Black Locust Effects on Dogs

The black locust, or Robinia pseudoacacia L., also known as false acacia and yellow locust, is one of several plants hazardous to dogs. As with any poison, symptoms of black locust poisoning include nausea and sometimes vomiting. Being able to identify this plant and to keep your pet away from its seeds and foliage will help you avoid a potential disaster.

  1. What is Black Locust?

    • Black Locust is a dark-barked plant used in fencing and other timber projects due to its durability. It is mostly available in United States, but the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) considers it an invasive species. According to the USDA, black locusts have the ability to push out native plant species. The plant flowers, then drops seeds from those flowers in order to reproduce.

    How Do Dogs Come in Contact with Black Locust?

    • Dogs who live in regions where black locusts grow may come in contact with the plants simply by walking by them, but the negative effects of the plant do not occur unless the dog eats the bark, foliage or black seeds that fall from the plant.

    Effects of Black Locust on Dogs

    • If a dog ingests black locust seeds, foliage or bark, symptoms of poisoning could include loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea and depression, along with neurological damage which can, according to the Dog Breed Info website, lead to a loss of the ability to walk.

    Treatment

    • If you suspect your dog has ingested any part of a black locust plant, call your veterinarian immediately. If you are unable to reach the vet, the Go Pets America website recommends inducing vomiting in your dog until you can get professional help. A "universal antidote" the site offers is a solution of two parts pulverized charcoal, one part magnesium oxide and one part tannic acid. According to the website, mix a teaspoon of the antidote mixture with a glass of warm water, then have your dog drink the water in order to induce vomiting. Only use this method of self-treatment if you are unable to reach a veterinary professional.