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 Hawthorn safe for dogs?
Crataegus species
Hawthorn is a genus of shrubs and trees in the rose family, widely recognized for their clusters of small, berry-like fruits known as haws. While generally considered safe for pets, the fibrous nature of the plant material can occasionally cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
CrataegusCrataegus speciesHawsThornapple
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Tree or shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs are safe around Hawthorn — the ASPCA classifies Crataegus species as non-toxic to dogs. A dog that grabs a few fallen berries off the lawn won't be poisoned; the bigger hazard is the long, sharp thorns on lower branches.
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 expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
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
Hawthorn is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Plants of the World Online - Crataegus
botanical · 95% reliability
Taxonomic record for the genus Crataegus L.
Questions about Hawthorn
Is hawthorn toxic to dogs?
Hawthorn (Crataegus species) is considered non-toxic to dogs. It is classified as generally safe, meaning no toxic principles are documented that would cause poisoning in dogs.
What happens if a dog eats hawthorn berries?
No toxic symptoms are expected from hawthorn ingestion. However, if a dog eats a large amount of the fibrous plant material or berries (haws), mild vomiting or diarrhea may occur simply due to the bulk of fibrous matter in the digestive tract.
How much hawthorn is dangerous for a dog?
Hawthorn has no known toxic threshold for dogs — it is not a poisonous plant. That said, non-toxic does not mean unlimited quantities are harmless; large ingestions of any fibrous plant material can cause temporary GI upset, so it is best to discourage dogs from gorging on haws or plant debris.
Should I call the vet if my dog ate hawthorn?
A small nibble of hawthorn is unlikely to require a vet call. If your dog has consumed a significant amount and is showing signs of distress such as repeated vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian — not because hawthorn is toxic, but because large amounts of fibrous plant material can cause discomfort that may need supportive care.
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