Dogs
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
dog safety reference
Is English Hawthorn safe for dogs?
Crataegus laevigata
English Hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its clusters of white or pink flowers and red berries. While generally considered safe for pets, it is not intended for consumption.
Crataegus laevigataCrataegus oxyacanthaMidland HawthornWoodland Hawthorn
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Deciduous shrub or small tree
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs are safe around English Hawthorn. ASPCA lists no toxic principle for canines; in yards the realistic hazard is mechanical — long branch thorns can puncture a paw pad or muzzle if a dog crashes through the hedge.
Sources: 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
None typically expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
English Hawthornis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
English Hawthorn is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted scientific name and distribution for Crataegus laevigata.
Questions about English Hawthorn
Is English Hawthorn toxic to dogs?
English Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata) is considered non-toxic to dogs. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it is not expected to cause poisoning if your dog chews on the leaves, flowers, or berries.
What happens if a dog eats English Hawthorn berries or leaves?
Ingesting small amounts is unlikely to cause any reaction. If your dog eats a large quantity of the fibrous plant material, mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea is possible due to the bulk of plant matter, not any toxic compound.
How much English Hawthorn would my dog need to eat to get sick?
There is no documented toxic dose because the plant is non-toxic. Problems, if any, are linked to large-volume ingestion causing GI upset — not to a specific toxin threshold. A dog that grazes briefly is very unlikely to show any symptoms at all.
My dog ate part of an English Hawthorn — should I call the vet?
A small nibble does not warrant an emergency call. Monitor your dog for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy; if those signs appear or your dog consumed a large amount and seems distressed, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
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