Creating a beautiful garden that’s also safe for your dog is easier than you might think. While some common plants can be toxic (as covered in our post on poisonous plants), there are plenty of dog-safe alternatives that add colour, texture, and scent—without posing a danger to curious canines. Here are 15 plants that are considered non-toxic to dogs, making them perfect for pet-friendly gardens and patios.

1. Marigolds – Bright and cheerful, marigolds are safe for dogs and also known for deterring pests. They thrive in sunny beds or containers.

2. Snapdragons – These come in a variety of colours and bloom beautifully through the summer. Safe for dogs and a cottage garden favourite.

3. Sunflowers – Iconic and fun to grow, sunflowers are non-toxic to dogs. Even if your pup chews a fallen petal or leaf, it won’t cause harm.

4. Roses – All rose varieties are non-toxic to dogs (just beware of the thorns). Their classic beauty makes them a great choice for dog-friendly borders.

5. Camellias – These evergreen shrubs offer glossy leaves and beautiful blooms in winter and spring. Safe for dogs and excellent for adding structure to your garden.

6. Magnolia Trees – Non-toxic to dogs and visually striking, magnolias provide light shade and are surprisingly low maintenance.

7. Calendula (Pot Marigold) – Not to be confused with French marigolds, calendula is safe for dogs and has edible flowers often used in herbal teas and creams.

8. Cornflower – These classic blue flowers are dog-safe and perfect for wildlife-friendly gardens that also welcome dogs.

9. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – A favourite indoor plant that’s safe for dogs and also helps purify the air. Ideal if your dog likes a bit of houseplant mischief.

10. Boston Fern – Another dog-safe indoor or shaded patio plant that adds lush, leafy texture without any toxic concerns.

11. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea) – Ideal for shady corners or large pots, this non-toxic palm is safe for dogs and adds a tropical touch.

12. Fuchsia – With hanging, bell-shaped flowers, fuchsias are pet-safe and perfect for baskets or shaded borders.

13. Nasturtiums – Not only are they non-toxic, but the flowers are edible (for humans too!). Nasturtiums add a pop of colour and attract pollinators.

14. Orchids (Phalaenopsis) – Many orchids are safe for dogs, especially Phalaenopsis. They make a lovely indoor or conservatory feature.

15. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – This fragrant herb is safe for dogs and great for culinary use. It can be planted in borders or allowed to creep between paving stones.

16. Zinnias – These colourful, long-blooming flowers are completely safe for dogs and attract butterflies too. Ideal for brightening up beds and borders.

17. Basil – A fragrant herb that’s safe for dogs in small amounts. Great in containers or kitchen gardens, and handy for home cooking too.

18. Impatiens – These shade-loving annuals add vibrant colour and are completely non-toxic to dogs. Perfect for planters or under trees.

19. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya) – A cheerful houseplant with speckled leaves that’s safe for dogs. Ideal for tabletops or bright indoor corners.

20. Bottlebrush (Callistemon) – This striking, brush-like flowering shrub is safe for dogs and loved by pollinators. A great choice for sunny, well-drained gardens.

Gardening Tips for Dog Owners

Choose raised beds or sturdy borders to prevent trampling. Avoid chemical fertilisers or pesticides, which can be harmful even on safe plants. Use mulch made from bark or cocoa-free wood chips—never use cocoa mulch, which is toxic to dogs. Create dog pathways or a designated digging area to redirect unwanted behaviour. Provide shady spots with non-toxic shrubs or small trees so your dog can lounge safely outdoors.

Final Thought

A dog-safe garden doesn’t mean compromising on beauty. With the right plant choices, you can build an outdoor space that your dog can explore safely—and that you can enjoy just as much. Pair this with Poppy’s Picnic raw meals for a naturally healthy lifestyle inside and out.