Care

Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous to Dogs? Is Cherry Laurel Toxic to Dogs?

Is Cherry Laurel poisonous to dogs? Is Cherry Laurel toxic to dogs? In this article, we’ll explain all you need to know about if Cherry Laurel is safe for dogs, including what to do if your dog ate Cherry Laurel berries. We’ll then teach you the two commands that will ensure your dog always behaves around plants that might be poisonous.

Next, we’ll go over more you should know about Cherry Laurel and dogs, such as how to keep dogs away using barriers. Finally, we’ll instruct you on Cherry Laurels care (growth rate, leaves, hardiness zone, height & size, bloom time, shade, evergreen, problems) and more to know when you have dogs. Keep reading!

Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous to Dogs?

Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous to Dogs?

Cherry Laurel is poisonous to dogs. If eaten, the plant can cause various symptoms, including vomiting and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary attention is important for dogs that have consumed Cherry Laurel. You must know the symptoms of poisoning and train your dog to avoid this plant.

Is Cherry Laurel Toxic to Dogs?

Cherry Laurel is toxic to dogs. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when chewed or crushed. Ingesting even a small amount can be harmful and lead to severe consequences, including respiratory failure and, in extreme cases, death.

Cherry Laurel Poisoning in Dogs Symptoms

Symptoms of  Cherry Laurel poisoning in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, and lack of coordination. In severe cases, seizures may occur. Prompt treatment from your veterinarian is important to mitigate these symptoms and prevent further complications.

Train the “Leave It” Command

  1. Hold a treat in your closed hand and let your dog sniff it.
  2. Say “leave it” and wait for the dog to pull away from your hand.
  3. Once the dog pulls away, praise and reward with a different treat.
  4. Gradually increase the difficulty by placing the treat on the ground and covering it with your hand.
  5. Repeat the steps until your dog reliably leaves the treat when commanded.

Training your dog to respond to the “leave it” command will help get them away from poisonous plants like Cherry Laurel.

Train the “Drop It” Command

  1. Offer your dog a toy to grab in its mouth.
  2. Hold a treat close to the dog’s nose and say “drop it.”
  3. Once the dog drops the toy, immediately reward with the treat.
  4. Continue practicing by increasing the value of the toy or item your dog holds.
  5. Practice this command regularly to ensure your dog will drop potentially dangerous items, like parts of a Cherry Laurel plant.

This command can be a lifesaver, as it teaches your dog to release something in their mouth such as a Cherry Laurel leaf or twig.

Cherry Laurel is poisonous to dogs, with ingestion leading to severe consequences. These commands will help keep your dog safe, but it’s important to remember that the underlying behavioral issues (curiosity, anxiety, boredom, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present.

And until you address those, any positive changes you see will only be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like your dog getting too close to Cherry Laurel and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video, Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here. Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about your dog eating Cherry Laurel ever again!

Cherry Laurel and Dogs

Cherry Laurel and Dogs

Cherry Laurel and dogs do not mix well. The plant, including its berries, is poisonous to dogs and can lead to severe health issues if ingested. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a dog eats any part of the Cherry Laurel plant.

Cherry Laurel Berries and Dogs

Cherry Laurel berries are particularly enticing but equally hazardous for dogs. The berries contain toxic substances like cyanogenic glycosides, which can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties. If your dog eats Cherry Laurel berries, immediate veterinary intervention is important.

My Dog Ate Cherry Laurel Berries, What Do I Do?

If your dog ate Cherry Laurel berries, the first step is to contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a medical professional. Time is of the essence, as prompt treatment can mitigate the severity of symptoms and improve the chances of a favorable outcome.

Are All Parts of Cherry Laurel Poisonous to Dogs?

Yes, all parts of the Cherry Laurel plant are poisonous to dogs, including leaves, bark, and flowers. Each contains cyanogenic glycosides that can cause severe symptoms upon ingestion. The risk extends to both the plant’s foliage and the berries, so it’s important to keep your pet away from Cherry Laurel. Learn a command that will help in the first section.

Why Are Dogs Attracted to Cherry Laurel?

Dogs might be drawn to Cherry Laurel due to its lush foliage and the visual appeal of its berries. The scent can also pique their curiosity. However, the plant’s attractiveness to dogs makes it even more crucial to ensure they are kept well away from it, given its toxic nature.

As a pet owner, awareness and vigilance are key when it comes to poisonous plants like Cherry Laurel. Immediate action and veterinary care are crucial if your dog has ingested any part of the plant. Proper training and awareness can go a long way in preventing such unfortunate incidents.

Is Cherry Laurel Safe for Dogs?

Cherry Laurel Safe for Dogs

Cherry Laurel is not safe for dogs. The plant contains toxic substances that can cause severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties. Immediate veterinary care is essential if a dog ingests any part of this plant.

How to Keep Dogs Away From Cherry Laurel

To protect your dog, it’s essential to put barriers around Cherry Laurel plants in your yard. Simple fencing works well, but you can also opt for more complex solutions like specialized dog-proof enclosures. Plant cages and mesh wiring can serve as additional safety measures.

It’s important to make these barriers high and sturdy enough to prevent your pet from jumping over them. Even when these barriers are in place, ongoing supervision is paramount. Continually update and maintain these preventive structures to ensure that they remain effective in keeping your dog away from the dangerous plant

This is especially important in changing seasons when new growth or other environmental factors might render your previous barriers less effective. The “Drop It” command can be very beneficial, as it gives you one last chance to get your dog to drop something harmful. Learn it now in the first section.

It’s best to get this problem handled as soon as you can, as doing so will also keep your dog safe around all other plants. You then won’t have to stress about things like is Agastache poisonous to dogs, is Ficus poisonous to dogs, is Penstemon toxic to dogs, or is Clusia toxic to dogs.

Dog-Safe Alternatives to Cherry Laurel

If you want to maintain an appealing garden without the risks associated with Cherry Laurel, there are plenty of dog-safe alternatives. Plants like asters, sunflowers, and marigolds are not only visually appealing but also safe for pets. Research each plant to ensure it’s a good fit for your yard and safe for your dog before making a decision.

Why Should Dogs Not Eat Random Plants?

Even plants that are non-toxic can pose risks to dogs. For example, certain plants might cause digestive discomfort, or a dog could choke on a hard seed or stem. Moreover, dogs cannot differentiate between safe and unsafe plants, so it’s crucial to train them to avoid eating foliage altogether.

In conclusion, keeping Cherry Laurel away from dogs is crucial due to the plant’s toxicity. Make sure to set up appropriate barriers and always supervise your pet when they are in the vicinity of such plants. Opting for dog-safe plants and training your dog to avoid eating random plants are crucial steps in ensuring your pet’s safety.

Cherry Laurels Care

Is Cherry Laurel Toxic to Dogs?

Caring for Cherry Laurels requires attention to watering, soil conditions, and light exposure. These evergreen shrubs are relatively easy to maintain but be cautious about having them anywhere near your pets, as Cherry Laurel is poisonous to dogs.

Cherry Laurel Care

Cherry Laurels are low-maintenance plants that thrive in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range. They prefer full sun to partial shade. Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry periods, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.

For optimal growth and blooming, fertilizing in the spring with a balanced fertilizer is beneficial.

Cherry Laurel Growth Rate

The growth rate of Cherry Laurel varies depending on the specific variety and the growing conditions you provide. Generally, they are fast-growing shrubs that can achieve significant heights within just a few years when properly cared for.

In ideal conditions, some varieties can grow as much as 24 inches per year, making them suitable for hedges or privacy screens.

Cherry Laurel Leaves

The leaves of the Cherry Laurel are glossy, dark green, and lanceolate in shape. They contain substances that are toxic to dogs if ingested. Pruning is typically recommended at least once a year to maintain the desired shape of the shrub, remove any dead or damaged leaves, and stimulate new growth.

Cherry Laurel Hardiness Zone

Cherry Laurels are versatile, hardy plants that thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. This means they are adaptable to a wide range of climates, from cold winters to hot, humid summers. Before planting, it’s advisable to check your local hardiness zone to ensure that Cherry Laurel is suitable for your specific geographic location.

Cherry Laurel Height & Size

The height and size of Cherry Laurels can vary significantly, from dwarf varieties to larger types that can reach up to 20 feet in height. Some types might only grow to heights of 3 to 4 feet. Understanding the specific variety’s growth patterns is important when selecting a Cherry Laurel for your landscape, as it will help you determine the best placement and spacing for the shrub.

Cherry Laurel Bloom Time

Cherry Laurels generally bloom in late spring or early summer, depending on local climate conditions. They produce small white flowers that are often fragrant. Following the bloom, small black fruits appear, which are toxic and should be kept out of reach from pets.

Factors such as soil quality and light exposure can affect the duration and timing of the blooming period.

Cherry Laurel Shade

Although Cherry Laurels can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, they prefer full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. They can tolerate fully shaded conditions, but doing so may slow down their growth rate and reduce flowering. It’s usually best to aim for at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day for these shrubs.

Is Cherry Laurel Evergreen?

Yes, Cherry Laurels are evergreen shrubs, retaining their leaves throughout the year. This feature makes them a popular choice for privacy hedges and year-round landscaping. However, the leaves can become discolored or drop if the plant is stressed due to factors such as insufficient watering or extreme temperatures.

Cherry Laurel Problems

Cherry Laurels can encounter several issues such as root rot due to overwatering, diseases like fire blight and powdery mildew, and pest infestations including aphids and scale. It’s crucial to monitor for signs of these problems and address them promptly.

Regular pruning to improve air circulation and proper watering techniques can help mitigate many of these issues.

In summary, Cherry Laurels are toxic to dogs and not safe for them to be around. They offer versatility in size and adaptability to different growing conditions, but it’s crucial to manage their potential problems proactively. Always consider pet safety when planting and maintaining Cherry Laurels.

Learn two commands that will help keep your dog safe around plants of all types by going back to the first section now.

I’m sure you’re ready to get started now that you have all of your questions about Cherry Laurel and dogs answered, so I’ll let you begin. Good luck, and thanks for reading our article “Is Cherry Laurel Poisonous to Dogs? Is Cherry Laurel Toxic to Dogs?”

The Author

KB Williams

KB Williams

Hey there! I'm a dog behavior expert and lover of travel. Since 2016, I've been sharing my knowledge of dog training and behavior while exploring the Pacific Northwest with my two rescues.