Is Butterfly Bush Poisonous to Dogs?

Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii) is generally regarded as non-toxic to dogs and is not listed on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control toxic-plant list. No toxic principle is identified for the commonly planted Buddleja davidii. Caveats: (1) Eating a large volume of leaves, stems, or flowers can still cause mild, transient GI upset (vomiting, diarrhea) or oral irritation simply from indigestible plant fiber, not from a toxin. (2) Do NOT confuse Butterfly Bush with Butterfly Weed / Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa / Asclepias spp.), which has a similar common name but IS toxic to dogs (contains cardiotoxic cardenolides). Always confirm plant identity. (3) Less common Buddleja species (e.g., Buddleja asiatica) have been flagged as toxic to humans by at least one extension service, so species identification matters. (4) Woody stems pose a possible choking or GI-obstruction risk for dogs that chew and swallow large pieces. (5) Watch for pesticide, herbicide, or systemic insecticide residue on garden plants. If a dog eats a large amount or shows more than brief, mild upset, contact a veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) / ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).

Is Butterfly Bush poisonous to dogs?

No. Buddleja davidii (Butterfly Bush) is considered non-toxic to dogs and does not contain a recognized toxic principle. It is not on the ASPCA's toxic-plant list. Eating a large amount may still cause brief, mild stomach upset, but it is not expected to cause poisoning.

My dog chewed on Butterfly Bush leaves - what should I do?

For a small nibble, just monitor your dog; serious effects are not expected. If a large amount was eaten, watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling, offer fresh water, and call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) if symptoms are more than brief and mild or if you are unsure the plant was actually Butterfly Bush.

Is Butterfly Bush the same as Butterfly Weed, which I heard is toxic?

No - they are different plants that are easy to confuse. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii) is non-toxic to dogs. Butterfly Weed / Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa and other Asclepias species) IS toxic to dogs because it contains cardiotoxic compounds. Confirm exactly which plant your dog accessed before deciding it is safe.

• ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database (Buddleja not listed as toxic; no per-plant entry)
• Dial A Vet - Is a butterfly bush toxic to dogs if they chew on it?

Last updated 2026-06-25