Not Safe
Not SafeVet Reviewedplant

Not Safe for Dogs

Medium dog serving: never

Key warning: all aloe vera plant material — leaves gel and latex all contain some aloin

Can Dogs Eat Aloe Vera? No — Aloin in the Plant is Toxic

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Aloe vera plants are toxic to dogs. The aloin in the latex layer under the skin causes vomiting diarrhea and in larger amounts more serious systemic effects. Dogs that chew on aloe vera plants or leaves need veterinary attention.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Aloin from latex layer: gastrointestinal toxicity — vomiting and diarrhea. Significant ingestion: more serious systemic effects. Saponins in the plant: additional gastrointestinal irritants.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet or ASPCA 888-426-4435 if significant amount chewed.

What to Avoid

all aloe vera plant material — leaves gel and latex all contain some aloin

Preparation & Serving

Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 if significant amount chewed. Monitor for vomiting diarrhea lethargy.

Did you know?

Aloe vera has been used medicinally for at least 6000 years — it appears in ancient Egyptian medical texts and was called the plant of immortality. Cleopatra reportedly used aloe vera gel as part of her beauty regimen. The ancient Egyptians depicted aloe vera on temple walls and used it in embalming. The global aloe vera industry is worth approximately 13 billion dollars annually with uses ranging from skincare to food production.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (small dog)
never
Serving (medium dog)
never
Serving (large dog)
never
Calories (per 100g)
0
Safe frequency
Never — keep plants out of reach

Source

Source: SAFEFOODFORDOGS

What You Need to Know

Aloe vera plants contain aloin — concentrated in the yellowish latex layer just beneath the outer skin of the leaves. Dogs that chew on aloe vera leaves or plants ingest this aloin causing vomiting diarrhea and gastrointestinal irritation. The inner gel has much lower aloin content but the latex layer is unavoidable when a dog chews on a leaf. The severity depends on the amount ingested — small amounts cause primarily digestive upset while larger amounts can cause more serious systemic effects. Keep aloe vera plants in areas dogs cannot access.

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.