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Is Cotoneaster Toxic to Dogs?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Mild

✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

Yes, cotoneaster is mildly toxic to dogs. Berries and foliage carry cyanogenic glycosides that usually cause nothing worse than vomiting and diarrhea.

Also known as: Rockspray Cotoneaster, Hedge Cotoneaster · Cotoneaster spp.

What makes it toxic

Amygdalin-type cyanogenic glycosides in the berries and leaves, which can release small quantities of cyanide when metabolized.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and mild lethargy within hours. Serious systemic signs are rare and would follow a very large ingestion.

What to do if your dog eats it

Take away the berries, offer water and watch for GI signs. Contact your vet if vomiting repeats; breathing changes or collapse call for emergency care.

Common questions

My dog snacked on cotoneaster berries all autumn — what now?

If the dog still seems well, watch for vomiting and diarrhea. Repeated berry snacking should be discouraged, and persistent symptoms need a vet visit.

Is cotoneaster hedge trimmings safe to compost where dogs go?

Better not to leave clippings within reach. Berries and leaves both contain the glycosides until fully composted.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals tha Aloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain co Spider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk of Easter Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal ki Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untre Boston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs. Chewing a frond will not poison your dog.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.