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 Nightshade safe for dogs?
Solanum spp
Solanum species contain solanine and other alkaloids that can cause significant gastrointestinal and neurological distress if ingested. These plants are widely considered hazardous to household pets and should be kept out of reach.
Deadly NightshadeNightshadeSolanumSolanum spp
- Light
- Bright indirect to full sun
- Habit
- Vining or shrubby
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Most dog encounters with Nightshade end in mild stomach upset; the cited sources say a fairly large ingestion is usually needed for severe toxicity. The toxic compounds — solanine and atropine-like substances — are concentrated in leaves, stems, and unripe green berries rather than ripe fruit.
What to watch for
Most common: drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite. With larger ingestions: agitation or aggression, tremors, weakness, dilated pupils, or changes in heart rate or breathing.
Time window
Exact onset is not well documented in the cited sources; gastrointestinal signs typically appear within hours of ingestion.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) the same day for persistent GI signs, and immediately for tremors, agitation, dilated pupils, or any breathing or heart-rate change.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline (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
Excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, and potential neurological impairment such as loss of coordination.
Escalation note
The alkaloids present can cause rapid onset of clinical signs. Seek immediate veterinary attention 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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Nightshade is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of solanine.
Questions about Nightshade
Is nightshade toxic to dogs?
Yes, nightshade (Solanum spp.) is toxic to dogs. These plants contain solanine and other alkaloids that can cause significant gastrointestinal and neurological distress, and are classified as potentially hazardous to dogs.
What are the symptoms of nightshade poisoning in dogs?
Common signs include excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. With larger ingestions, dogs may show neurological symptoms such as loss of coordination, agitation, tremors, weakness, or dilated pupils — along with changes in heart rate or breathing.
What should I do if my dog ate nightshade?
Contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear. Seek emergency care right away if your dog shows tremors, agitation, dilated pupils, or any changes in breathing or heart rate; call the same day for persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
How quickly do nightshade symptoms appear in dogs?
Exact onset timing is not well documented, but gastrointestinal signs such as drooling and vomiting typically appear within hours of ingestion. Because the alkaloids can cause rapid onset of clinical signs, veterinary attention should be sought as soon as ingestion is suspected rather than waiting to see whether symptoms develop.
Same dog verdict
Related plants for dogs
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Cuban Oregano
Coleus amboinicus
The Bread and Butter plant is a succulent herb known for its aromatic, fleshy leaves often used in culinary applications. While popular as a kitchen herb, it contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.