9 Best Dog-Friendly Plants: 9 Safe Indoor Options

Some houseplants look harmless but can wreck your whole week if your dog decides they’re a snack. I’ve learned the hard way that “cute leafy décor” and “pet-safe home” don’t automatically go together.

One lazy nibble can turn into vomiting, diarrhea, or an expensive vet visit you didn’t budget for.

The good news is you don’t have to choose between a stylish home and a healthy dog. You just need to know which plants play nice and which ones belong in the “absolutely not” category.

Why Picking Dog-Safe Indoor Plants Actually Matters

A lot of people think plant toxicity is some rare, dramatic thing that only happens if a dog eats an entire jungle. Nope. Some plants can cause problems from just a few bites, and dogs don’t exactly have the best judgment when they’re bored. If your dog has ever tried to eat a sock, you already know what I mean.

The tricky part is that many toxic plants don’t look scary at all. They sit in living rooms, show up in Pinterest home décor photos, and get sold everywhere with labels that say things like “easy care” and “low maintenance,” which is hilarious because they can turn your life into chaos if you have a curious pup.

Another thing people forget is that dogs don’t chew plants because they’re hungry. They chew because they’re exploring, they’re anxious, or they like the texture. Some dogs treat your houseplants like salad bars, and they do it casually, like it’s their right.

And honestly, it’s not just about preventing poisoning. It’s about peace of mind. When you know your plants won’t hurt your dog, you stop living in that low-level panic of “what if she ate that leaf when I wasn’t looking?”

Common Reasons Dogs Chew Indoor Plants

Dogs don’t need a big reason to do something weird. They just need access.

Some common reasons include:

• Teething (especially puppies)
• Boredom and lack of stimulation
• Anxiety when left alone
• Curiosity about movement or texture
• Hunger or upset stomach
• Attention-seeking behavior

If your dog chews plants regularly, it’s not always about the plant. Sometimes it’s about their lifestyle, and yes, I’m judging a little if your dog has zero toys but you have twelve decorative plants.

Toxic Doesn’t Always Mean “Deadly,” But Still Not Worth It

Some toxic plants cause mild irritation, drooling, or stomach upset, while others can cause serious organ damage. Either way, it’s a headache you don’t need. Even “mild” symptoms still mean messes on your carpet, a stressed-out dog, and you googling symptoms at 2 AM like a maniac.

I personally don’t mess with “slightly toxic” plants anymore. Life feels better when your plant collection doesn’t come with a warning label.

What Makes a Plant “Dog-Friendly” in the First Place?

A dog-friendly plant basically means it won’t poison your dog if they nibble it. That doesn’t mean your dog should eat it like a side dish, but it means the risk level stays low if an accident happens. The goal is safety, not giving your dog a new snack hobby.

Most safe indoor plants fall into categories like palms, certain ferns, and some tropical leafy plants. Many of them also have thicker leaves or textures that dogs don’t find as tempting, which is a bonus. A plant that’s technically safe but irresistible to chew still creates drama.

You also want to think about your dog’s personality. Some dogs ignore plants completely. Others behave like they have a personal mission to destroy greenery. If you have the second type, you need tougher plants that can handle occasional chaos.

I also think dog-friendly plants should be easy to maintain. Because if you’re already managing a dog, you don’t need a plant that acts like a high-maintenance roommate who demands filtered water and weekly emotional support.

The ASPCA List Isn’t Perfect, But It’s a Great Start

If you ever feel unsure about a plant, the ASPCA’s toxic and non-toxic plant database helps a lot. I don’t treat it like gospel for every rare plant variety, but it gives a solid baseline for common indoor options.

Still, you should always cross-check because plant names get messy. Stores label plants wrong all the time, and some plants have ten different nicknames depending on where you live. If you buy a plant labeled “palm,” that could mean something safe or something sketchy.

Mild Irritation vs Real Toxicity

Some plants don’t cause poisoning but can irritate the mouth or stomach. That irritation can still lead to drooling, pawing at the mouth, or vomiting. If your dog already has a sensitive stomach, even a “safe” plant might cause minor discomfort.

That’s why I always say this: safe doesn’t mean edible. It means you won’t need to sprint to the emergency vet if your dog gets curious.

Best Dog-Friendly Plants You Can Actually Keep Indoors

Now for the fun part, because safe plants aren’t boring. You can still create that cozy indoor jungle vibe without risking your dog’s health. You just have to choose plants that won’t betray you.

I’ve picked options that work well indoors, look good in normal homes, and don’t require you to become a plant scientist overnight. These are plants you can realistically keep alive while also handling dog hair on every surface.

1. Areca Palm (Butterfly Palm)

The Areca Palm is one of the best dog-safe indoor plants if you want something that looks fancy without being dramatic. It has those feathery, arching fronds that instantly make a room feel more alive. It gives that tropical vibe without looking like you’re trying too hard.

It also grows pretty tall, which helps if your dog likes to chew low plants. You can place it in a corner, let it do its thing, and enjoy the fact that it looks expensive even when it isn’t.

Areca Palms like bright, indirect light and regular watering, but they don’t like sitting in soggy soil. If you overwater it, it gets cranky, and yellow leaves start showing up like it’s protesting.

2. Parlor Palm

The Parlor Palm is basically the chill friend of the plant world. It handles low light better than most indoor plants, and it doesn’t freak out if you forget to water it once. That makes it perfect for people who love plants but also have busy lives.

It’s also one of the safest plants for homes with dogs and cats, which is rare because so many “easy” plants turn out to be toxic. Parlor Palms stay compact and bushy, so they work great on floors or in larger pots.

If your dog loves chewing, though, you might want to keep it slightly elevated. It’s safe, but it won’t appreciate being used as a chew toy.

3. Spider Plant

Spider plants are almost too easy, which makes them one of my favorite recommendations. They grow fast, they look cool, and they produce those little “baby” offshoots that you can propagate. It’s like the plant version of a buy-one-get-infinite deal.

Spider plants are considered non-toxic to dogs, which is great. The only issue is that some dogs get obsessed with them. The long, dangling leaves look like toys, so certain dogs treat them like living entertainment.

If your dog has that “I must destroy all dangling things” personality, hang your spider plant in a basket. That way you still get the look without the chaos.

4. Boston Fern

Boston Ferns look lush and classy, like something you’d see in an old-school sunroom. They’re pet-safe and add a soft, full look that makes your space feel cozy.

The downside is that they can be a little needy. They love humidity, so if your home is dry, they might start shedding leaves. That means you’ll be vacuuming little fern bits like it’s your new hobby.

Still, if you can give it decent moisture and indirect light, it thrives. I like Boston Ferns in bathrooms or kitchens where the air stays naturally more humid.

5. Bamboo Palm

Bamboo Palms are another dog-safe option that looks clean and modern. They have a slightly different vibe than Areca or Parlor Palms because the stems look more structured. If you like minimalist décor but still want greenery, this one fits.

They also help improve indoor air quality, which is a nice bonus. I won’t pretend a plant will magically fix your entire home’s air, but every little bit helps.

Bamboo Palms grow slowly, so you won’t wake up one day and realize your plant has taken over the room. They also don’t need insane sunlight, which makes them great for apartments.

6. Calathea (Prayer Plant Family)

Calatheas are some of the prettiest indoor plants you can buy. The patterns on the leaves look like someone painted them. They’re bold, stylish, and honestly a little show-offy in the best way.

They’re also non-toxic to dogs, which feels like a miracle considering how gorgeous they are. Many plants that look this good tend to come with a toxic warning label.

The only thing is that Calatheas can be moody. They like filtered water, stable humidity, and indirect light. If you treat them wrong, they curl up their leaves like they’re offended, which is kind of dramatic but also weirdly relatable.

7. Peperomia

Peperomia plants are underrated. They’re small, compact, and come in a ton of varieties, from thick waxy leaves to textured patterns. They look great on shelves, desks, and countertops.

They’re also safe for dogs, and they’re generally easy to care for. They don’t need constant watering, and they don’t require bright sunlight. If you want a low-effort plant that still looks cute, Peperomia is a solid pick.

I like them because they don’t scream “I’m a plant person.” They just quietly add charm to a space without demanding attention.

8. African Violet

African Violets are one of the best dog-friendly flowering houseplants. Most people focus on leafy plants, but sometimes you want a little color indoors. African Violets give you that without risking your dog’s safety.

They stay small, which makes them easy to place on windowsills or tables. They also bloom repeatedly if you care for them properly, which feels like a reward for doing the bare minimum.

They like bright, indirect light and careful watering. Don’t splash water on the leaves too much, because they can spot easily, and then they look sad and patchy.

9. Orchids

Orchids feel like luxury plants, but they’re actually pet-safe and not as hard to maintain as people think. The biggest mistake people make is overwatering them. Orchids prefer being ignored a little.

They look elegant and clean, and they work well in modern homes. If you want something that looks expensive and fancy, orchids give you that vibe immediately.

If your dog is a plant chewer, orchids usually survive because they sit higher up on shelves or tables. That’s another reason I like them for pet households.

The Best Dog-Friendly Plants for Different Rooms

Not every plant works in every space. Some plants need more light, others need humidity, and some just look better in certain rooms. If you want your home to look put together instead of random, matching plants to rooms helps.

Also, your dog’s behavior might change depending on the room. Dogs tend to explore living rooms and kitchens more than guest bedrooms, so placement matters more than people realize.

Living Room Picks That Look Stylish

Living rooms usually have the most space and the best light, so you can go bigger.

My favorite living room dog-safe plants include:

• Areca Palm for height and drama
• Bamboo Palm for clean, modern greenery
• Boston Fern for fullness and softness
• Calathea for bold patterns and color

If you want a living room to look Pinterest-worthy, palms and calatheas do the heavy lifting.

Bedroom Plants That Won’t Be a Hassle

Bedrooms usually have lower light and less humidity, so you want plants that don’t complain constantly.

Good bedroom options include:

• Parlor Palm
• Peperomia
• Spider Plant (hanging works best)
• African Violet (if you have a bright window)

I love the vibe of a small Peperomia on a nightstand. It feels cozy without looking like you’re trying to start a rainforest in your sleep space.

Kitchen Plants That Survive Real Life

Kitchens can be humid and warm, which some plants love. You also want plants that don’t mind occasional temperature changes.

Great dog-safe kitchen plants include:

• Boston Fern (especially near a sink)
• Spider Plant (hanging is perfect)
• Orchids (they look amazing on counters)
• African Violet (bright window placement works)

Kitchens also tempt dogs because of food smells, so avoid putting plants low where your dog can reach them easily.

Bathroom Plants That Love Humidity

Bathrooms are underrated plant spaces. If you have a window, you can grow some seriously happy plants in there.

Top bathroom-friendly, dog-safe plants include:

• Boston Fern
• Bamboo Palm
• Calathea (if the light works)

If you want a plant that thrives without you constantly misting it, bathrooms do half the work for you.

How to Keep Dogs From Chewing Your Indoor Plants

Even with safe plants, you still don’t want your dog chomping on them. Your plant won’t die immediately, but it will look ragged, and you’ll feel annoyed every time you see those torn leaves. Plus, chewing can still upset your dog’s stomach even if the plant is non-toxic.

I’ve dealt with this issue before, and honestly, the best solution is usually a mix of training and smart placement. Dogs love habits, so if they start chewing once, they’ll keep doing it until you change the pattern.

Smart Placement Tricks That Actually Work

You don’t need to redesign your whole home, but you do need to think strategically.

Some easy placement ideas:

• Use hanging planters for spider plants and trailing plants
• Put smaller plants on shelves or high tables
• Use plant stands to lift floor plants off chewing height
• Keep plants away from dog beds and play areas
• Place large plants behind furniture corners

If your dog can’t casually walk by and nibble, the problem usually drops fast.

Training Methods That Don’t Feel Like a Full-Time Job

Training doesn’t have to be intense. You just need consistency.

Here’s what works:

• Teach “leave it” with treats and repetition
• Redirect chewing to an approved toy immediately
• Reward your dog when they ignore plants
• Block access temporarily until the habit breaks

The key is timing. If you catch them in the act and redirect fast, they learn quicker. If you discover it later and just get mad, your dog will stare at you like you’ve lost your mind.

Pet-Safe Deterrents (And My Honest Opinion)

There are bitter sprays designed to discourage chewing. Some work, some don’t. Some dogs taste it once and back off. Other dogs seem to enjoy the flavor like it’s seasoning, which is honestly disrespectful.

You can also try natural deterrents like citrus peels nearby, since many dogs dislike citrus smells. Just don’t assume every dog will react the same way.

If your dog chews plants out of boredom, deterrents won’t fix the real issue. You’ll need to add more walks, playtime, or enrichment toys.

Dog-Friendly Plants That Also Look High-End and Trendy

Let’s be real for a second. A lot of “safe” things in life look boring. Luckily, dog-safe plants don’t fall into that category. Some of them look like designer plants that belong in a fancy apartment.

If you want that clean, modern look without risking your dog’s health, you can absolutely pull it off. You just need to focus on texture, leaf shape, and pot styling.

The “Designer Plant” Look Without the Toxic Risk

If you want your home to look expensive, go for plants with big leaves or dramatic shapes.

My top picks for that vibe:

• Calathea (gorgeous patterns)
• Areca Palm (tall and lush)
• Bamboo Palm (structured and clean)
• Orchids (minimalist and elegant)

Pair them with neutral pots like white, black, or terracotta, and suddenly your room looks like you hired an interior designer.

Matching Plant Styles With Home Décor Themes

Plants aren’t just plants. They’re part of your décor, whether you admit it or not.

Here’s what matches well:

• Minimalist homes: Bamboo Palm, Orchids, Peperomia
• Boho décor: Areca Palm, Boston Fern, Spider Plant
• Cozy cottage vibe: African Violet, Boston Fern, Parlor Palm
• Modern luxury: Calathea, Orchids, tall palms

I personally love Calatheas in modern spaces because they add personality without looking messy.

The Pot Matters More Than People Think

A plant can look cheap or expensive depending on the pot. I’m not saying you need to buy designer planters, but a decent pot changes everything.

A simple trick is using basket planters for palms and ferns. It makes the plant look warm and stylish instantly. Hanging pots also make spider plants look intentional instead of chaotic.

Plants That Are “Popular” But Dangerous for Dogs (Avoid These)

This part matters a lot because so many common houseplants are toxic. People buy them because they’re trendy, easy to find, and all over social media. Then their dog eats one leaf and suddenly everyone panics.

I’m not trying to scare you, but I am saying this: don’t assume a plant is safe just because it’s common. Some of the most popular plants are the worst ones for pets.

The Biggest Indoor Plant Offenders

Here are plants I would never keep in a home with a curious dog:

• Monstera
• Pothos
• Philodendron
• Peace Lily
• Snake Plant
• ZZ Plant
• Aloe Vera
• Sago Palm

The annoying part is that these plants look amazing. They’re basically the celebrities of the plant world. But they’re also risky, and the risk isn’t worth it.

Why These Plants Cause Problems

Many of these plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the mouth, tongue, and throat. Dogs can drool, gag, vomit, and act miserable after chewing them.

Some plants like Sago Palm are far more serious and can cause liver failure. That’s not “oops my dog ate a leaf.” That’s emergency-level danger.

So yeah, I don’t play around with those. I like my plants, but I like my dog more.

What to Do If You Already Own Toxic Plants

If you already have a toxic plant, you have a few options.

You can:

• Move it to a room your dog can’t access
• Put it on a very high shelf (not just “kind of high”)
• Rehome it to a friend without pets
• Replace it with a similar-looking safe plant

If you want the Monstera look, you can get a palm or a large Calathea instead. It won’t be identical, but it gives the same “lush statement plant” vibe.

How to Build a Dog-Safe Indoor Plant Collection (Without Going Overboard)

Some people buy one plant and stop. Other people buy ten plants in one weekend and suddenly they’re reorganizing their entire home. I don’t judge, but I do recommend starting slowly, especially if you’re not sure how your dog will behave.

Building a safe indoor plant collection works best when you plan it like a small project. You want variety, balance, and plants that fit your lifestyle. If you buy plants that require constant attention, you’ll get tired fast.

I also recommend thinking about your home layout. A plant in the wrong spot can become a chew target, a tipping hazard, or a constant annoyance.

Start With “Low-Risk, Low-Maintenance” Plants

If you’re new to indoor plants, start with easy winners.

My beginner-safe picks:

• Parlor Palm
• Spider Plant
• Peperomia
• Bamboo Palm

These plants tolerate mistakes. They don’t demand perfect watering schedules, and they won’t collapse if you forget about them for a week.

Once you keep these alive, then you can graduate to Calatheas, which are basically the divas of the pet-safe plant world.

Build Variety With Different Sizes and Shapes

A good indoor plant collection has different heights and textures. That’s what makes a room look styled instead of random.

Try mixing:

• One tall palm for a corner
• One hanging spider plant
• A small Peperomia for a shelf
• A flowering African Violet for color

That setup gives you balance without turning your home into a greenhouse.

Think About Safety Beyond Toxicity

Even safe plants can create problems if they fall over. Dogs bump into pots, knock things down, and sometimes get dirt everywhere like it’s their personal mission.

To avoid that, use heavier pots for floor plants and avoid flimsy stands. If your dog has zoomies indoors, choose sturdy planters that won’t tip easily.

Also avoid decorative stones that a dog might swallow. Some dogs will eat literally anything, and yes, that includes rocks.

Care Tips for Dog-Friendly Indoor Plants (So They Don’t Die on You)

Even the safest plant won’t look good if it’s half-dead. And nothing feels more annoying than buying a plant, loving it for a week, and then watching it slowly decline like it’s giving up on life.

Most dog-safe indoor plants have similar care needs, which makes things easier. They usually like indirect light, moderate watering, and decent humidity. You don’t need to be perfect, but you do need to be consistent.

I’ve learned that plant care becomes way easier when you stop treating it like a daily chore and start treating it like a weekly routine.

Light: Bright Indirect Wins Most of the Time

Most indoor plants hate harsh direct sunlight. It burns leaves, dries out soil fast, and makes your plant look crispy.

Bright indirect light works best for:

• Palms
• Calatheas
• Spider plants
• Peperomia
• Orchids

If you only have low light, Parlor Palm is your best friend. It survives where other plants would throw a tantrum.

Watering: Overwatering Kills Faster Than Underwatering

Most indoor plants die from too much love, not too little. People water constantly because they think plants need it daily. They don’t.

A better rule is to check the soil first. If the top inch feels dry, water it. If it still feels damp, leave it alone.

Overwatering causes root rot, which basically turns roots into mush. Once that happens, your plant starts dying quietly, and you don’t realize it until it’s too late.

Soil and Pots: Drainage Is Non-Negotiable

If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, you’re playing with fire. Even if your plant is “easy,” it won’t survive soggy roots.

Use a pot with drainage holes and a saucer underneath. If you want a decorative pot with no holes, use it as a cover pot and keep the plant in a plastic nursery pot inside it.

This one small habit saves more plants than any fancy fertilizer ever will.

Humidity: The Secret Weapon for Ferns and Calatheas

Some plants love humidity. Ferns and Calatheas especially.

If your home is dry, you can:

• Mist occasionally (not obsessively)
• Use a pebble tray
• Place plants near a humidifier
• Keep humidity-loving plants in bathrooms

I personally like using a small humidifier in winter because it helps plants and also stops my skin from feeling like sandpaper.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Indoor Plants

People always have questions about pet-safe plants because the information online feels messy. One website says a plant is safe, another says it’s toxic, and then you start doubting everything. I get it, because I’ve been there.

Here are the questions I hear the most, and the answers that actually make sense in real life.

Are Dog-Friendly Plants Safe If My Dog Eats a Lot of Them?

Even safe plants can cause stomach upset if your dog eats a bunch. Fiber and plant material can still trigger vomiting or diarrhea, especially in smaller dogs.

So yes, they’re non-toxic, but don’t let your dog snack freely. If your dog eats a large amount and starts acting weird, call your vet.

What’s the Best Dog-Friendly Plant for People Who Kill Plants?

If you struggle with plant care, start with Spider Plants and Peperomia. Parlor Palms also handle neglect better than most plants.

I recommend avoiding Calatheas until you get more confident. They look gorgeous, but they can be fussy, and they love to test your patience.

Can I Keep Plants on the Floor With a Dog?

Yes, but only if your dog isn’t a chewer. If your dog loves exploring with their mouth, floor plants become targets.

Tall palms work better on the floor because dogs can’t easily reach the higher leaves. Small floor plants are basically begging for trouble unless you have a calm dog.

Do Dogs Grow Out of Plant Chewing?

Some dogs grow out of it, especially puppies. Others keep chewing plants forever because it becomes a habit.

If your dog chews out of boredom, the habit can last indefinitely unless you add more stimulation. More walks, puzzle toys, and training make a bigger difference than yelling “no” a thousand times.

Are Succulents Safe for Dogs?

Some succulents are safe, but many aren’t. Aloe Vera, for example, is toxic to dogs.

If you want succulents, you need to check each specific variety. Don’t assume all succulents are safe just because they’re trendy and low-maintenance.

Conclusion

Safe indoor plants make life easier because you stop stressing every time your dog walks near your greenery. Once you stick to proven options like spider plants, palms, peperomia, calatheas, and Boston ferns, you can decorate your home without worrying about a surprise vet bill.

I always say it’s smarter to build a plant collection slowly, learn what your dog tolerates, and choose plants that fit your lifestyle. If you want your home to feel alive and cozy, you can absolutely do it without putting your pup at risk.