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Is it safe for my dog to eat hornworms from my vegetable garden?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female

My Aussie has learned to spot hornworms on my vegetable plants, and glories in eating them. I’m sure this is wild behavior, but I wonder how much is too much? She’s better than pesticides!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 8th, 2017

There does not appear to be any literature or case reports of hornworms having any toxic or adverse effects when eaten by dogs, so she's most likely safe to eat as much as she wants. However, without any good studies, there is no way to know if they have any longterm effects. If she seems to be tolerating them well (not vomiting, or any other obvious changes), then there is little concern that they would be harmful. I hope that helps and all is well with Katie.

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