What happens if a dog eats Holly?

If a dog eats Holly, they may experience: Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, head shaking, lip smacking. Berries are most toxic.

Not Safe

Not SafeSafety rating and summary vet reviewed by Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVSshrub

Not Safe for Dogs

Key warning: all parts — berries and leaves

Is Holly Toxic to Dogs? Yes — Berries Most Toxic, Causes Vomiting

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

Holly berries and leaves are toxic to dogs. They contain saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens causing gastrointestinal distress.

Search another food

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, head shaking, lip smacking. Berries are most toxic.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet if berries consumed. Monitor for vomiting, drooling, and lip smacking.

What to Avoid

all parts — berries and leaves

Preparation & Serving

Keep holly plants out of reach especially during Christmas season when branches are brought indoors.

Safer Alternatives

Use artificial holly in holiday decorations as a safer alternative

Did you know?

Holly berries contain theobromine — the same compound found in chocolate — in addition to saponins and cyanogens, making holly berries toxic through multiple mechanisms simultaneously.

Portions & nutrition

Toxic dose (per kg body weight): Berries most concentrated — saponins and theobromine cause symptoms with a few berries
Calories (per 100g): 0
Safe frequency: Never

Source

Source: ASPCA

What You Need to Know

Both American and English holly are toxic. The berries are the most dangerous part and attract dogs with their bright red color. Common in Christmas decorations.

Holly Variations

Holly DogsNot Safe

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

Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?

Take the 60-second kitchen safety assessment to find out your dog's risk score.

Take the safety assessment

If Your Dog Ate This — Act Now

Related guides & hubs

Browse the food databaseSearch foods and browse categories Browse all dog health guidesNutrition, safety, insurance, and more Emergency guide: what to do nextStep-by-step actions for the next 60 minutes Dangerous foods dogs cannot eatA complete toxic foods list Best online vet servicesTelehealth options when you need answers fast

Frequently asked questions

Is Holly safe for dogs?: No, Holly is not safe for dogs. Holly berries and leaves are toxic to dogs. They contain saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens causing gastrointestinal distress.
What happens if a dog eats Holly?: If a dog eats Holly, they may experience: Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, head shaking, lip smacking. Berries are most toxic.
How much Holly can a dog eat?: Both American and English holly are toxic. The berries are the most dangerous part and attract dogs with their bright red color. Common in Christmas decorations.

Stay in the loop

Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.

Veterinary review: Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVS reviewed this food's safety rating, summary, symptoms, main details and any age or breed notes on 4 April 2026. Everything else on this page, including feeding amounts and portions, toxic-dose figures, toxicity level, emergency steps and preparation advice, was added later and was not part of that review.

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