Rhubarb is toxic to dogs and should never be fed. Both leaves and stalks contain high levels of oxalic acid, which damages kidneys and causes severe metabolic issues. Rhubarb leaves are especially dangerous due to concentrated toxin levels. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and acute kidney injury requiring emergency veterinary care. No safe dose exists for rhubarb. Leaves may be attractive to curious dogs in gardens, so secure plants or prevent access. Always remove any rhubarb pieces immediately if ingested and contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Why Rhubarb Should Be Avoided
Leaves are toxic. Can cause kidney failure.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Rhubarb
Monitor your dog for vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If symptoms develop, contact your vet.
Use the Emergency Risk ToolCommon Mistakes
Watch out: Assuming stalks are safe because leaves are toxic. Leaving rhubarb plants accessible in gardens. Feeding small amounts, hoping they will pass harmlessly. Delaying veterinary care after ingestion. Treating symptoms at home instead of seeking professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rhubarb stalks safer than leaves?
No; both contain dangerous oxalic acid levels toxic to dogs
What happens if my dog eats rhubarb?
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential acute kidney failure
Is there a safe amount?
No; any amount of rhubarb is unsafe for dogs
How quickly do symptoms appear?
Within 30 minutes to several hours of ingestion
What should I do if my dog eats rhubarb?
Contact your veterinarian immediately; do not wait for symptoms to develop
Scientific References
- Lin TJ (2016). Inhibition of endosomal fusion activity of influenza virus by Rheum tanguticum (da-huang) PMID: 27302738
- Zhang Y (2020). Elevated system exposures of baicalin after combinatory oral administration of rhein and baicalin: Mainly related to breast cancer resistance protein (ABCG2), not UDP-glucuronosyltransferases PMID: 31884038
- Kaszkin-Bettag M (2008). Long-term toxicity studies in dogs support the safety of the special extract ERr 731 from the roots of Rheum rhaponticum PMID: 18267351