are laurel berries poisonous to dogs

Laurel berries are indeed poisonous to dogs. Laurel plants, including the berries, contain a neurotoxin called grayanotoxin that can interfere with nerve and muscle function, including the heart. Ingesting any part of the laurel plant can cause severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, lethargy, tremors, seizures, and respiratory issues. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a dog is suspected of consuming laurel berries or any part of the plant. Additionally, most species of laurel hedges, except for Bay Laurel, are toxic to dogs due to the presence of hydrocyanic acid and cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause gastrointestinal and other systemic problems. Cherry laurel, a common hedge plant, is also poisonous to dogs, containing prussic acid which produces harmful cyanide in the body. Therefore, it is important to keep dogs away from laurel plants and berries to prevent poisoning.