Barberry Plant & Dogs

There are a number of barberry plants within the Berberis genus. These plants pose a very small health risk to dogs. Though the risk is there, the potential is slim.

Identification

Almost all barberry plants are woody deciduous or evergreen shrubs. Barberry plants are characterized by dark green leaves, vibrant flowers and berries. Coloring and distinct markings vary among plants.

Effects

Barberry, when tested in a laboratory setting, caused death in dogs when consumed at the rate of 25 mg per kilogram of body weight. The study, published in "The Complete German Commission E Monographs," concluded the berries of the plant posed the risk of death at that dose due to the chemical berberine sulfate, which in a high dose suppresses the cardiac and respiratory systems.

Significance

Although toxic in high enough doses, 25 mg per kilogram of weight is more plant matter than any dog can ingest on a casual encounter.

Considerations

Dogs are carnivores and have a hard time digesting plants. Because of this, stomach upset may occur when dogs eat parts of the barberry plant.

Misconceptions

Creeping mahonia, also known as the holly-leaved barberry, is not related to true barberry plants. This plant is nontoxic to both cats and dogs.

References

• "The Complete German Commission E Monographs"; Siegrid Klein, Robert Rister, Chance Riggins; 1998
• The ASPCA Poison Control Center: Creeping Mahonia
• "Handbook of Poisoning in Dogs and Cats"; Alexander Campbell, Michael Chapman; 2000

Resources

• ASPCA Poison Control Center