Question 1

What type of mulch should I avoid for my dog?

Accepted Answer

As your dog is going to be in close contact with the mulch, when sleeping, playing, and rolling as well as potentially trying to eat it, there are some forms of mulch which are an absolute no-go when it comes to your pet. Here’s the lowdown on the ones pet owners must avoid:

Question 2

What can happen if my dog eats mulch?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to try and prevent your dog from eating the mulch you have put down, or at the very least ensure it is non-toxic and safe for them to have the odd chew. It is also important to observe your dog when your first lay a new mulch down, not only to assess their likelihood of chewing (and stepping in if they are chewing too much) but to also see if they have any allergic reaction. If your dog has a reaction to the mulch, remove it immediately and look for an alternative product. However, if the reaction in your pooch is severe, get them to the vet pronto for a check-up. Large chunks of mulch can be dangerous and so should also be avoided, as these can entice puppies or a dog prone to chewing to have a chomp and can cause an obstruction if swallowed. And if you do suspect mulch poisoning (especially if your dog has chewed one of the types of mulch that's on our ‘avoid’ list), seek professional veterinary help.