Flower Bouquets & Your Dog: What Pet Parents Should Know
Fresh flowers are one of the sweetest parts of any celebration — Valentine’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, or just because. But while bouquets brighten our homes, some of those beautiful blooms can pose risks to our dogs.
With gift‑giving season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to talk about which flowers are safe, which aren’t, and how to keep your pup protected.
Not All Flowers Are Dog‑Friendly
Many common bouquet flowers are perfectly harmless… but some can cause stomach upset, skin irritation, or more serious issues if chewed or swallowed.
A few flowers that can be unsafe for dogs include:
Lilies (some types are extremely dangerous for cats, and still risky for dogs)
Tulips
Daffodils
Hyacinths
Chrysanthemums
Baby’s breath (mildly toxic but very common in bouquets)
Peonies
Azaleas
Carnations (can cause mild irritation)
Even “mild” toxicity can lead to vomiting, drooling, or discomfort — and no one wants that for their pup.
Safe‑ish Flowers — With Supervision
Some flowers are considered low‑risk but can still cause stomach upset if eaten:
Roses (thorns are the real danger)
Sunflowers
Zinnias
Marigolds
Orchids
Even safe flowers can cause trouble if your dog decides to snack on them. Curious noses and playful paws can turn a bouquet into a chew toy in seconds.
Why Dogs Are Drawn to Bouquets
Dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths. Bouquets are:
New
Smelly
Colorful
Interesting
At the perfect height on tables or counters
Some dogs want to sniff. Some want to taste. Some want to knock the whole thing over just for fun.
Hidden Risks You Might Not Think About
It’s not just the flowers themselves. Bouquets often include:
Fertilizers
Preservative packets
Decorative grasses
Ribbons and string
Plastic picks
Glitter or dyes
All of these can cause stomach upset or choking hazards if chewed.
Even the water in the vase can become contaminated with plant material and bacteria.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Bouquets
A few simple habits can prevent problems:
Keep bouquets out of reach
Avoid lilies and other high‑risk flowers
Throw away fallen petals or leaves immediately
Don’t let dogs drink vase water
Choose pet‑safe arrangements when possible
Ask florists for dog‑friendly options
If your dog is a known counter‑surfer or plant‑chewer, consider keeping bouquets in a closed room or high shelf.
Enjoy the Beauty — Keep Your Pup Safe
Flowers are a lovely part of life, and you don’t have to give them up. With a little awareness and a few precautions, you can enjoy your bouquets while keeping your dog safe, healthy, and happy.
From romantic roses to spring tulips, just remember:
If it’s in your home, your dog will probably investigate it.
And that’s why a little knowledge goes a long way.
