Can Dogs Eat Rhubarb? Safe Parts, Risks & What to Do If Your Dog Eats It
Learn which parts of the rhubarb plant are safe for dogs, symptoms of poisoning, health benefits, and what to do in emergencies.
Rhubarb is a staple in many kitchens, known for adding tart flavor to desserts and jams. But as a pet parent, you may wonder: Is rhubarb safe for dogs? Understanding which parts are toxic and how to respond to accidental ingestion is essential for keeping your four-legged friend healthy. This comprehensive guide explains which parts of rhubarb are dangerous, touches on potential health benefits, lists the warning signs of poisoning, and provides key steps to take if your dog eats the wrong part of the plant.
Is Rhubarb Safe for Dogs?
Dogs can eat the stems (stalks) of rhubarb in small amounts, but rhubarb leaves are toxic and should always be avoided. According to veterinarians, the stems contain much lower levels of potentially dangerous compounds and can be safe for healthy dogs when fed sparingly. However, the leaves contain soluble oxalate crystals, which can cause a range of serious health issues for dogs.
- Rhubarb stems: Safe in moderation for most dogs if prepared properly.
- Rhubarb leaves: Toxic; even a small quantity can be dangerous.
It is important to never allow dogs access to rhubarb leaves, whether in the garden, as kitchen scraps, or through dropped food. If you choose to give your pet rhubarb, always remove and discard the leaves first.
Why Are Rhubarb Leaves Dangerous?
The leaves of the rhubarb plant are high in soluble oxalates, a type of naturally occurring compound that can severely disrupt a dog’s calcium levels and damage their kidneys. Specifically, the oxalates bind with calcium in the blood, leading to:
- A sudden drop in blood calcium (hypocalcemia)
- Kidney damage or failure as oxalate crystals accumulate in kidney tissue
Both effects can result in life-threatening complications if not addressed quickly.
What Are the Health Benefits of Rhubarb?
Rhubarb stalks can supply several nutrients beneficial to dogs and humans alike, such as:
- Vitamin K — Important for blood clotting and bone health
- Potassium — Supports muscular and heart function
- Vitamin A — Promotes healthy vision and immunity
Some animal studies using rhubarb extracts have shown potential for:
- Improving quality of life in kidney disease
- Lowering high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Helping reduce excessive protein in urine (proteinuria)
- Reducing blood glucose levels
However, the amounts of rhubarb a dog would safely consume are too small to see noticeable health effects—the sensory enrichment from tasting something new is likely a bigger benefit than any vitamin boost.
How Much Rhubarb Can Dogs Eat?
Moderation is critical. According to veterinary toxicology and nutrition experts:
- The rhubarb stalk should only be given as an occasional treat.
- Start with a tiny piece to observe your dog’s reaction and check for digestive upset.
- Rhubarb (and other non-dog foods) should never make up more than 10% of daily caloric intake.
Always consult your veterinarian before offering rhubarb or any new food to your dog. Dogs with a history of kidney disease, urinary problems, or calcium imbalances should not be given rhubarb stems at all.
Special Care for Sensitive Dogs
- Small breeds, puppies, and dogs with sensitive stomachs may be more likely to develop vomiting or diarrhea from new foods.
- If your dog is already on a special diet, ask your vet before introducing new treats.
What Happens If Dogs Eat Rhubarb Leaves?
Rhubarb leaf ingestion is a medical emergency. Because the leaves contain high concentrations of soluble oxalates, even a single bite can cause dangerous symptoms. Severity depends on the amount and the size and health of your dog.
7 Signs of Rhubarb Poisoning in Dogs
- Pawing at the mouth or mouth pain
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Not eating
- Excessive drooling
- Abdominal discomfort or a rumbling stomach
- Diarrhea
In severe cases or with large leaf consumption, you may also see:
- Muscle tremors or twitching
- Changes in urination (bloody or reduced urine)
- Signs of kidney failure (increased drinking, no urination, weakness)
How Quickly Do Poisoning Signs Appear?
Symptoms often develop within a few hours of ingesting the leaves. Severity increases the longer treatment is delayed.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Eats Rhubarb Leaves?
- Immediately contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center (not all clinics are open 24/7).
- Note how much and which part of the plant your dog ate, approximate time, and your dog’s weight and breed.
- Do not induce vomiting or provide home remedies without veterinary guidance.
Quick action is essential. Most complications from rhubarb leaf poisoning occur when treatment is delayed.
| Dog Size | Amount Eaten Likely to Cause Harm |
|---|---|
| Toy/small (10 lbs) | Even a bite or two of leaves |
| Medium (20–40 lbs) | Multiple bites or a portion of leaf |
| Large (50+ lbs) | Larger quantities, but even small amounts can be risky |
Why Are Some Plants, Like Rhubarb, Toxic to Dogs?
Plants such as rhubarb have evolved toxins to defend against animals and insects. In rhubarb, soluble oxalates are one such defense. Other plants with similar antinutrients include:
- Shamrock
- Star fruit
- Spinach
- Beetroot
- Lambsquarters
While humans can eat many of these foods in moderation, dogs have different metabolic sensitivities. Always consult resources or your vet before sharing human food, especially plants, with your pet.
Special Case: Can Dogs Eat Rhubarb Pie?
Rhubarb pie is not directly toxic to dogs if made without the leaves, but it should not be offered as a treat. The pie contains large amounts of sugar and sometimes ingredients like nutmeg, cinnamon, or xylitol (a sweetener extremely dangerous for dogs), all of which can be harmful.
- Sugar overload can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and shaking in the short term, and contribute to obesity and diabetes in the long run.
- Baked desserts are best reserved for people.
If your dog eats a small amount of plain rhubarb pie by accident, they are unlikely to be poisoned but may experience digestive upset. Monitor your dog and call your vet if symptoms persist beyond a few hours.
Safe Ways to Share Vegetables With Your Dog
- Stick to safer fruits and veggies like carrots, green beans, blueberries, or pumpkin as occasional snacks.
- Introduce one new food at a time and observe for signs of discomfort or allergies.
- Always wash and prepare produce thoroughly; remove seeds, pits, and toxic parts (like rhubarb leaves).
- Keep treats under 10% of daily calories to preserve nutritional balance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can dogs eat cooked rhubarb?
Cooked rhubarb stems are not more toxic than raw, but ensure no leaves are included and avoid sugar, artificial sweeteners, and spices. The same moderation rules apply.
Are any varieties of rhubarb safer for dogs?
All common varieties have toxic leaves; there are no dog-safe rhubarb cultivars. Only stems are marginally safe if served plain and in tiny amounts.
What should I do if my dog eats a small piece of rhubarb leaf?
Err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately. Even a small amount can cause toxicity, especially in small or sensitive dogs.
Can rhubarb be included in a homemade dog food diet?
This is not generally recommended. There are many safer alternatives for dogs that add flavor and nutrition. Always consult your veterinarian before adding any new food to a homemade diet.
What are the long-term effects of rhubarb toxicity?
If treated quickly, most dogs make a full recovery. Severe poisoning can damage kidneys permanently or disrupt calcium balance, potentially resulting in chronic illness.
Key Takeaways
- Rhubarb stems are safe in moderation for dogs, but always remove all leaves first.
- Rhubarb leaves are highly toxic and should never be given to dogs.
- Watch for signs of poisoning, especially after garden or kitchen exposure.
- Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect rhubarb leaf ingestion.
- Offer safer, well-known dog-friendly fruits and vegetables as treats instead of rhubarb.
Keeping your dog safe starts with informed choices—always check before offering new foods, and if in doubt, call your vet.
References
- https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dog-eat-rhubarb/
- https://www.dogster.com/dog-nutrition/can-dogs-eat-rhubarb
- https://www.masterclass.com/articles/can-dogs-eat-rhubarb
- https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dog-eat-rhubarb-pie/
- https://www.rover.com/blog/toxic-foods-for-dogs/
- https://www.rover.com/blog/can-my-dog-eat-plants/
- https://www.rover.com/blog/poisonous-plants/
- https://wagwalking.com/condition/rhubarb-poisoning
- https://www.healthypawspetinsurance.com/blog/can-dogs-eat-rhubarb
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