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  • 10 Best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants in 2022 (Veterinary Technician-Reviewed) 1
  • 10 Best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants in 2022 (Veterinary Technician-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants in 2022 (Veterinary Technician-Reviewed) 3
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10 Best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants in 2022 (Veterinary Technician-Reviewed)

Do you like to keep plants inside your home but are worried they'll harm your dog? Consider getting dog-safe indoor plants that can add beauty to your home and improve indoor air quality without posing a risk to your pet. Although you'll want to check with your vet, there are some indoor plants that are known to be safe for dogs.


Our 10 best list includes many known safe species, including our number one pick, the cast iron plant from American Exchange. It's easy to care for and adds a classic dark, green leafy look to any room. Also, be sure to check out our buying guide, which was reviewed by a veterinary technician, for tips on how to select an indoor plant that's non-toxic for dogs and fits your aesthetic needs. Let's get started with our list of top dog-safe indoor plants!

Last updated 09/26/2023
Cheyenne Williams
Expert
Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care
Cheyenne Williams

Cheyenne Williams is a Certified Veterinary Assistant, currently enrolled in college for veterinary technology, working in vet hospitals since she was 16. She is also the owner of Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care in Sarasota, Florida, founded in 2015. Cheyenne has worked with professionals from pet sitters and groomers to veterinary specialists in a hospital setting.

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mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose Dog-Safe Indoor Plants

When looking for dog-safe plants, you should ask your vet for recommendations, learn which plants to avoid, consider where to place the plant(s), and think about their care needs.

1

Ask Your Veterinarian to Ensure Your Dog's Safety

Ask Your Veterinarian to Ensure Your Dog's Safety

Before buying a plant for your indoor space, ask your veterinarian what plants are safe and not safe for dogs. They may be able to provide you with a list of plants that are common in your area or some other resource to help you. You can also bring plant names and pictures to your vet and ask them whether they're dog-safe.


Some vets may also know of apps you can use to upload pictures taken with your smartphone's camera. These apps, like FlowerChecker or NatureGate, can instantly tell you what type of plant you're looking at. Apps can help if you're shopping for plants in person and want to check before you buy.

2

Consult Guides of Plants to Avoid

Consult Guides of Plants to Avoid

Organizations like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and websites like Rover have online guides you can look at. You may also be able to ask a local extension office or botanist who's knowledgeable about indoor plants that are commonly sold in your region.


Some guides contain lists and pictures of common indoor plants that are poisonous to dogs, along with the symptoms they're likely to experience if they eat them. Some plants are more harmful than others and can lead to severe symptoms, including kidney and liver failure.


Other guides list household plants that are safe for dogs, although it's best if dogs do not eat any plants. Eating plants, even if they are dog-safe, can lead to upset stomachs, vomiting, and stool changes. Some plants that are toxic to dogs include azaleas, tulips, sago palms, and geraniums.


Upset stomachs, diarrhea, and vomiting are common side effects of eating poisonous plants. Azaleas can cause low pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. Tulips and sago palms can lead to more serious effects like depression and organ failure. Make sure to always monitor your dog's condition and take them to the vet if they exhibit any unusual symptoms.

Cheyenne Williams
Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care
Cheyenne Williams

In addition to keeping an eye out for poisonous plants, you'll also want to make sure the plant you select is safe for your dog to chew on. Some plants have sharp edges that can cut your dog's mouth or digestive tract, while others may be harmful if ingested. Choose a plant that has soft leaves and is not easily broken.

3

Think About Placement

Think About Placement

If your dog likes to eat plants, it may be a good idea to keep the plants out of reach, since even dog-safe plants can cause upset stomachs. Look for high areas in your home that are too high for your dog to reach. For example, place your plants on windowsills, the top of cabinets, or on ledges.


Don't forget to consider the behavior and tendencies of your dog when deciding where to place a plant. If your dog is naturally curious and prone to jumping, choose a high and inaccessible placement.  You can also use plant stands and barriers if you want to keep plants on the floor to prevent your dog from interacting with the plants.


You can minimize the number of indoor plants you place in rooms your dog spends more time in. You may find it's easier to only have artificial plants or none at all in areas like the living room and kitchen, where your dog may frequently hang out.


Some dog owners find it easier to place indoor plants in rooms where they can restrict access by shutting doors or installing barriers like gates. If your dog is left at home during the day or when you run errands, you might want to consider crate training as an added precaution. 

Cheyenne Williams
Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care
Cheyenne Williams

If you have a pet that's prone to chewing on plants, you might want to grow dog-safe varieties in hanging baskets or elevated planters. This way, your four-legged friend can't reach the plants even if they jump up or stand on their hind legs. If you live in an apartment or another type of residence where it's not possible to restrict your dog's access to certain rooms, don't worry. There are still plenty of indoor plants that are safe for dogs.

4

Choose Known Non-Toxic Plants You Have Time to Care For

Choose Known Non-Toxic Plants You Have Time to Care For

Many people like to have plants in their homes since they add personality and beauty. Indoor plants can also provide benefits such as reduced stress, better indoor air quality, and increased productivity. Some of the plants that are non-toxic to dogs include bamboo, blue daisy, cane palm, and Japanese holly fern.


You can consult the ASPCA's full online list and research which one may be best for your home based on the look, size, and care needs. You'll want to research the water and sunlight requirements for the plants you're interested in and consider which areas of your home can meet those needs.


Consider whether you'll have the room and time to care for the plant as it grows. The plant might grow a lot bigger than it is upon arrival, so check how big a plant is expected to grow. If you have a busy lifestyle, try to find a non-toxic plant that's low maintenance. Bamboo palm, spider plants, and Boston ferns are examples.


If a plant needs a lot of sunlight, it's probably best to have space near an uncovered glass patio or a windowsill with enough light and space. Some plants may need daily watering or to be watered every few days. As plants grow, they may also need to be repotted.

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10 Best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants Ranking

Here are the best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants, ranked according to 10 Best Dog-Safe Indoor Plants (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

American Plant Exchange

Cast Iron Plant

American Plant Exchange Cast Iron Plant 1

$19.97

Mid

Low-Maintenance and Good for Beginners

2

Costa Farms

Majesty Palm Tree

Costa Farms Majesty Palm Tree 1

$34.38

High Mid

Ideal for Living or Sunrooms

3

Plants for Pets

Assorted Succulent Plants

Plants for Pets Assorted Succulent Plants 1

$17.44

Low Mid

Ideal for Small Spaces and Windowsills

4

Costa Farms

Money Tree

Costa Farms Money Tree 1

$33.83

High Mid

Tall and Resilient

5

JM Bamboo

Braided Style Lucky Bamboo Plant

JM Bamboo Braided Style Lucky Bamboo Plant 1

$29.99

High Mid

A Symbol of Prosperity

6

JM Bamboo

Miniature African Violet

JM Bamboo Miniature African Violet  1

$23.99

Mid

Small Plants for Windowsills, Mantels, or Accent Tables

7

Hirt's Gardens

Reverse Variegated Spider Plant

Hirt's Gardens Reverse Variegated Spider Plant 1

$13.99

Low Mid

Purifies Indoor Air and is Easy to Grow

8

Bonnie Plants

Catnip

Bonnie Plants Catnip 1

$5.78

Low

A Natural Mosquito Repellant

9

American Plant Exchange

Ponytail Palm

American Plant Exchange Ponytail Palm 1

$27.96

High Mid

Low Maintenance and Strong-Willed

10

California Tropicals

Rattlesnake Plant

California Tropicals Rattlesnake Plant 1

$16.99

Low Mid

Great for the Home Office

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

American Plant ExchangeCast Iron Plant

Cast Iron Plant 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.97
Mid
Reference price
$19.97
Mid

Low-Maintenance and Good for Beginners

If you don't have a lot of experience caring for plants or don't have a lot of time to devote to plant care, the cast iron plant is for you. The plant will grow in full shade conditions and only needs a little light. It doesn't need much water either; once every few days to a week will suffice. And of course, it's completely safe for not just dogs, but most pets.


Some reviewers complained that their plant arrived in bad condition. Bugs and yellow leaves were some issues they mentioned. On the other hand, the majority of reviewers were happy with their purchase. They said the plant was healthy and grew larger even in low light conditions.

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No.2

Costa FarmsMajesty Palm Tree

Majesty Palm Tree 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$34.38
High Mid
Reference price
$34.38
High Mid

Ideal for Living or Sunrooms

This plant is non-toxic to pets and can add a nice accent to a living room with a patio or a sunroom. It's a large plant, starting at three feet tall. As a member of the palm family, this tree will add a tropical flair to your home while improving the room's air quality.


Some reviewers were disappointed that they received the plant with either overly dry or overly wet soil. Meanwhile, most reviewers were impressed with how stunning the plant was. They said it stayed healthy and big, and was definitely worthy of its name!

No.3

Plants for PetsAssorted Succulent Plants

Assorted Succulent Plants 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$17.44
Low Mid
Reference price
$17.44
Low Mid

Ideal for Small Spaces and Windowsills

This assorted set comes with five succulent plants. Common varieties include hens, chicks, and echeveria. You can place them in tight spots where you want to add personality or decor. They don't require much care, only to be watered once a week or month, and they can grow in all light conditions.


A few reviewers found that their plants had died or were close to death upon arrival. Others noted the colors weren't as vibrant as they expected.


Still, the majority of reviewers liked that the plants were easy to care for and that the company supports animal shelters and rescues. They also appreciated that the plants were small and could be placed anywhere.

No.4

Costa FarmsMoney Tree

Money Tree 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$33.83
High Mid
Reference price
$33.83
High Mid

Tall and Resilient

Some believe a money tree can bring good fortune to your home. Either way, the twisted trunk and dark green leaves provide a unique and classic aesthetic. The tree does best with indirect exposure to sunlight and occasional watering.


Some reviewers complained that they received trees with wilted leaves and an unhealthy look. A few had problems keeping the plant alive after a few weeks or months. On the other hand, many reviewers were happy with the tree, saying it looked beautiful and stayed healthy. They also appreciated that it came with a bot and pebble stones.

No.5

JM BambooBraided Style Lucky Bamboo Plant

Braided Style Lucky Bamboo Plant 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.99
High Mid
Reference price
$29.99
High Mid

A Symbol of Prosperity

The lucky bamboo plant is said to bring good luck and fortune. This plant is between 10 and 12 inches and grows in standing water. It's relatively easy to care for and is long-lasting. Just water it weekly and make sure it gets a bit of sunlight.


A few reviewers warned that the plant was smaller than it looked in the pictures. Still, the majority liked the decorative elements of the plant, saying it looked very nice and stylish in their homes. They also found the plant to be resilient and easy to care for.

No.6

JM BambooMiniature African Violet

Miniature African Violet  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$23.99
Mid
Reference price
$23.99
Mid

Small Plants for Windowsills, Mantels, or Accent Tables

These African violets come in a set of three and are small enough to fit on top of fireplaces, tables, on windowsills, and more. The flowers can bloom in purple, white, or pale blue. These plants do best in indirect sunlight and with soil that is kept moist.


A handful of reviewers reported problems with the plants arriving dead or in unhealthy conditions. But the majority of reviewers were delighted that the plants bloomed quickly. They liked the colors of the flowers and said they were adorable.

No.7

Hirt's GardensReverse Variegated Spider Plant

Reverse Variegated Spider Plant 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$13.99
Low Mid

Purifies Indoor Air and is Easy to Grow

Spider plants are versatile, and you can hang this one from the ceiling or put it in a medium-sized pot to decorate any surface. It grows best with partial sunlight and partial shade. It likes to be watered often, up to four times a week if the soil is dry.


Some reviewers were displeased that the plant was smaller than expected and that they would need to wait years for it to grow to their desired size. Others experienced difficulties getting the plant to grow and thrive.


The majority of reviewers liked the appearance of the plant and found success by repotting it as it grew. A few buyers used distilled water instead of tap and experienced good, healthy growth.

A Natural Mosquito Repellant

This is a pack of herb plants that grow best from spring to fall. Catnip is a natural mosquito repellent and thrives best in partial shade. These herbs are good starter plants for those who can keep up with a regular water schedule but have limited space. While catnip is most know for being cat-friendly, it's also safe for dogs!


Some reviewers complained that their plants arrived in poor condition, saying this purchase was a bit of a gamble. Meanwhile many were happy with the plants, saying they were strong as well as pet-approved.

No.9

American Plant ExchangePonytail Palm

Ponytail Palm 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$27.96
High Mid
Reference price
$27.96
High Mid

Low Maintenance and Strong-Willed

This ponytail palm is a good indoor plant to have if you don't have a green thumb. It can survive for weeks without water, although it appreciates a little of it about once a week. It can grow without sunlight, but will thrive if fully exposed to it.


Some buyers said the soil was extremely dry when they received the plant. A few also noted that it didn't look much like the picture in the Amazon listing. On the other hand, many praised the plant for its full size and vibrant color

No.10

California TropicalsRattlesnake Plant

Reference price
$16.99
Low Mid

Great for the Home Office

If you've got windowsills or a home office with desk room, this rattlesnake plant can make a great addition. Its interesting visual pointers can add flair to a room with little effort. It does best in shade and indirect light conditions, so keep it out of the sun.


A handful of reviewers noted that the plant was much smaller than it appeared to be in the picture. Fortunately, most said it arrived in good condition and was healthy and beautiful. Many reviewers shared their own pictures to show off their plants!

Cheyenne's Recommended Dog-Safe Plant

Cheyenne Williams
Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care
Cheyenne Williams

Spider plants are my favorite, they are a wonderful beginner plant. The spider plant purifies the air in your home or workplace by absorbing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene. In addition, spider plants are non-toxic, making them safe for dogs and children.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Poisonous Plant

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Poisonous Plant

In most cases, you should not try to treat your pet with home remedies or wait it out. If you believe your pet has eaten something toxic, the best thing is to call your vet or an emergency pet clinic. Try to provide as much information as you can about the plant, including any pictures and known names.


Don't forget to keep a record of your dog's symptoms and behaviors, including its energy levels. You can also call animal poison control hotlines like the one run by the ASPCA. Some of these hotlines are open 24 hours every day.


You can reach the ASPCA's hotline at 1-888-426-4435. With information about the plant and your dog's symptoms, you can get advice on whether immediate vet care is needed.

Cheyenne Williams
Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care
Cheyenne Williams

If you can't get hold of a hotline, head to the vet or emergency animal hospital immediately. Time is crucial when it comes to treating pets for poisoning, so don't delay. If you have a pet emergency fund, now is the time to use it. And if you don't have one, start saving! Pet emergencies can be expensive, and they often happen when we least expect it.

Frequently Asked Questions

In addition to checking our buying guide for accuracy, Cheyenne took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about dog-safe plants.

Which plants are toxic to dogs?

Cheyene says, "The top 10 toxic houseplants for dogs include lilies, azaleas and rhododenrons, sago palms, tulips, hydrangeas, peace lilies, Devil’s Ivy or pothos, lantana, daffodils, and hostas."

What are some dog-safe plants that repel mosquitos?

"Some dog-safe plants that repel mosquitos include basil, catnip, lemon balm, and rosemary," Cheyenne advised us.

More Ways to Care for Your Dog

Give your dog the best treatment with these recommendations. This way, you can make sure your dog is always healthy and happy!

Buying Guide Reviewed By Veterinary Technician Cheyenne Williams

Cheyenne Williams
Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care
Cheyenne Williams

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Dog-Safe Indoor Plants

No. 1: American Plant ExchangeCast Iron Plant

No. 2: Costa FarmsMajesty Palm Tree

No. 3: Plants for PetsAssorted Succulent Plants

No. 4: Costa FarmsMoney Tree

No. 5: JM BambooBraided Style Lucky Bamboo Plant

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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