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Are Dogwood Trees Safe for Dogs?

Branch of white dogwood flowers on a black background

According to ASPCA, this tree and its fruit are not poisonous to dogs. A dogwood tree blooms in the spring and has pink or white blossoms. Although dogwood berries are not poisonous when eaten, skin contact with this tree is linked with rashes.

Dogwood Tree Information

Dogwood branch covered in flowers against a blue sky

Cornus (usually known as dogwood) is a genus of woody plants in the Cornaceae family with around 30-60 species. They are famous for their flowers, berries, and unique bark. Cornus’s bark is high in tannins and is used as a quinine replacement in traditional medicine. Confederate soldiers used dogwood leaves in a poultice to cover wounds. They also made tea from the bark to cure pain and fever during the American Civil War.

The fundamental reason for dogwood trees’ appeal is their unrivaled beauty in all seasons. However, spring blooms and berries are undoubtedly the most spectacular sight. It’s impossible to resist the mix of white and pink blooms with brilliant red berries. Hence, it is one of the safe blooming trees for dogs.

Dogwood trees are even more appropriate for residential gardens because they are easy to maintain. They are also pet-friendly trees, making them an excellent choice for your backyard.

Are Dogwood Trees Safe for Dogs?

Corgi sitting on a hill in a grove of autumn trees.

There are no species of dogwood trees or shrubs that are reported to be toxic to canines. Dogwood trees have various berries (depending on their type) and your dog can’t eat all of them. Some of them can be toxic for your pooch and must be avoided.

For example, dogs may eat the fruit of the Kousa dogwood. On the other hand, the bitter red berries of the blooming dogwood can hurt their digestive system. Therefore, the owner should take good care of the pet because a slight ignorance can cause severe damage.

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