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Dog Toxic Plants - Joe Pye Weed & Butterfly Weed #738823

Asked March 12, 2021, 6:45 PM EST

I have a dog, and was wondering if you could tell me if Joe Pye Weed or Butterfly Weed are toxic to dogs? I've seen varying reports in my Google searches. I have a couple of these plants in my backyard (recently moved to a new home) and would relocate them to another area of my yard that he can't get to, if so, since I know they're great for pollinators.

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for the question.

The toxicities of Joe Pye Weed and Butterfly Weed depend upon what parts of the plant are eaten and in what amounts. Just the mere physical presence of these plants in your garden would not be toxic to animals unless they actually ate the plants. Keep in mind that even common garden flowers such as tulips are considered toxic for dogs.  It is more appropriate that you discuss these matters with your vet. However, see the following:

http://deerfieldvetclinic.com/articles/plants-poisonous-to-your-pets/

https://www.wildflower.org/expert/show.php?id=8183&frontpage=true - :~:text=Butterfly weed, milkweed, chigger-,yes, the genus is poisonous.&text=Clinical signs of poisoning include,, incoordination, and violent seizures.

https://www.hunker.com/12431958/is-the-butterfly-plant-poisonous-to-animals-or-humans

Again, this really is a matter that should be the basis of a conversation between you and your vet.

Thanks for using this forum.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 14, 2021, 10:13 PM EDT

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