Which part of the daffodil is most dangerous to dogs?

The bulb is the most poisonous part of the daffodil. It contains the highest concentration of lycorine and other alkaloids, so dogs that dig up and chew bulbs (or eat bulbs stored or planted in the garden) are at greatest risk of serious poisoning.

What happens if my dog eats a small amount of daffodil leaf or flower?

Even small ingestions of leaf, stem, or flower can cause vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea. Larger ingestions, especially of the bulb, can progress to more serious signs such as low blood pressure, tremors, convulsions, and cardiac arrhythmias. Any suspected ingestion should be discussed with a veterinarian or poison control line.

Is daffodil water (vase water) dangerous to dogs?

Yes, caution is warranted. The toxic alkaloids can leach into the water that cut daffodils sit in, so dogs should not be allowed to drink from vases or buckets holding daffodils.

Are Daffodils Poisonous to Dogs?

Narcissus spp. · Amaryllidaceae

Moderately ToxicAlso toxic to cats

Daffodils are toxic to dogs.

Why it's toxic

The toxic compounds in daffodils:

Lycorine and other alkaloids
Crystals (calcium oxalate-type irritants) concentrated in the bulb

Symptoms to watch for

If your dog ate daffodils, watch for:

Vomiting
Salivation (drooling)
Diarrhea
Convulsions (with large ingestions)
Low blood pressure (with large ingestions)
Tremors (with large ingestions)
Cardiac arrhythmias (with large ingestions)

What to do if your dog ate it

1Remove your dog's access to the daffodils and check how much may have been eaten.
2Do NOT induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison-control expert specifically tells you to.
3Call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435, or the Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 right away.
4Note the amount eaten, the time, and your dog's weight and any symptoms — have this ready for the expert.
5Follow professional guidance and go to the nearest emergency vet if you are advised to.

📞 ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 📞 Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

A consultation fee may apply to the Pet Poison Helpline. When in doubt, contact your own veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic.

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the daffodil is most dangerous to dogs?: The bulb is the most poisonous part of the daffodil. It contains the highest concentration of lycorine and other alkaloids, so dogs that dig up and chew bulbs (or eat bulbs stored or planted in the garden) are at greatest risk of serious poisoning.
What happens if my dog eats a small amount of daffodil leaf or flower?: Even small ingestions of leaf, stem, or flower can cause vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea. Larger ingestions, especially of the bulb, can progress to more serious signs such as low blood pressure, tremors, convulsions, and cardiac arrhythmias. Any suspected ingestion should be discussed with a veterinarian or poison control line.
Is daffodil water (vase water) dangerous to dogs?: Yes, caution is warranted. The toxic alkaloids can leach into the water that cut daffodils sit in, so dogs should not be allowed to drink from vases or buckets holding daffodils.

Sources

ASPCA - Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Daffodil

Last updated 2026-06-25

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This page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Toxicity can vary with the amount eaten, your dog's size, and individual sensitivity. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian or poison-control hotline immediately.