Cycads (Sago Palm)
Encephalartos / Cycas revoluta
Symptoms: Vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, seizures, liver failure — often fatal.
Notes: Every part is toxic; the seeds are the worst. Common in Durban gardens — treat as an emergency.
Suspected poisoning is an emergency.
If your dog has eaten any of these plants, call your vet immediately. Take a photo of the plant and, if safe, a sample of what was chewed. Do not induce vomiting unless your vet instructs you to.
Severe
Lilies
Lilium / Hemerocallis
Symptoms: Vomiting, lethargy, kidney failure within 24–72 hours.
Notes: Especially dangerous for cats, but many lilies are toxic to dogs too. Remove from pet-friendly gardens.
Azalea & Rhododendron
Rhododendron spp.
Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, weakness, abnormal heart rhythm, coma.
Notes: A few leaves can poison a small dog. Popular ornamental in KZN.
Oleander
Nerium oleander
Symptoms: Vomiting, tremors, irregular heartbeat, collapse.
Notes: Extremely toxic — even water from cut flowers is dangerous.
Frangipani
Plumeria
Symptoms: Mouth irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea.
Notes: The milky sap irritates skin and gut. Rinse mouth and paws if chewed.
Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow
Brunfelsia
Symptoms: Tremors, seizures, coughing fits.
Notes: A common Durban garden shrub — the berries are especially dangerous.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Dieffenbachia spp.
Symptoms: Intense mouth burning, drooling, swelling, difficulty swallowing.
Notes: Popular indoor plant. Keep well out of reach of puppies.
Aloe (ornamental varieties)
Aloe spp.
Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, tremors.
Notes: Aloe vera gel itself is mild; the whole plant, especially the latex, is toxic.
Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
Symptoms: Vomiting, weakness, heart arrhythmia, cardiac arrest.
Notes: All parts, including water in the vase, are toxic.
Castor Oil Plant
Ricinus communis
Symptoms: Severe vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures.
Notes: Ricin in the seeds is one of the most toxic natural substances known.
If your dog eats a toxic plant
- Remove any remaining plant from your dog's mouth.
- Rinse the mouth gently with water — don't force it.
- Phone your vet before you drive there. Describe what was eaten and how much.
- Take a photo of the plant and a sample of the chewed material.
- Keep your dog calm and warm on the way to the clinic.
Have questions about your dog's safety?
Our trainers at the Natal German Shepherd Dog Club are happy to help point new owners in the right direction — from plant-proofing the garden to raising a confident puppy.
This guide is informational and doesn't replace veterinary advice. If you're unsure about a plant, ask your vet or a poison helpline.