Is it toxic to dogs?
Daffodils
Narcissus spp. · Amaryllidaceae
Also called Narcissus, Jonquil, Paperwhite
Toxic to dogs
Severity: Moderate
Yes. Daffodils are toxic to dogs, and the bulbs are the most dangerous part. A small taste often causes drooling and vomiting, but a large amount can lead to tremors, seizures and heart rhythm problems.
- Toxic parts
- Bulbs (most toxic), Whole plant
- Toxic compounds
- Lycorine and other alkaloids
- Where you’ll find it
- House and garden
Signs of poisoning
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Tremors
- Low blood pressure
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Seizures with large amounts
Why it’s harmful to dogs
Daffodils, also called narcissus or jonquils, are among the first flowers of spring. Paperwhites, the forced indoor kind, belong to the same group, and the ASPCA lists them all as toxic to dogs.
The whole plant contains alkaloids, and the highest levels are in the bulbs. The ASPCA names lycorine as the main toxic principle. Pet Poison Helpline says the vomiting may be severe and can lead to dehydration, weakness and even shock. Merck Veterinary Manual says small doses cause few or no signs and most exposures settle without treatment, while large exposures need supportive care such as fluids.
That makes quantity the key detail. A dog that mouths a petal is a very different case from a dog that has dug up and chewed several bulbs, and your vet will want to know which it was.
If your dog ate daffodils
Remove any plant pieces and note how much your dog ate, especially whether bulbs were involved. Get your vet, an emergency clinic or a poison helpline on the phone before doing anything else. In the US, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply); in other countries, call your local emergency vet. Never try to make your dog vomit yourself.
A single petal or leaf often causes only drooling or vomiting, but bulbs or large amounts can cause serious problems, including tremors, seizures and an irregular heartbeat. Your vet may recommend monitoring or supportive care such as fluids.
Tell them about any fertilizer or pesticide used on the bed, too.
Keeping your dog safe
Plant daffodils where your dog can't dig, and keep bulbs in a closed container until planting day. Cover new beds with mesh until the soil settles. Place cut daffodils in a vase well out of reach and clear dropped stems promptly.
Supervise dogs that dig in fall and spring, and teach "leave it". If you want cheerful spring color with less risk, roses and sunflowers are both listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA.
Dog-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Are daffodils poisonous to dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists daffodils as toxic to dogs, with vomiting, drooling and diarrhea, and convulsions, tremors and heart rhythm changes after large ingestions.
Which part of the daffodil is most toxic?
The bulbs. Pet Poison Helpline says the whole plant is toxic but the bulbs have the highest concentration.
Is a little bit dangerous?
Merck Veterinary Manual says small doses cause few or no signs, but large amounts can be serious. Call your vet if you aren't sure how much your dog ate.
Are paperwhites toxic too?
Yes. The ASPCA lists paperwhites among the common names for daffodils (Narcissus) and classes them as toxic to dogs.
Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy