Gardeners’ World host Monty Don issued a warning to dog owners during an episode of his BBC hit show
Monde Mwitumwa and Emmanuella Ngimbi
14:51, 28 Feb 2026
Monty Don warned dog owners(Image: BBC)
Monty Don made his return to the BBC with the latest edition of Gardeners’ World, but as the programme began, he felt compelled to issue viewers with an important caution. With spring approaching, the renowned horticulturist showcased early-season produce, with rhubarb taking centre stage.
Throughout the segment on the BBC Show, the 70 year old was filmed working in his garden, harvesting the robust vegetable stems from the ground, whilst mentioning his plant has been with him for 36 years.
Whilst demonstrating to audiences: “Never cut it, you always pull rhubarb,” he delivered a crucial safety message regarding the plant’s foliage.
The gardening expert cautioned: “Of course, you don’t eat the leaves, and in fact, rhubarb leaves are poisonous for dogs. Not that I’ve ever known a dog want to eat a rhubarb leaf, but if you find your dog eating it, stop it.”
Monty Don’s dog Ned makes regular appearances on the show(Image: BBC)
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As Monty outlined the hazards associated with rhubarb leaves, his charming golden retriever, Ned, made an appearance on camera with his eyes shut, whilst the BBC presenter positioned the basket of produce nearby.
Based on information from Rover.com, rhubarb foliage contains soluble oxalate crystals, presenting two primary health risks for canines, including depleted calcium levels, as the compound attaches itself to calcium within the dog’s system, reports the Express.
Additionally, it may lead to renal failure, as soluble oxalate crystals build up in the kidneys and harm the organ. Warning signs to watch for include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and abdominal pain.
Monty Don warned of rhubarb leaves being poisonous to dogs(Image: BBC)
More severe symptoms can involve tremors, weakness, bloody urine and possible kidney failure. Monty’s cautionary message follows shortly after he posted a “tragic” update regarding his home life with Ned.
Speaking to his 1.5 million Instagram followers, the presenter uploaded an endearing video of his golden retriever clutching a ball in his mouth, refusing to release it – behaviour the host described as entirely typical in their household.
In the caption, Monty remarked: “It’s tragic how much pleasure this endless game gives Ned (and me).”
However, whilst he considered it tragic, his followers responded quite differently, filling his comments section with delight.
You can catch up on Gardeners World on BBC iPlayer
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