Can Dogs Eat Mistletoe? No — Berries Cause Cardiovascular Effects
This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.
Mistletoe is toxic to dogs with the berries being most dangerous. It contains multiple toxic compounds causing GI distress and cardiovascular effects. Keep all holiday mistletoe completely out of reach of dogs.
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Warning Signs & Symptoms
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, cardiovascular effects (low heart rate, low blood pressure) with large ingestion.
If Your Dog Ate This
Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 immediately.
What to Avoid
all parts especially berries — dried mistletoe also toxic
Preparation & Serving
Call vet if any amount consumed. Cardiovascular monitoring may be required for significant ingestion.
Did you know?
The tradition of kissing under mistletoe dates to ancient Norse mythology where mistletoe was associated with Frigg the goddess of love after her son Baldur was killed by a mistletoe arrow and revived. The plant has been considered magical for millennia despite being toxic to pets.
Portions & nutrition
- Serving (small dog)
- never
- Serving (medium dog)
- never
- Serving (large dog)
- never
- Calories (per 100g)
- 0
- Safe frequency
- Never
Source
What You Need to Know
Both American and European mistletoe contain toxic compounds including phoratoxin and viscotoxins. The berries are most concentrated. While a small exposure is unlikely to be fatal significant ingestion causes cardiovascular effects requiring urgent veterinary care. Dried mistletoe from holiday decorations retains its toxicity. Always hang mistletoe well out of dogs reach.
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?
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