Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
dog safety reference
Is Begonia safe for dogs?
Begonia spp.
Begonias are popular ornamental plants known for their diverse foliage and vibrant flowers. They contain soluble calcium oxalates which can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Begonia spp.Rex BegoniaTuberous BegoniaWax Begonia
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Mounding or trailing
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs — toxic. NC State Extension and ASPCA both flag begonia as a problem plant for dogs, with the underground tubers carrying the highest concentration of soluble calcium oxalates. Dogs are more likely than cats to dig and actually swallow tuber material, so the picture is often more severe than 'just chewed a leaf.'
What to watch for
Expect drooling, vomiting, and decreased appetite shortly after ingestion. Some dogs paw at the mouth from oral irritation. NC State also notes the sap can cause skin irritation, so watch for redness or scratching where leaves contacted the muzzle, paws, or belly.
Time window
Oral signs typically begin within minutes of chewing; vomiting usually within an hour or two. Recovery time is not well documented in the cited sources, but uncomplicated leaf-ingestion cases generally improve within 24 hours.
When to call the vet
Call your vet right away if your dog dug up a tuber, is vomiting more than once, refuses food for more than a few hours, or develops swelling around the mouth. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435.
Sources: NC State Extension, ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Drooling, vomiting, decreased appetite, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips.
Escalation note
Ingestion of the plant, particularly the underground tubers, can cause significant oral discomfort. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed this plant.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Begonia is a large genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae.
Questions about Begonia
Are begonias toxic to dogs?
Yes, begonias are toxic to dogs. They contain soluble calcium oxalates that cause irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, along with drooling, vomiting, and decreased appetite if ingested.
What part of a begonia is most dangerous to dogs?
The underground tubers are the most dangerous part — ingestion of the tubers can cause significant oral discomfort beyond what a leaf nibble would. Keep dogs away from freshly dug or potted begonias where tubers are accessible.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating a begonia?
Expect drooling, vomiting, and decreased appetite within minutes to a couple of hours of ingestion. Some dogs paw at the mouth from oral irritation. The sap can also cause skin redness or scratching if leaves contacted the muzzle, paws, or belly.
What should I do if my dog ate a begonia?
Rinse your dog's mouth with water to reduce oral irritation, then monitor closely. Call your vet right away if your dog dug up a tuber, vomits more than once, refuses food for more than a few hours, or develops swelling around the mouth. You can also reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Uncomplicated leaf-ingestion cases generally improve within 24 hours.
Same dog verdict
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