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 Bullbrier safe for dogs?
Smilax rotundifolia
Bullbrier is a hardy, woody vine native to North America, often recognized by its prickly stems and rounded leaves. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
CatbrierCommon GreenbrierRoundleaf GreenbrierSmilax rotundifolia
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Vining
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Bullbrier is safe for dogs — ASPCA lists Smilax rotundifolia as non-toxic to dogs with no toxic principle on file. Dogs in wooded yards sometimes mouth or pull at the climbing canes; that's a thorn-and-fiber problem rather than a toxicity one, and a brief bout of soft stool is the most you should expect after a chew.
Sources: ASPCA.
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 temporary digestive upset.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your dog consumes a significant amount of the plant and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Bullbrieris 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
Bullbrier (Smilax rotundifolia) is non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Smilax rotundifolia is a deciduous, woody vine known for its thorns and climbing habit.
Same dog verdict
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Cucurbita pepo
Acorn squash is a popular edible winter squash known for its ribbed, dark green skin and sweet, yellow-orange flesh. It is widely cultivated for culinary use and is considered safe for household pets.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Banana Squash
Cucurbita maxima var. banana
Banana squash is a large, edible winter squash variety known for its elongated shape and sweet, dense flesh. It is considered safe for household pets, though large ingestions of raw plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Bur Gourd
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Generally safe for cats & dogs.