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Is Dusty Miller Poisonous to Dogs? Is Dusty Miller Toxic to Dogs?

Is Dusty Miller poisonous to dogs? Is Dusty Miller toxic to dogs? In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know about the subject of if Dusty Miller is safe for dogs to eat and what to do if they already have. We’re then going to teach you the two commands that will ensure your dog stays safe around Dusty Miller and other potentially poisonous plants.

Next, we’ll explain some more things you should know about Dusty Miller and dogs, such as how to keep dogs away from Dusty Miller using barriers and other methods. Finally, we’ll wrap all of this up by instructing you on Dusty Miller care when you have dogs around. Keep reading!

Is Dusty Miller Poisonous to Dogs?

Is Dusty Miller Poisonous to Dogs?

Dusty Miller is not poisonous to dogs. However, it’s generally a good idea to discourage your dog from eating any type of plant material, as it could cause minor digestive upset. It’s always advisable to train your dog to avoid contact with plants.

Is Dusty Miller Toxic to Dogs?

Dusty Miller is not toxic to dogs. The common garden plant known for its attractive silver foliage is not listed on the ASPCA’s list of toxic plants, which means it’s generally considered safe for dogs.

However, this doesn’t mean that it should be part of your pet’s diet. Your dog eating Dusty Miller or any other non-food plant can potentially lead to mild stomach upset or other gastrointestinal issues. It’s also not a good idea for them to get into the habit of eating plants because some actually will be toxic.

The “Leave It” Command

Training your dog to understand the “Leave It” command can be very useful in preventing them from ingesting plants like Dusty Miller. Here are steps on how to train this command:

  1. Hold a treat in your closed fist and present it to your dog. Say “leave it.”
  2. Wait for your dog to stop sniffing or pawing at your hand. They might look at you for guidance. When they do, praise them and give them a different treat from your other hand.
  3. Repeat this exercise several times, making it progressively more challenging by placing the treat on the floor or at a spot within their reach.

The “Drop It” Command

The “Drop It” command is another essential skill that could prevent your dog from ingesting non-food items. Here’s a simple way to train this command:

  1. While your dog is playing with a toy, approach them with a treat in your hand.
  2. Say “drop it” and show them the treat. Most dogs will drop the toy to get the treat. Once they drop the toy, praise them and give the treat.
  3. Practice this command in various situations and with different objects to ensure your dog can apply it when needed.

Dusty Miller is not poisonous to dogs, but it’s still best to prevent your pet from eating this or any other garden plant. These commands will help you do that, 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 are only going to 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 eating Dusty Miller 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 Dusty Miller ever again!

Is Dusty Miller Safe for Dogs?

Dusty Miller Safe for Dogs

Dusty Miller is safe for dogs generally and is not classified as a toxic plant. However, as with any non-food item, ingestion can potentially cause minor digestive upset. If your dog eats Dusty Miller, monitor for signs of discomfort and contact a vet if symptoms persist. As always, prevention is the best approach.

My Dog Ate Dusty Miller, What Do I Do?

If your dog ate Dusty Miller, don’t panic. Dusty Miller is not toxic to dogs, meaning that they’re unlikely to suffer serious harm. However, monitor your pet for any signs of discomfort or illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. If your dog shows these or any other unusual symptoms, contact your vet for advice.

Why Does My Dog Eat Dusty Miller?

Dogs may be attracted to plants for a variety of reasons, including boredom, hunger, or curiosity. Some dogs may find the texture of certain plants interesting or enjoyable to chew on. If you notice your dog showing interest in Dusty Miller or any other plants, it may be a sign that they need more stimulation through toys, play, or exercise.

Dog Eating Dusty Miller: How to Prevent

Preventing your dog eating Dusty Miller or any other plants requires a mix of supervision, training, and providing alternatives. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep an eye on your dog when they’re in the garden and redirect their attention if they show interest in plants.
  • Train your dog to understand commands like “leave it” and “drop it”, which can help deter them from eating plants. Learn both in the first section.
  • Provide your dog with plenty of chew toys and ensure they get enough exercise to prevent boredom, which can sometimes lead to destructive behaviors like chewing on plants.

In conclusion, Dusty Miller is safe for dogs generally, but it’s always best to keep your pet from eating non-food plants. Monitor your dog’s behavior, provide them with appropriate toys and exercise, and train them to respond to commands that can prevent them from eating plants.

If you notice any changes in your dog’s health or behavior after they’ve ingested Dusty Miller, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.

You should fix this issue now as doing so will ensure that your dog is also safe around other potentially toxic plants. You then won’t have to get stressed about things like is Lobelia poisonous to dogs, is Verbena poisonous to dogs, is Calibrachoa poisonous to dogs, or is Lantana toxic to dogs.

Dusty Miller and Dogs

Dusty Miller and Dogs

Dusty Miller is not poisonous to dogs. However, it’s always best to keep our furry friends away from garden plants as ingestion can cause mild stomach upset. Barriers, training, and alternative distractions are all good methods to keep dogs away from Dusty Miller plants.

How to Keep Dogs Away From Dusty Miller

Using barriers can be an effective way to keep your dog away from Dusty Miller. Fencing, plant cages, or even strategically placed garden furniture can serve as deterrents. Remember, the barrier should be sturdy enough to withstand your dog’s curiosity and attempts to reach the plant.

Training Your Dog to Stay Away From Plants

Training is an important part of pet ownership and can be especially helpful in preventing unwanted behaviors. Basic commands such as “leave it” or “drop it” can work wonders in keeping your dog away from Dusty Miller and other plants. Learn both now in the first section.

Providing Alternative Distractions

Another effective way to keep your dog away from Dusty Miller is to provide them with alternative distractions. This could include a variety of toys, a digging box, or even their own patch of grass or plants to sniff and explore. Ensuring they get plenty of exercise can also help reduce their interest in your plants, as a tired dog is usually a well-behaved dog.

In conclusion, while Dusty Miller is safe for dogs, it is always best to prevent them from eating non-food items. You can keep your dog away from Dusty Miller by using physical barriers, effective training, and providing plenty of alternative distractions.

As always, monitor your dog’s health and behavior, and consult a vet if you notice any changes.

Dusty Miller Care

Is Dusty Miller Toxic to Dogs?

Dusty Miller is a low-maintenance plant, preferring full sun and well-draining soil. It is a perennial in warmer climates, and in colder zones, it can be used as an annual or grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.

Dusty Miller: Sun or Shade?

Dusty Miller plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. These silver-leaved plants are quite flexible and will still grow under partial shade, although they may not produce as many flowers.

Is Dusty Miller a Perennial?

Dusty Miller is a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 8-10. In these warmer climates, it can survive year-round, showcasing its beautiful silver foliage continuously. In colder climates, it is often grown as an annual and replanted each year.

Dusty Miller Plant Care

Caring for Dusty Miller is relatively easy. These plants thrive in well-drained soil and require moderate watering. During the growing season, you may want to fertilize occasionally for best results. If the plants become leggy, pruning them back can encourage a bushier growth.

Will Dusty Miller Survive Winter?

In warmer climates (USDA zones 8-10), Dusty Miller will usually survive the winter. In colder climates, they can die back but may return in spring if the winter was not overly harsh. Providing some winter protection, such as a thick layer of mulch, can help them survive in borderline zones.

Dusty Miller in Containers

Growing Dusty Miller in containers is an excellent option, especially for those living in colder climates. Containers make it easy to move the plants indoors during the winter months, ensuring their survival. They also make a striking addition to mixed plantings with their silvery foliage providing a beautiful contrast.

In summary, Dusty Miller is a versatile and low-maintenance plant. Whether grown in the ground or in containers, they add a unique touch of silver to your garden. Their ability to survive in different conditions with minimal care makes them a great choice for gardeners of all experience levels.

Always remember to provide them with plenty of sun, well-drained soil, and appropriate winter care depending on your climate. Learn to keep your dog away from them (and other plants) by going back to the first section now.

I’m sure you’re ready to put this all behind so that you won’t have to wonder anymore about Dusty Miller and dogs, so I’ll let you get started. Good luck, and thanks for reading our article “Is Dusty Miller Poisonous to Dogs? Is Dusty Miller 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.