The everyday garden hazards experts want dog owners to check this spring

Chelsea Flower Show may be inspiring gardens, but some features can be risky for dogs

As gardens across the UK are refreshed for spring, experts are warning that many of the features homeowners are adding this season could pose hidden risks to dogs.

With the RHS Chelsea Flower Show set to inspire millions of garden makeovers this May, it is not just traditional toxic plants owners should be aware of. Everyday items such as compost, fertilisers and even standing water can create unexpected hazards, particularly as dogs begin spending more time outdoors.

According to Darren Beale, CEO of Years, the fresh dog food brand, spring presents a perfect storm of increased exposure and overlooked risks.

“Many owners are aware of certain plants being toxic, but it is often everyday garden items people do not think twice about that can cause problems,” he says.

“As dogs spend longer outside in warmer weather, they are naturally more curious, which increases the chance of them ingesting or coming into contact with things that can make them unwell.”

The garden hazards most dog owners overlook

Rather than focusing solely on well-known poisonous plants, experts are urging owners to take a broader view of garden safety this season.

Compost and mulch

Compost heaps and bags can contain moulds that produce toxins harmful to dogs if ingested. Cocoa mulch, in particular, contains compounds similar to chocolate and can be especially dangerous.

“Dogs are often drawn to compost because of the smell, but it can be one of the more serious risks in the garden,” says Darren Beale. “Even small amounts can cause symptoms quickly.”

Slug pellets and fertilisers

Slug and snail pellets, along with lawn fertilisers, are among the most common causes of garden-related poisoning in pets. Many contain chemicals that are highly toxic if eaten.

“These products are often used more frequently in spring, and they are rarely stored or applied with pets in mind,” Darren Beale adds.

Grass seed and sharp debris

Grass seed heads, which become more common as lawns grow, can easily lodge in a dog’s paws, ears or skin, sometimes requiring veterinary treatment.

“They might seem harmless, but grass seeds can cause significant irritation and even infection if they embed under the skin,” he explains.

BBQs and food waste

With the return of outdoor dining, BBQ areas can present multiple risks, from discarded skewers to fatty scraps and cooked bones.

“Dogs will often scavenge if given the opportunity, and foods like onions, cooked bones or skewers can be particularly dangerous,” says Darren Beale.

Standing water and garden features

Water features, paddling pools and even buckets of stagnant water can harbour bacteria, parasites or blue-green algae, which can be harmful if ingested.

“As temperatures rise, bacteria can build up quickly in standing water,” he adds. “It is something many owners do not consider, but it can lead to illness.”

Why spring increases the risk

Experts say the seasonal shift itself plays a key role.

“In spring, gardens become more active spaces, both for people and their pets,” says Darren Beale. “There is more planting, more chemicals being used, more outdoor eating, and more time spent outside overall.

“That combination naturally increases the likelihood of exposure.”

What dog owners should do

Rather than avoiding gardens altogether, experts recommend a few simple precautions:

• Store compost, mulch and chemicals securely and out of reach
• Avoid using cocoa mulch or pet-toxic slug pellets
• Check lawns and outdoor areas for sharp debris or grass seeds after mowing
• Supervise dogs around BBQs and outdoor food areas
• Refresh water in outdoor bowls regularly and avoid letting dogs drink from stagnant sources

“Most of these risks are manageable with a bit of awareness,” Darren Beale adds. “It is about seeing the garden from your dog’s perspective and spotting what they might be drawn to.”