Are Beauty Berries Poisonous to Dogs? [Guide]

We all know that dogs love to snack on whatever they find while exploring the great outdoors. However, sometimes these treats can be harmful and cause health issues. But do not worry! When it comes to beautyberries, there’s no need to fret. Beauty berries are not poisonous to dogs, but may leave a sour taste in their mouth, also be warned – if your dog overindulges, they may experience digestive issues.

What Are Beautyberries

Beautyberries have lots of different names including The American Mulberry, French Mulberry, and Sourbush. The Beautyberry is a deciduous shrub that is found in gardens commonly all over the US. It can grow up to around 7-8 feet tall and it produces small bright purple berries which are roughly the same size as grapes. While beautyberries are edible, we would advise against eating them, since they taste pretty foul.

Are Beautyberries Safe for Dogs to Eat

Yes, beautyberries are safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. But it’s highly unlikely our dog will even want to eat them in the first place since the taste is quite bitter, however, you never know with some dogs! In most cases, dogs will be totally fine if they’ve just consumed a couple of beautyberries although it’s thought if your dog decides to consume a decent amount they’ll most likely be in for some tummy trouble.

Lots of people have negative experiences with their dogs eating beautyberries. For example, one dog owner shared that their chihuahua ate the berries and ended up at the hospital twice, with bills totaling $1,386.

While the berry itself is not poisonous, excessive consumption can lead to severe digestive problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort. As with any food or plant, it’s essential to monitor your dog’s consumption and contact a veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.

What Are the Benefits of Beautyberries

Aside from their unique appearance, beautyberries have a couple of benefits. In the past, the leaves of the plant were used to create insect repellent and some studies have shown that the plant has some anti-inflammatory properties. Beautyberries are actually sometimes used in making mosquito repellent which is pretty cool. So, if you have some in your garden and you especially hate mosquitoes maybe try it out. 

FAQs About Beautyberries and Dogs

Q: Are Beautyberries poisonous to humans or dogs? A: No, Beautyberries are not poisonous to humans or dogs, and the berries are edible.

Q: Do Beautyberries attract wildlife? A: Yes, Beautyberries attract many wildlife species, including birds, deer, and squirrels.

Conclusion

Beautyberries are a safe plant for dogs to eat in moderation and can even be a useful addition to your garden. If you are concerned about the health of your dog and think they have eaten something it shouldn’t have you can always contact the ASPCA on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on 800-213-6680. They will be able to give you advice on the next steps to take and whether or not you should be worried about the health of your dog. Also, you can easily talk to a veterinarian online with the help of our instant online chat.