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.
Sources
dog safety reference
Is Heartleaf Philodendron safe for dogs?
Philodendron hederaceum
Also known as Philodendron oxycardium
Heartleaf Philodendron is a popular trailing houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves and ease of care. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
CordatumHeartleaf PhilodendronPhilodendron hederaceumPhilodendron oxycardiumPhilodendron scandensSweetheart Plant
- Light
- Bright indirect to low light
- Habit
- Trailing or climbing
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs that mouth a heartleaf philodendron get an immediate burn from insoluble calcium oxalate crystals — the discomfort is what usually keeps the dog from eating more than a bite or two. Most cases are painful but mild and resolve within a day.
What to watch for
Pawing at the mouth, head shaking, foamy drooling, and lip-licking are most common, followed by oral or tongue swelling, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Marked swelling that interferes with breathing is rare but possible.
Time window
ASPCA does not publish exact timing; signs typically appear within minutes of chewing and most dogs recover within 24 hours with supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if you see visible swelling around the mouth, persistent drooling, repeated vomiting, or any change in breathing.
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
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
The plant causes localized irritation upon contact with the mouth and digestive tract. Please contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested any part of this plant.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Heartleaf Philodendron is toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
Questions about Heartleaf Philodendron
Is heartleaf philodendron toxic to dogs?
Yes, heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is toxic to dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating a philodendron?
Signs typically appear within minutes of chewing and include pawing at the mouth, head shaking, foamy or excessive drooling, and lip-licking. This can progress to oral or tongue swelling, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Marked swelling that interferes with breathing is rare but possible.
What should I do if my dog ate a heartleaf philodendron?
Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately if you see visible swelling around the mouth, persistent drooling, repeated vomiting, or any change in breathing. Most dogs recover within 24 hours with supportive care, but professional guidance is warranted given the risk of airway swelling.
How long do philodendron poisoning symptoms last in dogs?
According to the ASPCA, no exact timing window is published, but irritation typically begins within minutes of chewing. Most dogs recover within 24 hours with supportive care; symptoms that persist beyond that or include swelling affecting breathing require prompt veterinary attention.
Same dog verdict
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