If you’re a dog owner and a gardener, you’ve probably caught your pup chewing on something they shouldn’t — including tree bark. But is tree bark bad for dogs? And what can you do to keep your garden safe for your furry friend?
Let’s dig into the risks, the reasons behind this curious behavior, and how to create a dog-friendly garden that’s both beautiful and safe.
Is Tree Bark Bad for Dogs?
The short answer: It can be. While not all tree bark is toxic, chewing on bark or branches can pose several dangers to dogs, depending on the type of tree, the size of the dog, and how much is consumed.
Here are the main risks:
1. Choking and Blockage
Large pieces of bark can splinter or break off, creating a choking hazard or causing internal blockages if swallowed. This is especially dangerous for puppies and small breeds.
2. Toxic Trees
Some tree species have bark, leaves, or sap that are toxic to dogs. Common toxic trees include:
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Black walnut
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Cherry (including wild cherry)
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Yew
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Red maple
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Oak (in large quantities due to tannins)
Ingesting bark from these trees can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, organ damage or death. If you suspect your dog has eaten bark from a toxic tree, contact your vet immediately.
3. Chemical Treatments
If your trees or mulch have been treated with pesticides, herbicides, or chemical preservatives (like dyed mulch), these substances can be harmful when ingested.
Why Do Dogs Chew Bark?
Before you can stop the behavior, it helps to understand why it happens. Dogs might chew tree bark due to:
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Teething (in puppies)
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Boredom or anxiety
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Lack of toys or stimulation
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Nutritional deficiencies
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Curiosity or instinctual behavior
Some dogs even chew bark as part of digging or hunting behavior, especially in more wooded or rural areas.
Dog-Safe Gardening Tips
Whether you’re starting a new landscape or trying to make your existing garden more pet-friendly, here are some practical tips:
1. Identify and Remove Toxic Trees
If you’re unsure whether a tree in your yard is safe, do a quick check using resources like the ASPCA’s toxic plant database. If you have a tree that’s toxic, consider:
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Installing a barrier or low fence around the tree
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Raking up fallen branches and bark regularly
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Training your dog to avoid the area
2. Avoid Cocoa Mulch
Cocoa mulch smells great and looks attractive, but it contains theobromine, the same compound in chocolate that’s toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can be dangerous.
Stick with dog-safe alternatives like:
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Cedar mulch
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Pine mulch
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Rubber mulch (non-toxic brands)
Always check the label and source — even natural mulches can sometimes be treated with chemicals.
3. Offer Chew Alternatives
Provide plenty of safe chew toys to keep your dog occupied. Puzzle toys, bones, or even frozen carrots can redirect their chewing instincts away from the trees.
Also, make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation — boredom is often the root of destructive behavior in the garden.
4. Create a Designated Dig Zone
If your dog is prone to digging or chewing bark, create a dog-friendly play area in the yard:
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Fill it with sand or soft soil
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Bury toys or treats for discovery
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Train your dog to use that area instead of your landscaping
This helps protect your trees and satisfies your dog’s natural instincts.
5. Use Natural Deterrents
If your dog targets specific trees or shrubs, you can try using natural deterrent sprays made from:
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Citrus (dogs usually dislike the smell)
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Vinegar (sprayed lightly around, not directly on plants)
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Commercial dog-repellent sprays (look for non-toxic brands)
Always test sprays in a small area first and monitor your dog’s reaction.
6. Keep a Clean Yard
Fallen branches, bark, sticks, and decaying wood are tempting for dogs. Regularly clean your yard to remove:
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Loose bark or mulch
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Fallen sticks
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Tree debris, especially after storms
A tidy yard is a safer yard.
When to Call the Vet
If your dog has eaten bark and shows any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary attention right away:
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Lethargy
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Drooling
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Difficulty swallowing or breathing
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Loss of appetite
Even if symptoms seem mild, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Final Thoughts
Tree bark isn’t always bad for dogs, but it can be — especially if it comes from a toxic species or is consumed in large amounts. With a few precautions, you can create a dog-friendly garden where both plants and pets can flourish.
So go ahead — plant that garden, enjoy the greenery, and keep tails wagging with a safe outdoor space for your pup.
