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Is this strange woody plant growth in my garden safe for my dog?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shetland Sheepdog | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 10 days old | 3.4 lbs

Does anyone recognise this kind of odd growth I encounter a lot in our garden on plant stems? It looks unhealthy but I'm by no means a botanical expert, just a nervous puppy parent :) it has a woodlike structure, pretty tough. Having a hard time googling it.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 10th, 2017

It looks like a type of crown gall. This type of growth is similar to a burl that grows on a tree. It is usually bacterial or fungal in nature but can be due to trauma to the plant during growth or genetic mutation/defect. It likely isn't toxic unless the plant is toxic. It could cause gastrointestinal upset if chewed or ingested. Eaten whole, it could pose a risk of obstruction.

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