Having houseplants is a great and easy way to breathe life into your home and brighten the space up. Plants can add personality and freshness while bringing immense health benefits, boosting your mood and improving the air quality in your home. Any kind of plant can bring a sense of calmness and bring a splash of greenery and nature into your home, whether that’s a leafy fern or a stunning succulent. However, plants in the home can become an issue if you have a curious pup. Dogs love exploring and can be a little naughty at times, chewing whatever they can find or barking out the window as people pass by. Because of this, you need to be careful about the type of plants you bring into your home.

A common misconception dog owners have when it comes to houseplants is that they can’t have any at all. This is not the case. There are some houseplants you can introduce to freshen your space that won’t harm your dog. Yes, some plants can be toxic if your pup chews or ingests them, but this can be avoided by doing your research before purchasing a houseplant. Understanding which plants are safe and which ones aren’t is essential in preventing any harm to your furry friend- because no one wants to rush to the vet concerned about their pooch. If you know exactly which plants you can put into your home, you can still enjoy the health benefits and stylish décor everyone else has while being pet-friendly.

Safe Houseplants for Dog Owners

When it comes to decorating with plants, you don’t have to avoid indoor greenery altogether just because you have a pup. There are many dog-safe plants out there that are just as beautiful as their toxic counterparts. These can bring all the benefits of bringing nature into your home while keeping your furry friend safe and sound, even if they do end up being naughty and have a chew on a plant.

Spider Plants

Spider plants are a popular choice because not only do they bring in a lot of greenery, but they also have amazing air-purifying qualities. Their arching green leaves create an interesting décor feature that blends into your home brilliantly. Spider plants can thrive almost anywhere because they are so resilient. Due to this, they are very easy to care for, requiring very little maintenance. What makes them even better is that they are non-toxic, so they don’t pose a threat to your pup.

Boston Fern

Another good option is the Boston fern, which adds a soft, bushy texture to any room and doesn’t pose a danger to pets. This type of plant is a timeless classic for your home that has lush foliage to make it stand out in any room. They also purify the air to give you a whole host of health benefits.

Calathea Plants

The calathea is a unique houseplant that you can add to your home without harming your pooch. This type of plant is non-toxic, so if your dog gets a little too close to it, they will be perfectly fine. Calathea plants bring a lot of personality to your home due to their gorgeous, dramatic, patterned leaves. They also have vibrant colors and unique textures that instantly transform your home and make it feel fresh.

Areca Palm

If you prefer a more tropical touch to your home, the areca palm is a great addition to any space. Its feathery leaves can transport you to a tropical paradise and make your home feel much more elegant. This plant is native to Madagascar, so it is very tropical and can bring a fresh atmosphere. Plus, it’s safe for your pooch.

African Violets

If you want a splash of color in your home, then a pet-friendly plant to have is African Violets. This type of plant has unique fuzzy leaves and beautiful, colorful flowers. Now, it may look delicate, but it’s actually quite tough and can survive in many environments, blooming all year round.

Prayer Plants

Known as the Maranta, the Prayer plant is another fantastic choice for your home. It is a very unique plant with striking leaf patterns and completely changes at night. Its leaves fold up at night into a ‘prayer’ movement, adding a touch of movement and life into your space. It is also a pet-friendly option, so your pup will be safe and sound.

Houseplants That Are Hazardous to Dogs

On the other hand, some of the most commonly sold houseplants are unfortunately not pet-friendly. It is important to know which ones aren’t good for your furry friend so you can avoid harming them. These are:

• Peace Lilies: They are beautiful and easy to grow, but contain compounds that can cause mouth irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if your dog chews on them.
• Pothos: This plant is usually recommended for your home if you are a newbie to caring for plants because it’s easy to care for. However, it is toxic to dogs because it has calcium oxalate in it, which can irritate the mouth and digestive tract.
• Philodendrons: This is another favorite for those seeking easy plants because it is low-maintenance. This plant is toxic to your dog, so keep this plant out of your home.
• Aloe Vera: Everyone knows about Aloe Vera due to its magnificent healing properties. But, surprisingly, this plant can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
• Sago Palm: This is the most dangerous houseplant for your furry friend and needs to be avoided at all costs. The plant produces seeds that are very toxic and can lead to liver failure if your pup ingests them.

If you’re unsure whether a plant is safe, it’s always best to double-check with a vet or a reliable plant toxicity resource before bringing it into your home.

Training and Routine: Your Dog’s Safety Net

While choosing the right plants is a great first step, it’s just as important to train your dog not to chew or dig in your houseplants. Even pet-safe plants can cause mild digestive upset if eaten in large amounts, and no one wants overturned pots or soil tracked through the living room. Teaching your dog boundaries around your plants through basic commands like “leave it” and providing plenty of stimulation elsewhere can help redirect their curiosity.

Part of a well-rounded routine includes good nutrition, regular exercise, and engaging toys. Ensuring your dog is satisfied and stimulated reduces the likelihood of them looking for excitement in your plant pots. A complete diet tailored to their needs, like the natural, nourishing options found in all-natural dog food, can make all the difference when it comes to their behavior and wellbeing.

A Home That Works for Everyone

Creating a green and pet-friendly home doesn’t have to mean compromise. With a little awareness and planning, you can enjoy a thriving indoor garden while keeping your furry companion safe. By choosing the right plants, placing them smartly, and incorporating a bit of training, your home can become a peaceful haven for both pets and plants.