Are Hostas Poisonous to Dogs?

Able to thrive in varying environmental conditions, hostas are common North American landscape ornamentals. Sometimes referred to as plantain lilies or funkia, these natives of Japan, Korea and China are dangerous to dogs who eat them.

Hostas contain chemicals called saponins, which can cause mild to severe reactions in canines. If your dog ingests any part of a hosta, he may experiences diarrhea, vomiting and depression.

Always go with your dog on outdoor forays if you grow hostas in your yard. If you permit him to frequent a confined area outside unaccompanied, make sure he can’t access your hostas. Don’t allow him to roam freely if he could possibly wander onto the property of someone who grows these plants.