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 Wahoo safe for dogs?
Euonymus occidentalis
Euonymus occidentalis, commonly known as the Western burning bush or Wahoo, is a deciduous shrub containing cardiac glycosides that are harmful if ingested. It is best kept out of reach of all household pets.
Euonymus occidentalisWahooWestern burning bush
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Habit
- Deciduous shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs — toxic. ASPCA lists wahoo (Euonymus) as toxic to dogs; the plant contains alkaloids and cardenolides, and the cardenolides can affect heart rhythm. Dogs that browse landscape shrubs in unfamiliar yards or chew on hedge cuttings are the typical poisoning cases.
What to watch for
ASPCA lists vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness as the common signs in dogs. With larger doses, heart-rhythm abnormalities are possible — watch for collapse, weakness that doesn't improve, pale gums, or labored breathing.
Time window
Exact onset and duration are not well documented in the ASPCA listing.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) right away on suspected ingestion. Any sign of weakness, an irregular or fast heartbeat, or vomiting that doesn't stop is reason to seek care immediately.
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential heart rate changes.
Escalation note
The plant contains compounds that may affect heart function and digestion. Seek veterinary attention promptly if your dog has consumed any part of this plant.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical name and distribution data for Euonymus occidentalis.
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