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Pet safety · English Ivy

Is English Ivy Toxic to Dogs?

Yes. English Ivy is toxic to dogs per the ASPCA.

English Ivy (Hedera helix) is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA. Keep it out of reach of pets and contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) if ingestion is suspected.

Toxic principles

Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin)

Clinical signs

Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries

If your dog ate English Ivy

  1. Remove access to the plant immediately so no further ingestion occurs.
  2. Identify how much was eaten and roughly when. Note any visible plant material in vomit or stool.
  3. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. Be prepared to describe the plant, the amount eaten, and any symptoms.
  4. Do NOT induce vomiting at home unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian — it can worsen some toxicities.
  5. Watch for symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries. Seek emergency care if any appear.

Browse all dog-safe plants

Looking for safe alternatives? See our full list of pet-safe houseplants (verified against the ASPCA database) or check whether English Ivy is toxic to cats.

Source: ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List — English Ivy. Last verified 2026-05-28.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply).