Is Verbena Toxic to Dogs? Is Verbena Poisonous to Dogs?
Is Verbena toxic to dogs? Is Verbena poisonous to dogs? In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about this subject including if Verbena is safe for dogs to eat and what to do if they already have. We’ll then explain how to do the two commands that will keep your dog safe around Verbena and other potentially toxic plants.
Next, we’ll go over more things you should know about Verbena and dogs, such as how to keep dogs away from Verbena using barriers and other methods. Finally, we’ll wrap all of this up by instructing you on how to grow Verbena when you have dogs around. Keep reading!
Is Verbena Toxic to Dogs?
Verbena is not toxic to dogs. However, if a dog eats a significant amount of this plant, it may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting or diarrhea. It’s also important to not let your dog get into the habit of eating plants, as some actually will be toxic.
Is Verbena Poisonous to Dogs?
Verbena is not poisonous to dogs according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). This means that it doesn’t contain any specific toxins that are known to harm dogs. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe for your dog to consume.
Dogs have different digestive systems than humans, and eating plants (especially in larger quantities) can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset, so it’s best to not allow it at all.
Training “Leave It” Command
To help prevent your dog from eating Verbena, or any other plants, training your dog to understand the “leave it” command can be very helpful. Follow these steps to train your dog:
- Show your dog one enclosed fist with a treat inside.
- Say “leave it.”
- Ignore the behaviors your dog exhibits trying to get the treat.
- Once they stop and move away, give them the treat from the other hand.
- Repeat until your dog moves away from the first fist when you say “leave it.”
Training “Drop It” Command
Similarly, the “drop it” command is another critical command that can keep your dog safe. To train your dog to follow this command, use the following steps:
- Start training by playing a game of fetch with a toy.
- Once your dog has the toy in their mouth, hold a treat to their nose.
- Say “drop it.”
- When they drop the toy, give them the treat.
- Repeat this process until your dog drops the toy on command, even without the treat.
While Verbena is not toxic to dogs, it’s best to prevent your dog from eating it or any plant material to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset. 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 Verbena 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 Verbena ever again!
Is Verbena Safe for Dogs?
Verbena is safe for dogs and is not toxic to them. While these plants are generally safe, dogs that ingest large quantities might experience mild gastrointestinal upset. It’s always a good idea to prevent your dog from eating plants to avoid potential issues.
Why Does My Dog Eat Verbena?
Dogs may be attracted to Verbena due to its strong fragrance and the plant’s interesting texture. Moreover, some dogs may eat plants out of boredom or as part of exploratory behavior. While Verbena is not toxic to dogs, eating it in large amounts could potentially lead to a mild stomach upset.
Dog Ate Verbena, What Do I Do?
If your dog ate Verbena, there’s typically no need to panic, as Verbena is not toxic to dogs. However, keep an eye on your pet for any signs of gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet displays any of these symptoms or if they ate a large amount of Verbena, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.
Dog Eating Verbena Prevention
Prevention is always the best course of action. To prevent your dog eating Verbena, you could create physical barriers around the plant, such as fences or enclosures. Alternatively, training commands like “leave it” or “drop it” can be beneficial. Learn how to do both in the first section.
Providing your dog with plenty of physical and mental stimulation can also help curb their desire to eat plants.
In conclusion, while Verbena is safe for dogs generally, it’s best to avoid letting your dog eat it or any other plant material. Consuming plants could lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. If your dog ate Verbena and shows signs of distress, it’s essential to contact your vet for advice.
Keeping your dog entertained and physically active can also help discourage them from eating plants.
You should get this handled now, as doing so will ensure that your dog is always safe around other possibly toxic plants. You then won’t have to worry about things like is Lobelia toxic to dogs, is Calibrachoa toxic to dogs, is Lantana poisonous to dogs, or is Dusty Miller poisonous to dogs.
Verbena and Dogs
Verbena is not toxic to dogs and generally, poses no significant health risks. However, some dogs may experience a mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest large amounts. Therefore, it’s still a good idea to keep your dog away from Verbena to avoid potential issues.
How to Keep Dogs Away From Verbena
There are several methods you can employ to keep your dog away from your Verbena plants. You can set up physical barriers like a garden fence or use plant cages. Alternatively, using deterrent sprays with non-toxic, unpleasant tastes can discourage your dog from nibbling on the plants.
The Importance of Training
Training your dog to understand commands like “leave it” or “drop it” can be an effective way to control their behavior around Verbena plants. Learn both now in the first section. These commands can stop them from eating the plant in the first place or let them drop the plant if they have it in their mouth.
Alternatives to Verbena
If you find it difficult to keep your dog away from Verbena, you might consider swapping your plants for ones that are more suitable for dogs. There are many dog-friendly plants available that can provide the same aesthetic appeal as Verbena without the risk of mild gastrointestinal upset.
In conclusion, while Verbena is not poisonous to dogs, it’s still wise to prevent your dog from eating these plants. You can achieve this through physical barriers, training, or replacing Verbena with dog-friendly alternatives. If your dog eats Verbena and shows signs of discomfort, contact your vet for advice.
Remember that your dog’s safety and health should always be the priority when planning your garden.
How to Grow Verbena
Growing Verbena involves planting in a sunny location, providing well-draining soil, watering moderately, and regular pruning to encourage further blooming. Verbenas are sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants known for their vibrant colors and long blooming season, making them an ideal choice for both garden beds and containers.
- Choosing the Location: Verbena thrives in full sun, needing a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. It’s an ideal plant for sunny garden beds, rock gardens, or containers positioned in a bright location. Being heat tolerant, Verbena does well in a variety of climates, provided they have enough sunlight exposure.
- Preparing the Soil: Verbena prefers well-draining soil, which helps prevent root rot and other diseases related to over-watering. The soil should also be rich in organic matter. Before planting, you can enrich your garden soil with compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients for the Verbena’s growth.
- Planting the Verbena: Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the Verbena’s root ball. Place the plant into the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is at the same level as the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil and press firmly around the base of the plant to ensure it’s well anchored.
- Watering and Pruning: After planting, water the Verbena thoroughly, and continue to water regularly but moderately, as this plant prefers soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Let the soil dry out between waterings. Pruning is also essential in growing Verbena. Regularly deadheading the spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the season.
Growing Verbena is a great way to add long-lasting color and charm to your garden. With their striking flowers and long blooming season, Verbenas are sure to be a beautiful and rewarding addition to your outdoor space. Learn to keep your dog away from by going back to the first section.
I’m sure you’re looking forward to having this behind you so that your Verbena and dogs can both thrive, so I’ll let you get started. Good luck, and thank you for reading our article “Is Verbena Toxic to Dogs? Is Verbena Poisonous to Dogs?”