Bringing plants into your home adds beauty, freshens the air, and creates a calming atmosphere. But if you have a dog, choosing non-toxic plants is essential. Many common houseplants can be harmful to pets if ingested, causing stomach upset or more severe health issues.
Thankfully, there are plenty of dog-friendly indoor plants that let you enjoy greenery without worrying about your pet’s safety. These plants are non-toxic, easy to care for, and perfect for pet-friendly homes.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best indoor plants that are safe for dogs, how to care for them, and tips for keeping both your plants and pets happy.
Why Choose Dog-Safe Indoor Plants?
Dogs are naturally curious. They sniff, chew, and sometimes even dig in houseplants. If a plant is toxic, even a small nibble can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or worse health problems. That’s why selecting safe, non-toxic plants is crucial for every pet owner.
Indoor plants not only enhance home décor, but they also improve air quality and reduce stress. Choosing the right plants ensures that both your pets and plants can coexist safely.
By selecting dog-friendly indoor plants, you eliminate the risk of accidental poisoning while still enjoying a lush, green home.
Best Indoor Plants That Are Safe for Dogs
1️⃣ Areca Palm
The Areca Palm, also called the Butterfly Palm, is a stunning tropical plant that adds height and beauty to any room. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires moderate watering.
Since it’s non-toxic to dogs, it’s a perfect choice for pet-friendly households. Plus, this plant is an excellent air purifier, helping remove toxins from indoor air.
📌 Care Tip: Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering.
2️⃣ Boston Fern
Boston Ferns are popular houseplants known for their lush, feathery fronds. Unlike some ferns, which can be toxic, the Boston Fern is completely safe for dogs.
These plants love humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. They also help increase indoor humidity, which is great for reducing dry air in winter.
📌 Care Tip: Mist regularly to keep the leaves from drying out.
3️⃣ Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is one of the best low-maintenance indoor plants and is completely non-toxic to dogs. Its long, arching green leaves with white stripes add a unique look to any space.
It’s also known for purifying indoor air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. Even if your dog nibbles on the leaves, it won’t cause harm.
📌 Care Tip: Place in indirect light and water once a week.
4️⃣ Parlor Palm
If you want an elegant, low-maintenance plant, the Parlor Palm is a great choice. It’s completely safe for dogs and thrives in low-light conditions, making it perfect for apartments or offices.
This plant adds a tropical feel to your home without requiring much care. It’s also a great natural humidifier, making indoor air fresher and healthier.
📌 Care Tip: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
5️⃣ Calathea
Calatheas are stunning plants known for their colorful, patterned leaves. They are non-toxic to dogs and come in various varieties, such as Calathea Orbifolia and Calathea Medallion.
These plants prefer low to moderate light and high humidity, making them ideal for bathrooms or living rooms with indirect sunlight.
📌 Care Tip: Use filtered water to prevent brown leaf tips.
Tips for Keeping Plants and Dogs Safe
Even with pet-friendly plants, it’s best to keep plants out of reach to prevent excessive chewing or digging. Use hanging planters, plant stands, or shelves to display greenery safely.
Regularly check your plants for pests or mold, as some fungi can be harmful to pets. Also, avoid using chemical fertilizers or pesticides, as they can be toxic if ingested.
If your dog loves digging in plant soil, try covering the soil with pebbles or using a decorative barrier to discourage digging. Providing dog-safe chew toys can also help redirect their curiosity.
Plants That Are Toxic to Dogs (Avoid These!)
While many plants are safe, some common houseplants can be harmful to dogs. Avoid the following toxic plants:
❌ Pothos – Can cause vomiting and irritation.
❌ Aloe Vera – Contains compounds that can cause stomach upset.
❌ Peace Lily – Can lead to mouth irritation and drooling.
❌ Dieffenbachia – Causes swelling and burning in the mouth.
❌ Sago Palm – Extremely toxic and can cause liver failure.
Adding indoor plants to your home doesn’t mean putting your dog at risk. By choosing safe, non-toxic plants, you can enjoy the benefits of greenery without worry. Whether you prefer tropical palms, elegant ferns, or easy-care spider plants, there are plenty of options for a pet-friendly home. Learn more about how to choose the best plants for your furry friends in our guide: Produce Plants that Benefit Your Pets: A Guide to Pet-Friendly Greens.
For more gardening tips, visit Better Homes & Gardens or The Spruce.
FAQs About Dog-Friendly Indoor Plants
Can I keep indoor plants if I have a dog?
Yes! Many plants, like Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, and Parlor Palms, are completely safe for dogs.
What should I do if my dog eats a toxic plant?
Contact a vet immediately. Watch for signs like vomiting, drooling, or difficulty breathing.
How can I stop my dog from digging in plant pots?
Use decorative stones, plant covers, or hanging planters to keep plants out of reach.
Are succulents safe for dogs?
Some succulents, like Haworthia, are safe, but others, like Aloe Vera, can be toxic. Always check before buying.
What is the best air-purifying plant that is safe for dogs?
The Areca Palm, Spider Plant, and Boston Fern are great air-purifying plants that won’t harm your pet.
