You've probably heard that a green thumb isn't just a euphemism—it's a real skill. And if you're like most of us, you might not have quite enough of that skill to keep your garden flourishing. But what if we told you that you could bring some of those plants inside?
That's right: many plants are perfectly content indoors, and some even help improve our air quality. Not to mention, they can add a little bit of happiness to our day-to-day lives. Today, we're going to introduce you to a few of our favorite dog-friendly plants.
Why Plants Matter in a Dog-Friendly Home
You might be wondering why we're talking about plants in a post about dog-friendly homes. The answer is simple: Plants make a home feel like home.
A well-placed plant can brighten up any room, and it can help to reduce stress levels. They also act as a natural air purifier, which is important for dog owners since dogs can be very sensitive to allergens.
But not all plants are created equal. Some plants are better suited for homes with pets than others. So we've put together a list of some of our favorite dog-friendly plants that will make your home feel warm and welcoming—no matter how many furry friends you have running around.
Dog-Friendly Foliage for Outdoor Spaces
Not all plants are pet-friendly, but that doesn't mean you have to avoid foliage altogether. There are plenty of dog-friendly plants that will make your outdoor space look great, and they're perfect for pet owners.
Some of our favorites include:
• Lavender: This perennial is aromatic and attracts butterflies and bees. It's also deer-resistant, so you don't have to worry about Fido taking a nibble.
• English Ivy: Ivy is a versatile plant that can be used as a ground cover, hanging planter or even a topiary. It's also deer-resistant and can help filter the air.
• Spider Plant: This easy-to-grow plant thrives in bright light and is often used to combat indoor air pollution. Plus, it's one of the few plants that are safe for cats and dogs.
No matter what type of foliage you choose, make sure to research the specific plant to make sure it's safe for pets. With a little bit of planning, you can create an outdoor space that both you and your four-legged friend can enjoy.
Flowering Plants Safe for Dogs
There are plenty of flowering plants that are safe for your pup. In fact, many of them make great additions to your garden. Some safe plants to consider include:
Lilies: These flowers are beautiful, but they can be deadly to cats. Dogs aren't as affected, but it's important to keep any lilies out of reach just in case.
Sunflowers: Not only do these cheerful flowers attract bees and other pollinators, but they're also safe for dogs.
Marigolds: These plants are often used in gardens to deter pests, and they're also safe for dogs.
Petunias: These flowers come in a variety of colors, and they're all safe for dogs.
Introducing Indoor Plants to a Canine Environment
If you're thinking of adding some plants to your home but are worried about whether or not they'll be safe around your pup, never fear! There are plenty of options out there for plants that are both beautiful and dog friendly.
Here are a few of my favorites:
- Snake Plants: Also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue, these guys are pretty much indestructible. They're tolerant of neglect and can go long periods of time without water, making them a great choice for busy pet parents.
- Spider Plants: Another tough plant, spider plants are known for being able to bounce back from just about anything. They're also super easy to propagate, so you can make more plants from just one mother plant.
- Boston Ferns: These lovely plants not only add a pop of green to any room, but they also help purify the air. They do need higher humidity levels than some other plants, so keeping them in a bathroom or close to a humidifier is a good idea.
Hopefully, this has given you some ideas for adding a little bit of life to your home without having to worry about your furry friend's safety.
FAQs: What Plants Are Not Safe for Dogs?
You might be wondering, "What about all of the plants I already have? Are they safe for my pup?" Well, that depends. Some common houseplants, like aloe vera, are actually poisonous to dogs if ingested. So it's always best to do your research before bringing any new plants into your home.
Other plants that are poisonous to dogs include:
- Sago palms
- Lilies
- Tulips
- Azaleas
- Oleander
- Castor beans
- Cycads
- Yews
If you're ever in doubt, the best thing to do is to contact your vet. They'll be able to give you a definitive answer on whether a particular plant is safe for your dog or not.
So, if you're looking for plants that will make both you and your furry friend happy, consider some of the plants on this list. Not only will they make your home more beautiful, but they'll also provide your dog with a place to play and explore.
Take care to choose plants that are non-toxic to dogs, and be sure to keep an eye on your pup when they're around any plants. With a little bit of planning, you can create a beautiful and pet-friendly garden that will bring you both hours of enjoyment.