Yew berries are extremely toxic and must never be fed to dogs. All parts of the yew tree, including the berries, leaves, and wood, contain taxine alkaloids, which are deadly cardiac toxins. Yew toxicity causes rapid and severe cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, and death, often without warning. A very small amount can be fatal. Yew grows commonly throughout the UK in gardens, parks, and wild areas. Dogs are attracted to the red, berry-like structures and may consume them accidentally while exploring. If your dog has accessed yew berries or other yew tree parts, seek immediate emergency veterinary care. Yew poisoning can cause sudden death, and treatment options are limited.
Why Yew Berries Should Be Avoided
Taxines in yew are rapidly fatal to dogs; the red flesh is less toxic but the seed is deadly.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Yew Berries
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: Owners may not recognise yew trees in their gardens or local parks. Some do not realise all parts of yew are toxic. Dogs find yew berries attractive and will eat them if accessible. Know your garden plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are yew berries so deadly?
They contain taxine alkaloids causing rapid cardiac failure and death.
What parts of yew are toxic?
All parts are toxic: berries, leaves, wood, bark, and roots.
How much is lethal?
Very small amounts can be fatal. Any yew consumption is a serious emergency.
What are the symptoms?
Rapid cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, collapse, and sudden death.
What should I do if my dog ate yew?
Seek immediate emergency veterinary care. Prognosis is poor but treatment may help.