Can Dogs Eat Holly? No — Berries Cause GI Distress and Are Most Dangerous

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

Holly plants including English holly and American holly are toxic to dogs. The bright red berries are most dangerous as dogs are attracted to them. Holly causes GI distress and in large amounts more serious symptoms.

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Warning Signs & Symptoms

Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, head shaking, lip smacking (from bitter taste). Large amounts: more serious GI symptoms.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 immediately.

What to Avoid

all parts especially berries

Preparation & Serving

Call vet if significant amount consumed especially berries. Monitor for GI symptoms.

Did you know?

Holly berries remain on the plant through winter because birds that eat them cannot digest the seeds but can pass them — dispersing holly plants over wide areas. Dogs attracted to the bright red berries during winter holidays face the same risk as any holly ingestion.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (small dog): never
Serving (medium dog): never
Serving (large dog): never
Calories (per 100g): 0
Safe frequency: Never

Source

Source: ASPCA

What You Need to Know

Holly berries contain saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens. While rarely fatal compared to some toxic plants holly causes significant GI distress. The berries are most dangerous and most palatable. Dogs often eat them from plants in the garden or from holiday decorations. Both English (Ilex aquifolium) and American (Ilex opaca) holly are toxic.

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

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If Your Dog Ate This — Act Now

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Frequently asked questions

Is Holly Dogs safe for dogs?: No, Holly Dogs is not safe for dogs. Holly plants including English holly and American holly are toxic to dogs. The bright red berries are most dangerous as dogs are attracted to them. Holly causes GI distress and in large amounts more serious symptoms.
What happens if a dog eats Holly Dogs?: If a dog eats Holly Dogs, they may experience: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, head shaking, lip smacking (from bitter taste). Large amounts: more serious GI symptoms.
How much Holly Dogs can a dog eat?: Holly berries contain saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens. While rarely fatal compared to some toxic plants holly causes significant GI distress. The berries are most dangerous and most palatable. Dogs often eat them from plants in the garden or from holiday decorations. Both English (Ilex aquifolium) and American (Ilex opaca) holly are 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.