Is Foxglove Toxic to Dogs?
Also known as: Digitalis, Fairy Bells, Fairy Gloves, Purple Foxglove · Digitalis purpurea
What makes it toxic
Cardiac glycosides (digitoxin, digoxin and related compounds) throughout the plant, most concentrated in seeds and leaves. They interfere with the heart’s electrical conduction.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, drooling and diarrhea quickly, followed by weakness, bradycardia or irregular pulse, dilated pupils, tremors, collapse and potentially death within hours.
What to do if your dog eats it
Emergency. Get the dog to a vet or animal ER immediately, taking plant material. Tell the vet it is foxglove — heart monitoring and early decontamination are critical.
Common questions
How much foxglove is deadly for a dog?
Small amounts of leaf can seriously affect a small dog, and seeds are even more concentrated. There is no safe serving size of foxglove.
Can foxglove poisoning be treated?
Yes, when caught early — decontamination, continuous ECG, fluids and digoxin immune fragments for severe cases. Every hour matters.
My dog just sniffed the foxgloves — is that exposure?
Sniffing is harmless; the glycosides must be chewed and swallowed. Watch dogs that dig or graze around the flower spikes.
More plants checked for dogs
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.