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 Meadow Buttercup safe for dogs?
Ranunculus acris
Ranunculus acris is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its bright yellow flowers and presence in meadows. It contains compounds that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion.
Common ButtercupFigwortRanunculus acrisTall Buttercup
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Clumping herbaceous perennial
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs grazing in pastures or on lawn weeds sometimes mouth meadow buttercup. The plant releases protoanemonin from ranunculin when chewed — a bitter, blistering oil. Pet Poison Helpline notes that the bitter taste usually limits how much a dog will eat, but determined grazers (especially puppies and bored outdoor dogs) can still get a mouthful.
What to watch for
Most common: drooling, mouth pawing, and refusing food. Then: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and a wobbly gait. Flowers contain more toxin than the leaves, so a dog that grabs a bloom is at higher risk than one that brushes a leaf.
Time window
Oral irritation appears within minutes; GI signs typically within a few hours. Pet Poison Helpline characterizes buttercup poisoning as self-limiting in most dogs, with recovery in 24–48 hours after supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) if your dog ate more than a single mouthful, is drooling persistently, has visible mouth blisters, vomits more than once, or seems unsteady. A nibble that's spit out can usually be watched at home.
First aid at home
Remove your dog from the area and take any plant pieces out of the mouth. Do NOT give home antidotes and do NOT induce vomiting unless told to by your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Confirm your dog is breathing and acting normally, then call the helpline or your vet for guidance.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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
Excessive salivation, mouth blistering, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Escalation note
The plant contains protoanemonin, which is irritating to mucous membranes. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
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 Ranunculus acris.
Same dog verdict
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