Is Fraser fir toxic to dogs?

Is Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri) Toxic to Dogs?

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Fraser fir (Abies fraseri) is non-toxic to dogs and is safe to keep in homes with pets as long as precautions are taken.

What is Fraser fir?

Family Pinaceae
Botanical name Abies fraseri
Common names Hickory pine, White spruce, Green spruce, Silver spruce, Colorado spruce
Mature height 25 metres (82 foot)
Needle retention Excellent needle retention
Scent Woody, mild citrus
Native to Appalachian mountains of the eastern United States
Toxicity Non-toxic

Fraser fir is a popular choice for a Christmas tree due to its pyramid shape, fresh fragrance and soft needles. Named after Scottish botanist John Fraser, the Fraser fir is native to the Appalachian mountains of the eastern United States and is a close relative to balsam fir.

Toxicity

Fraser fir is non-toxic to cats. However, ingestion of large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset. The bitter taste will deter most dogs from ingesting a large amount.

What should I do if my dog chews Fraser fir?

If it is safe to do so, carefully remove any remaining plant matter from the dog’s mouth and offer a drink of something tasty such as milk. Ingestion of a few needles should not be a serious risk, but large ingestions do have the potential to cause issues. If your dog has consumed any part of Fraser fir, keep a close eye on the dog and if symptoms such as drooling or vomiting develop, seek veterinary attention.

Signs you should see a veterinarian

Seek veterinary attention if the dog develops clinical signs such as loss of appetite, drooling or vomiting. While Fraser fir is non-toxic, ingestion of pine needles can damage the gastrointestinal tract.

Safety

With proper precautions, homes with dogs can enjoy live Christmas trees.

  • Do not use tree preservers or aspirin in homes with dogs or cats which are toxic if ingested.
  • Cover the drip tray to prevent pets from drinking the water. Even preservative-free water can harbour bacteria which can cause GI upset.
  • Unplug Christmas tree lights when not in use.
  • Secure Christmas trees to the wall with fishing line to prevent pets from knocking them over.
  • Place breakable decorations higher up on the tree to prevent breakage and use twist ties to securely attach decorations to the tree.
  • Do not hang food decorations on trees in homes with pets. Chocolate in particular is toxic to dogs.
  • Block access to the tree with a baby gate, or place in a room that can be shut off.
  • Avoid using decorations or lights which use button batteries which are deadly if ingested. Button batteries are not only a choking hazard but can burn a hole in the esophagus by isothermic hydrolysis.
  • Unless the dog cannot access the tree, wait until Christmas morning to place presents under the tree.
  • Before you bring your Fraser fir inside, give it a good drink of water to ensure it is well hydrated and shake it off to remove any loose needles.

Veterinarians see an increase in accidents and food-related illnesses Christmas period. Christmas should be a happy time for both humans and pets, but caregivers must remember that popular Christmas plants and foods can be hazardous to our pets.

Toxicity of common Christmas trees to dogs

Common name

Scientific name

Toxicity level
Norway spruce Picea abies Non-toxic
Blue spruce Picea pungens Non-toxic
Serbian spruce Picea omorika Non-toxic
White spruce Picea glauca Non-toxic
Nordmann fir Abies nordmanniana Non-toxic
Fraser fir Abies fraseri Non-toxic
Douglas fir Pseudotsuga menziesii Non-toxic
Noble fir Abies procera Non-toxic
Balsam fir Abies balsamea Non-toxic
Grand fir Abies grandis Non-toxic
Scotch pine Pinus sylvestris No information available
White pine Pinus strobus No information available
Virginian pine Pinus virginiana Toxic
Norfolk Island pine, house pine Araucaria heterophylla Non-toxic