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Is Rhubarb Toxic to Dogs? Leaves, Stalks, and What to Do

PawAI Lab
7 min read

Learn why rhubarb is considered toxic to dogs, which parts of the plant carry the greatest risk, what signs may follow ingestion, and the steps a veterinarian may recommend after exposure.

Quick Answer

Yes, rhubarb is toxic to dogs. The leaves contain the highest concentration of harmful compounds, including soluble calcium oxalates and anthraquinone glycosides, which can affect the digestive tract, kidneys, and nervous system. The stalks contain lower levels but are not risk-free. If your dog ate any part of a rhubarb plant, contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service right away, even if your dog appears well.

Before using any tool, contact a veterinary professional if your dog may have eaten rhubarb.

  • US: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)
  • UK: Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) or your nearest veterinary emergency clinic
  • Canada: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)
  • AU: Animal Emergency Centre or your regular vet
  • EU: Contact your nearest veterinary emergency service

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Safety Verdict

Toxic. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) contains two main groups of harmful compounds: soluble calcium oxalates and anthraquinone glycosides. Soluble calcium oxalates differ from the insoluble oxalate crystals found in plants like Dieffenbachia; soluble oxalates are absorbed into the bloodstream and can deposit in the kidneys, potentially causing damage. Anthraquinones act as irritant laxatives and contribute to gastrointestinal signs.

The leaves are the most toxic part of the plant because they contain the highest concentration of both compounds. The stalks, which are commonly eaten by humans, contain lower levels but still pose a risk to dogs, particularly in larger amounts or for smaller dogs.

What Should the Owner Do Now?

  1. Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service immediately. Early guidance can help determine the appropriate next steps based on the amount and part of the plant involved.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison-control professional directly instructs you to do so. Rhubarb can irritate the digestive tract, and incorrect home treatment may worsen the situation.
  3. Collect information about the exposure (see the section below) so the veterinary team can assess the risk accurately.
  4. Do not give food, milk, salt, oil, charcoal, or any home remedy. These are not proven treatments for rhubarb exposure and may cause harm.
  5. Bring a sample of the plant or a clear photo if you visit a clinic, especially if the source was a garden plant rather than a packaged food product.

What Signs May Occur?

Signs of rhubarb exposure in dogs may develop within a few hours of ingestion, though the timeline can vary depending on the amount and part of the plant consumed. Not all signs will appear in every dog.

Early signs may include:

  • Drooling or pawing at the mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea, which may be watery
  • Reduced appetite
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort

If soluble oxalates are absorbed in significant amounts, additional signs may appear, including:

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Weakness or lethargy
  • Tremors or muscle twitching
  • Changes in urine output
  • Signs of kidney strain, which a veterinarian can detect through blood work

The absence of early signs does not necessarily rule out risk, particularly when leaves have been consumed. This is why professional evaluation is recommended even if a dog initially appears normal.

What Information Should Be Ready?

When you contact a veterinarian or poison-control service, having the following details available can help them assess the situation:

  • Dog's details: species, breed, approximate age, and body weight
  • Part of plant consumed: leaves, stalks, roots, or a food product containing rhubarb (e.g., pie, jam, crisp)
  • Estimated amount: best guess of how much was eaten
  • Time of ingestion: when the exposure occurred, or the window during which it may have happened
  • Current symptoms: any drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or changes in drinking and urination
  • Packaging or recipe: if a prepared food was involved, the ingredient list and whether it contains xylitol, raisins, or other toxic ingredients
  • Medical history: any pre-existing kidney disease, current medications, or other health conditions

Differences That May Affect Risk

Several factors can influence the severity of rhubarb exposure in an individual dog:

  • Part of the plant: Leaves carry the greatest risk due to higher concentrations of soluble oxalates and anthraquinones; stalks contain lower levels.
  • Amount consumed: Larger ingestions, particularly of leaves, are more likely to cause significant effects.
  • Dog size and age: Smaller dogs and puppies may be more affected by a given amount than larger adults.
  • Existing kidney disease: Dogs with compromised kidney function may be more vulnerable to the effects of soluble oxalates.
  • Concurrent ingredients: Rhubarb-containing baked goods may also include xylitol, raisins, macadamia nuts, or other toxic ingredients that change the overall risk.

When to Contact a Veterinarian

Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service immediately if your dog has eaten any part of a rhubarb plant, particularly the leaves. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Emergency signs that require urgent veterinary attention include:

  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
  • Lethargy, weakness, or collapse
  • Tremors or muscle twitching
  • Noticeable increase or decrease in urine output
  • Refusal to eat or drink
  • Signs of abdominal pain

Non-urgent follow-up: If a small amount of stalk was eaten and your dog appears normal, a veterinary consultation is still recommended to confirm the level of risk and determine whether monitoring or treatment is appropriate.

FAQ

Which part of rhubarb is most toxic to dogs?

The leaves are the most toxic part of the rhubarb plant. They contain higher concentrations of soluble calcium oxalates and anthraquinone glycosides than the stalks. The stalks are not risk-free, but they are generally considered less hazardous in small amounts.

What happens if a dog eats a rhubarb stalk?

A small amount of rhubarb stalk may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. Larger amounts can introduce more oxalates and anthraquinones, which may increase the risk of kidney strain. Contacting a veterinarian for guidance is recommended after any ingestion.

Can rhubarb cause kidney failure in dogs?

Rhubarb contains soluble calcium oxalates, which can be absorbed and may deposit in the kidneys, potentially causing damage in significant exposures. Kidney effects are not guaranteed after every ingestion, but the possibility is why prompt veterinary evaluation is advised, particularly when leaves are involved.

Is rhubarb pie safe for dogs to eat?

Rhubarb pie and similar baked goods are not recommended for dogs. Beyond the rhubarb itself, these products often contain high sugar levels and may include other ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as raisins or xylitol. If your dog ate rhubarb pie, contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service.

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Disclaimer

This article and the PawAI Toxicity Checker provide general safety information and cannot determine an individual pet's toxicity risk or replace a veterinarian or animal poison-control service. If exposure may have occurred, contact an appropriate professional promptly, even if your pet appears well.

Written by PawAI Lab