Is Clover Poisonous For Dogs?

The Short Answer is:

Dogs do not suffer any adverse effects if they eat a small quantity of clover. Dogs shouldn't be given large amounts of it because of the potential for skin irritation, stomach upset, and vomiting.

In this article you will know the answer to the query “Is Clover Poisonous For Dogs?“.

My dog spends a lot of time in the grass whether in the garden at the park or in the fields above my house.

The interesting thing about grass is that its surrounded by other plants. 

Among the things we find on our lawns or in the park is clover.

Since dogs are not fussy if they start chomping on grass they may also be eating clover.

Are there any warning signs in their stool that we should watch for as dog owners or should we just roll our eyes divert their attention and wait?

Would you like to know how it works?

What is clover? Is Clover Poisonous to Dogs?

There are several species of clover each with its own range of chemical compounds. They are often used for animal feed particularly for cattle.

In the wild several species have escaped cultivation and are found on roadsides railway lines and other places.

Assyrian white and red clover species are prevalent in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Some of the most common are listed below but others can be found in a variety of locations.

Yellow clover also known as hop clover is more common in Europe but it can also be found in the United States.

Is Clover Poisonous For Dogs?

It depends is the answer. A small amount of most types of clover is unlikely to pose a lasting threat especially if taken occasionally. However taking large amounts may not be recommended.

When clover is infested with fungus it is another thing to watch out for. Dogs are not the only ones who are poisoned by a fungus attacking clover. It is best to avoid clover that is contaminated with fungus.

There are various chemicals in clover that can pose a threat. Several types of cyanide exist in white clover. The red clover plant contains an estrogen type and is more prone to fungus attack.

Clover is rarely eaten enough by dogs so that it is a problem. It is possible to die from consuming any moldy clover particularly over the course of several weeks. Small dogs may suffer from hemorrhaging after eating one or two mouthfuls each day. Choosing a variant of clover that is designed not to attract mold is a good idea if you desire a clover lawn.

What are the symptoms of clover poisoning? 

If they eat clover on a regular basis some dogs may become photosensitive. White dogs are particularly susceptible to this. It is possible to have an enlarged fibrous liver if you consume large quantities of clover. Although rare it can happen.

Its the mold that poses the biggest problem. A mold containing a blood thinner will slow down your dogs clotting process. Your dog could lose blood when scratched lesioned or suffering from an internal issue. If the moldy clover is eaten for a prolonged period the disease will worsenThere are some things veterinarians can do to help your pooch get over the problem but avoiding it is best..

There are some things veterinarians can do to help your pooch get over the problem but avoiding it is best. Keep an eye out for any problems in your micro clover lawn. For best results select mold-resistant varieties.

Two treatments are available for dogs with sweet clover toxicity: blood transfusions and K1 and K3 administration. By correcting clotting these treatments prevent the problem from progressing to death. 

What are the hidden dangers of dogs eating clover? 

Many are available. A field a lawn or any other area in which human interference is likely may be sprayed with both weed killers and chemical fertilizers. Having urine or droppings from wild animals or farm animals could also pose a danger in certain areas.

Dogs and humans can get sick from herbicides also called weed killers. People are aware of the problems caused by one major brand of herbicide. Cancer has been linked to it in humans. Pets may be affected as well.

When dogs ingest weed killer they have a more acute problem. In that amount of time they can become neurologically damaged experience diarrhea nausea vomiting and even go into a coma. Rodents are another potentially deadly problem. Eventually excessive water drinking leads to blood not clotting and death.

Why do dogs eat grass? 

There are two questions in this… “Why do people think dogs eat grass? There are two schools of thought on this issue. A dog eats grass because he or she does not feel well. A dog also consumes grass because he or she enjoys the taste/taste.

There is a lot more to the real answer than that. Grass should not be eaten because of the possible complications but because there are so many reasons why you might eat it. 

If dogs do not feel well they probably do not eat grass. It does not mean that they are self-medicating or that they are using it to force the issue. In rare cases dogs may vomit after eating the food.

The dog is not an obligate carnivore although it is not quite an omnivore either. Therefore they need some plant material in their diet and if they are not getting enough fibrous stuff in their food they may resort to munching on grass to meet this dietary requirement.

Wild dogs as well as other canids were hunting creatures prior to being domesticated and eating the whole thing once they caught it. It included the stomach contents (gross warning). Plant matter like grass and seeds would typically be present. Thus their diet would be fairly balanced.

It is common for anxiety or boredom to cause dogs to eat grass. They eat it as comfort food and as a way to pass the time while their people are away. Its easy to discourage this either with something to do or with something that smells like them.

Notably nearly half of wolves eat grass as well… and they still roam free. So dogs have no problem eating grass. They are simply following their instincts.

Can dogs eat clover honey? 

Your dog can benefit from small amounts of raw clover honey. Honey however has one caveat: overconsumption can result in serious health problems. Donot feed puppies honey of any kind. 

A dogs gut health is improved by the consumption of raw honey. Processed honey does not contain as many nutrients. It can also contribute to obesity and pancreatitis by adding sugars. If you are purchasing honey for your dog make sure to read the label carefully to ensure it meets your dogs needs.

In what other ways could gardens be dangerous for dogs? 

Your dog is at risk from many plants. One example is the cyanide found in stone fruit pits and seeds. Tobacco potatoes and peppers are members of the nightshade family. For more information it would be wise to visit the AKA poisonous plants page.

Slugs and snails are another potential threat in your garden. Some of them carry parasites that can harm your dogs digestive tract. Some of them carry tapeworms and roundworms. You are at risk of contracting these infections as well. 

Its also possible for your pet to get into trouble with mulch and compost. It contains cacao remnants which makes cacao mulch a particularly problematic material. It contains the same amount of theobromine as regular chocolate and is just as unhealthy. You should be very careful if you use homemade compost as it might contain mold and possibly food poisoning.

What other sprouts can dogs eat? 

Moderate consumption of broccoli and bean sprouts is acceptable. Other foods such as Brussels sprouts may also be considered safe for dogs to eat. Both raw and cooked versions are okay. Sprouts provide your pet with vitamins minerals and fiber.

Can dogs eat healthy microgreens?

Plants grown as microgreens are immature versions of regular plants. Dogs can eat most of the microgreens that we humans consume. Among these are broccoli kale leafy greens mustard cabbage wheatgrass and even sunflower microgreens.

Microgreens have grown up to two inches in height and are a step above sprouts. The full grown version contains fewer nutrients because this is the stage at which the plants grow at the fastest rate.

Do not be concerned about toxicity when you work with mustard microgreens. Although the seeds are toxic the greens themselves are safe and healthy. It is still best to ensure that all seeds have sprouted and grown.

Can dogs eat clover?

Clover can be consumed by dogs in moderation. Like most plant foods dogs can only handle a certain percentage of plant food per day in their diets. For dogs this is around thirty-six percent though it is always wise to check with your vet for his or her recommendations.

Pets can eat a variety of plants that are safe and healthy. Furthermore they provide additional nutritional sources as well as fiber for a healthy digestive system. Choosing what fruits vegetables and nuts your dog eats is a better option for your pet since it will prevent problems.

In a bored or anxious dog inappropriate foods may be consumed. The food does not necessarily have to be grass. Dogs shred their beds when they’re bored so we try to keep him from feeling that way. There may be doggy puzzles with treats at your local pet store that can help prevent boredom and anxiety for dogs. It may also help if your dog wears something you wear.

Most importantly keep in mind that eating some grass is perfectly normal behavior for your dog. Your dog is just doing whats instinctive.

Amanda (Author)

With over a decade of experience, Amanda is a distinguished dog trainer. Her expertise in canine behavior has transformed countless lives, fostering harmonious human-canine connections. Through compassionate and personalized approaches, she empowers owners to understand and connect with their furry companions, creating a legacy of joyful tails and transformed lives.

Osvaldo Maciel (Content Reviewer)

Osvaldo Maciel, a stalwart in the field with 14 years of experience, is a revered dog trainer. His journey is defined by a profound understanding of canine behavior, shaping unbreakable human-canine bonds. Osvaldo guides owners to connect with their beloved pets, leaving an indelible mark of happiness and transformation. His legacy shines through the countless lives he has touched.