your dog has the toy in their mouth, say “Drop It” while showing them a treat.
  2. When your dog drops the toy to get the treat, give them the reward and praise them.
  3. Repeat this several times until your dog starts to drop the toy on command without needing to see the treat.

Training your dog to drop objects on command can be crucial if they ever pick up a part of a peony plant in their mouth.

While peonies are poisonous to dogs, with proper training and preventive measures, you can keep your dog safe and enjoy the beauty of these flowers in your garden.

These commands are an essential part of making that a reality, but it’s important to remember that the underlying behavioral issues (curiosity, anxiety, boredom, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present.

And until you address those, any positive changes you see are only going to be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like your dog eating peony and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video, Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here. Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about your dog eating peonies ever again!

Can Peonies Kill Dogs?

Can Peonies Kill Dogs?

Peonies are mildly toxic to dogs, but they are not known to cause death. Nonetheless, if your dog eats a peony, it can lead to discomfort and a variety of unpleasant symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. As a dog owner, it’s essential to take preventive measures and ensure your dog doesn’t ingest this plant.

Are Peonies Safe for Dogs?

Peonies are not safe for dogs, though they aren’t likely to cause severe harm or death. The paenol compound found in peonies can cause an upset stomach and other mild to moderate symptoms in dogs when ingested. Although not typically life-threatening, these symptoms can lead to discomfort and distress for your pet.

My Dog Just Ate a Peony, What Do I Do?

If your dog ate a peony, don’t panic. Monitor your dog closely for any signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Remove any remaining parts of the plant from your dog’s reach. Contact your veterinarian immediately to inform them of the situation and follow their advice.

They may instruct you to bring your dog in for examination or observe your dog at home for further symptoms.

Dog Eating Peonies: How to Prevent

Prevention is key when it comes to dogs and potentially harmful plants. Train your dog to understand commands like “Leave It” and “Drop It,” which can be lifesavers in situations where your pet shows interest in peonies. Learn both now in the first section.

Additionally, consider placing barriers around your peonies or any other toxic plants in your garden. Another option is to place these plants in areas that are not accessible to your dog.

In summary, while peonies are not likely to kill dogs, they can cause mild to moderate symptoms if ingested. It’s crucial to ensure your pet doesn’t eat these plants. With proper training and prevention strategies, you can coexist peacefully with your peonies and your furry friend.

It’s a very good idea to handle this problem now as it will also keep your dog safe around other types of plants. You then won’t have to stress about things like is Heuchera poisonous to dogs, are Buttercups poisonous to dogs, are Camellias toxic to dogs, or are Dahlias toxic to dogs.

Peonies and Dogs

Peonies and Dogs

Peonies, while beautiful and fragrant, are considered mildly toxic to dogs. If your dog consumes this plant, it may result in discomfort and mild symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to take steps to keep your dog away from peonies and other potentially harmful plants.

How to Keep Dogs Away From Peonies

There are a few strategies to keep dogs away from peonies. The most straightforward way is to physically separate peonies and dogs. This can be done using barriers or fences around your flower beds or garden areas where peonies grow. These barriers prevent dogs from getting close enough to eat or chew on the plants.

Teach Your Dog to Avoid Peonies

Training your dog to avoid certain plants can be another effective measure. Use commands like “leave it” and “drop it” when your dog shows interest in the peonies. Learn both now in the first section. Regular training sessions can help your dog understand that these plants are off-limits.

Alternative Plants Safe for Dogs

If your dog has a habit of nibbling on plants, consider growing pet-safe alternatives alongside or instead of peonies. Pet-safe plants such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and some types of orchids can provide the greenery and visual appeal without posing a risk to your dog’s health.

In conclusion, while peonies pose a mild toxicity risk to dogs, several strategies can help keep your dog safe. By using physical barriers, investing time in training, and considering pet-safe plants, you can enjoy the beauty of peonies in your garden while ensuring your dog’s well-being.

How to Plant Peonies

Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs?

Planting peonies involves careful site selection, soil preparation, and attentive aftercare. These perennial plants prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and cool winters for optimal growth and bloom. Once established, peonies require minimal care and can thrive for decades, producing beautiful, fragrant blooms each spring.

  1. Choosing the Location: Peonies thrive best in a spot that receives full sun for at least six hours a day. However, in hotter climates, they appreciate some afternoon shade. The selected location should have well-draining soil and enough space for the plants to grow without crowding, as peonies don’t like to be moved once established.
  2. Preparing the Soil: Peonies prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Amend the planting site with plenty of organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, to enhance soil fertility and structure. If the soil is heavy clay or sandy, consider adding peat moss or composted bark for improved texture and drainage.
  3. Planting the Peony: Dig a hole that’s wide and deep enough to accommodate the peony root, usually about 2 feet wide and deep. Place the peony root in the hole with the eyes (buds) facing upwards and positioned 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Backfill with soil, firming gently around the root to remove any air pockets.
  4. Watering and Mulching: Water the peony thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during the first growing season. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plant to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the stem to prevent rot.

Planting peonies can add a touch of timeless elegance to your garden. With their lush foliage and stunning, fragrant blooms, peonies offer a spectacular display each spring and can serve as beautiful cut flowers as well.

Learn the commands to keep your dog safe around these toxic plants by going back to the first section now.

I’m sure it’s good to know how to safely handle peony and dogs now, so I’ll let you get started. Good luck, and thanks for reading our article “Are Peony Poisonous to Dogs? Are Peonies Toxic to Dogs?”

The Author

KB Williams

KB Williams

Hey there! I'm a dog behavior expert and lover of travel. Since 2016, I've been sharing my knowledge of dog training and behavior while exploring the Pacific Northwest with my two rescues.