Care

Are SunPatiens Toxic to Dogs? Are SunPatiens Poisonous to Dogs?

Are SunPatiens toxic to dogs? Are SunPatiens poisonous to dogs? In this article, we’ll fill you in on everything you need to know about this subject including what to do if your dog ate SunPatiens already. We’re then going to teach you the two commands that will ensure your dog is always safe around SunPatiens and other possibly toxic plants.

Next, we’ll explain the subtle differences between SunPatiens vs Impatiens vs New Guinea Impatiens before telling you how to keep dogs away from SunPatiens using barriers and other methods. Finally, we’ll finish everything up by instructing you on how to plant SunPatiens when you have dogs around. Keep reading!

Are SunPatiens Toxic to Dogs?

Are SunPatiens Toxic to Dogs?

SunPatiens are not toxic to dogs. However, it’s still a good idea to discourage your dog from eating them as they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Prevention also stops your dog from getting into the habit of eating plants, some of which will actually be harmful.

Are SunPatiens Poisonous to Dogs?

SunPatiens are not poisonous to dogs. Nonetheless, if a dog eats a large amount of SunPatiens, it could experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. Therefore, even though they are not inherently harmful, you should still keep these plants out of your dog’s reach.

Teach the “Leave It” Command

One effective way to stop your dog eating SunPatiens is by teaching the “Leave It” command. This is a basic obedience command that instructs your dog to ignore or walk away from items you don’t want it to touch or consume. Here are some simple steps to teach this command:

  1. Hold a treat in a closed fist and present it to your dog without letting it eat the treat.
  2. When your dog tries to get the treat, say “leave it” in a firm voice.
  3. When your dog backs away from your hand, praise it and give it a treat from your other hand.
  4. Repeat this process until your dog consistently follows the command.

Teach the “Drop It” Command

The “Drop It” command instructs your dog to let go of something in its mouth. This can be particularly useful if your dog has already picked up a piece of SunPatiens. Here’s how to train your dog to follow this command:

  1. Start by playing a game of tug with your dog using a toy.
  2. While your dog is tugging at the toy, say “drop it”.
  3. When your dog releases the toy, praise it and provide a treat.
  4. Practice this command regularly to reinforce the behavior.

While SunPatiens are not toxic to dogs, they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large amounts. These commands will get your dog to stop eating SunPatiens, 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 SunPatiens 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 SunPatiens ever again!

SunPatiens vs Impatiens vs New Guinea Impatiens

SunPatiens vs Impatiens

SunPatiens vs Impatiens vs New Guinea Impatiens: what’s the difference between these three popular types of flowering plants often used for landscaping and as houseplants? While they share similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of appearance, growing conditions, and pet safety.

Impatiens vs SunPatiens

Impatiens, also known as busy lizzies, are shade-loving plants that produce small, vibrant flowers. On the other hand, SunPatiens are a hybrid variety developed to tolerate more sunlight and heat than traditional Impatiens. SunPatiens have larger flowers and leaves compared to Impatiens and come in a wider range of colors.

From a pet safety perspective, both Impatiens and SunPatiens are not toxic to dogs. However, they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities. Therefore, it’s best to discourage dogs from ingesting these plants.

New Guinea Impatiens vs SunPatiens

New Guinea Impatiens are known for their larger, showier flowers and broader leaves with a dark green color. They tolerate more sunlight than traditional Impatiens but less than SunPatiens.

Like their Impatiens and SunPatiens counterparts, New Guinea Impatiens are not considered toxic to dogs. Yet, if consumed in excess, they can lead to minor gastrointestinal discomfort. Thus, you should make sure your dog does not eat any.

SunPatiens: A Closer Look

SunPatiens are robust, low-maintenance plants that thrive in a wide range of climates. They are an ideal choice for homeowners looking for vibrant colors in sunnier spots. Their large flowers and fast growth rate make them a popular choice for quick and easy landscaping.

New Guinea Impatiens: A Closer Look

New Guinea Impatiens are beloved for their stunning flowers and colorful foliage, making them an appealing choice for indoor and outdoor decoration. They require a bit more care compared to SunPatiens, particularly in terms of light exposure and watering.

In summary, while all three types of plants are aesthetically pleasing and safe for dogs, they vary in terms of sun tolerance, flower size, and care requirements. Regardless of the variety, dog owners should discourage their pets from consuming these plants to avoid any potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Learn how in the first section.

Are SunPatiens Safe for Dogs?

SunPatiens Safe for Dogs

SunPatiens are safe for dogs, like other types of Impatiens. They are not listed as toxic plants for dogs by the ASPCA. However, any plant material can cause minor gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested in large amounts.

Dog Ate SunPatiens, What Do I Do?

If your dog ate SunPatiens, there’s typically no need to panic. Keep an eye out for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. These signs may indicate that your dog ate too much of the plant and is experiencing gastrointestinal upset.

If your dog shows severe symptoms or if you’re particularly concerned, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice.

Dog Eating SunPatiens Prevention

Preventing your dog from eating SunPatiens can save both you and your pet from unnecessary stress. Start by training your dog not to eat plants. Commands like “leave it” and “drop it” can be beneficial in this regard. Learn them both in the first section.

Moreover, consider positioning your SunPatiens in places that are out of your dog’s reach, or create a physical barrier around the plants.

Creating Safe Spaces for Your Dog and Plants

Creating safe spaces for both your dog and your plants can be another effective measure. Consider creating a designated, plant-free area for your dog in your garden. Alternatively, you can place your plants in areas that your dog cannot access, or use garden fencing or indoor plant stands to keep your plants out of your dog’s reach.

While SunPatiens are not toxic to dogs, consumption can lead to minor gastrointestinal discomfort. Prevention is key, which can be achieved through training and creating safe spaces in your home and garden. Always monitor your dog and consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in behavior or health.

You’ll definitely want to get this problem handled now, as doing so will also keep them safe around other plants which may be harmful. You then won’t have to worry about things like are New Guinea Impatiens toxic to dogs, are Impatiens toxic to dogs, are geraniums toxic to dogs, or is alyssum poisonous to dogs.

SunPatiens and Dogs

SunPatiens and Dogs

SunPatiens, much like other Impatiens species, are generally safe for dogs. They are not classified as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA. However, if your dog eats large amounts, it may lead to minor gastrointestinal upset.

How to Keep Dogs Away From SunPatiens

Keeping dogs away from your SunPatiens can save both you and your pet from potential distress. Strategies can include training your dog not to eat plants, positioning your SunPatiens out of your dog’s reach, or using barriers such as fences or elevated planters to create a physical boundary between your dog and the plants.

Training Your Dog

Training is an effective tool to prevent your dog from interacting with your plants. Commands like “leave it” and “drop it” can be particularly useful. Learn both in the first section. Training your dog to understand and follow these commands can help keep them safe, not just from SunPatiens, but from other potential dangers as well.

Creating a Safe Environment

Another effective approach is to create a safe environment for both your dog and your plants. For example, you can designate a specific, plant-free area in your garden for your dog to play. Alternatively, placing plants in areas that are inaccessible to your dog, such as high shelves or fenced areas, can also help keep both your dog and your plants safe.

Use of Deterrents

One more step you can take is the use of deterrents to keep your dog away from the SunPatiens. Safe and non-toxic deterrents such as bitter apple spray can be applied to the plants, which dogs find unappealing. This can discourage your dog from nibbling on the plants.

In conclusion, while SunPatiens are not toxic to dogs, they can cause minor stomach upset if consumed in large quantities. Keeping your dogs away from these plants can be accomplished through training (learn how in the first section), designing safe spaces, and using deterrents.

Always keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior and consult with your vet if you notice anything unusual.

How to Plant SunPatiens

Are SunPatiens Poisonous to Dogs?

To plant SunPatiens, select a location with full sun to part shade, prepare the soil with ample organic matter, plant the SunPatiens at the same depth as their root ball, water thoroughly, and provide regular feedings with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

SunPatiens are known for their larger size, vigorous growth, and ability to thrive in both sun and shade, making them a versatile and striking addition to your garden or containers.

  1. Choosing the Location: Unlike many Impatiens, SunPatiens can thrive in full sun to part shade. They are incredibly versatile and adaptable, which makes them ideal for various garden locations. Choose a spot that gets a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight every day. Remember, these plants are heat-tolerant and can handle more sun than their shade-loving cousins, which makes them perfect for brightening up sunny borders, making a dramatic statement in containers on a sunny patio, or filling in bare spots in your garden that receive a good amount of sunlight.
  2. Preparing the Soil: SunPatiens prefer a rich, well-draining soil, which is essential for their healthy growth. To provide the best soil conditions, add a substantial amount of compost or other organic matter to your garden soil. This addition not only supplies the necessary nutrients for your SunPatiens to thrive but also significantly improves the structure of the soil. Good soil structure allows for better water retention and drainage, and encourages the development of a healthy root system which is critical for the vigorous growth of your SunPatiens.
  3. Planting the SunPatiens: When it comes to planting, dig a hole that’s the same depth as the root ball of your SunPatiens but twice as wide. This size allows the roots to spread out comfortably in their new home. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with the soil, pressing it down firmly around the plant to secure it and eliminate any air pockets that could negatively affect root growth.
  4. Watering and Feeding: Once you’ve planted your SunPatiens, give them a good watering. The aim is to ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged or soggy. SunPatiens prefer consistent moisture, so keep an eye on the soil, especially in hot or windy conditions, to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Feeding is equally important for the growth and blooming of your SunPatiens. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time can provide the nutrients they need for vigorous growth and a profusion of bright, colorful blooms throughout the season.

SunPatiens, with their impressive blooms and robust growth, are an excellent choice for those seeking both beauty and ease of care in their garden. Following these planting instructions will set your SunPatiens up for a successful, colorful growing season. Learn to keep your dog away from them by going back to the first section.

I’m sure you’re ready for your SunPatiens and dogs to grow together without issue, so I’ll let you get started. Good luck with all of this, and thank you for reading our article “Are SunPatiens Toxic to Dogs? Are SunPatiens Poisonous 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.