If you love gardening as much as you love your dog, you’ll know it’s not always easy to balance the two. Many common garden plants can be harmful to dogs if chewed, and let’s face it, most curious pups will take a nibble at some point.
The good news? There are plenty of dog-friendly plants that are completely safe to grow in UK gardens. Whether you’ve got a playful puppy or an older dog who loves sunbathing in the borders, these plants will keep your space looking beautiful and worry-free.
🌿 1. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
This aromatic evergreen herb is as useful as it is attractive. With needle-like leaves and delicate blue or purple flowers, rosemary works brilliantly in a kitchen garden, mixed herb bed, or even as a low hedge.
Why it’s great for dog-friendly gardens:
Rosemary is non-toxic to dogs, so there’s no need to worry if your dog brushes past it or has a sniff. It’s also unappealing to most pets because of its strong scent, which means it’s usually left alone.
Extra tip:
Rosemary thrives in well-drained soil and loves full sun — perfect for drier spots where other plants might struggle. It’s also drought-tolerant once established and makes a lovely addition to roast dinners or infused oils.
🌼 2. Marigolds (Calendula officinalis)
Bright, cheerful, and easy to grow, calendula (sometimes called pot marigold) is a favourite for cottage-style gardens. With daisy-like blooms in golden tones, it adds instant colour to beds and borders from early summer right through to autumn.
Why it’s great for dog-friendly gardens:
Calendula is completely safe for dogs and often used in natural skincare because of its soothing properties. It’s also a pollinator magnet — perfect if you're trying to encourage bees and butterflies into your garden.
Extra tip:
Plant calendula in full sun for best results. It’s easy to grow from seed, self-seeds readily, and can even be grown in pots. Deadhead regularly to keep the blooms coming.
🌸 3. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons bring vertical interest, rich colour, and a touch of nostalgia. Children love their dragon-shaped flowers, and gardeners love their long-lasting display.
Why it’s great for dog-friendly gardens:
Snapdragons are non-toxic to dogs and hold up surprisingly well around excitable paws. Their upright habit makes them a good choice for smaller beds or containers.
Extra tip:
Choose dwarf varieties for containers or taller ones for the back of a border. Snapdragons prefer full sun or light shade and benefit from deadheading to prolong flowering. In milder parts of the UK, they may even survive the winter and bloom again next year.
🌺 4. Camellia
If you want year-round structure with a burst of early-season glamour, look no further than camellias. These glossy-leaved evergreens produce rose-like blooms in shades of pink, red or white — often when little else is flowering.
Why it’s great for dog-friendly gardens:
Camellias are non-toxic to dogs and provide valuable shelter and shade in your garden — ideal for pups who love a cool patch to nap in. They’re also low-maintenance once established.
Extra tip:
Camellias prefer acidic soil and benefit from being planted in a sheltered, semi-shaded spot. Avoid east-facing positions, which can cause frost damage to early buds. Use ericaceous compost if growing in containers.
🌷 5. Fuchsias
Fuchsias are a UK garden classic, known for their graceful, drooping flowers that come in combinations of pinks, purples, and reds. They’re loved by gardeners and hummingbirds alike — although sadly not the latter in the UK!
Why it’s great for dog-friendly gardens:
Unlike many flowering plants, fuchsias are totally safe for dogs. Even if your pup takes a bite (unlikely), there’s no danger. Plus, fuchsias are ideal for softening shaded areas where your dog might rest.
Extra tip:
Grow hardy fuchsias in the ground or trailing varieties in hanging baskets. They prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Pinch out the growing tips for bushier plants and longer flowering.
🐾 Quick Tip: Safety First
Even safe plants can cause a mild tummy upset if a dog eats a large amount. Try to discourage digging and chewing, and keep toys handy to divert attention from new planting!
🌼 Design Your Dog-Friendly Garden with Confidence
Creating a garden that’s safe for your dog doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. With the right plant choices, you can enjoy a colourful, pollinator-friendly space that welcomes every member of the family — paws included.
Need help choosing plants? Pop into our Exmouth or Sidmouth garden centres, where our team will be happy to help you pick pet-safe plants, plan your borders, or find the perfect pot for your patio.