Rhubarb

Q: Can dogs eat Rhubarb? — DogToxic

Toxic: Never — oxalic acid damages the kidneys. Rhubarb contains oxalic acid and soluble oxalates throughout the plant — the leaves contain the highest concentration but the stalks are also harmful. Oxalates bind calcium in the blood, causing hypocalcemia (low calcium) and can deposit as crystals in the kidneys, causing acute kidney failure.

Q: Symptoms to watch for

drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors, abnormal urination

Toxic

Verdict

Never — oxalic acid damages the kidneys.

Toxic principle: oxalic acid, soluble oxalates

Source: ASPCA

Verdict

Rhubarb contains oxalic acid and soluble oxalates throughout the plant — the leaves contain the highest concentration but the stalks are also harmful. Oxalates bind calcium in the blood, causing hypocalcemia (low calcium) and can deposit as crystals in the kidneys, causing acute kidney failure.

Symptoms to watch for

• drooling
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• weakness
• tremors
• abnormal urination

What to do

Call your vet immediately if any part of the rhubarb plant was consumed. The leaves are especially dangerous. Keep the plant out of your garden or fence off areas where your dog has access.

📞 US ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435

Related foods

Onion

Toxic

Never — destroys red blood cells.

Vegetables

Garlic

Toxic

Never — more potent than onion, causes blood cell damage.

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Chives

Toxic

Never — allium toxin, same risk as onion and garlic.

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Leek

Toxic

Never — allium family, toxic to dogs.

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