When it comes to feeding your dog, it’s important to know that not all human foods are safe for them. These foods are healthy for humans, but toxic to dogs. Here’s a list of common foods that you should neverfeed your dog:
Chocolate
Dogs shouldn’t eat chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromineand caffeine. Humans can metabolize these compounds relatively easily, but dogs process them much slowly.
Why Chocolates Are Dangerous for Dogs
Theobromine: This is the primary toxic component in chocolate. It affects the central nervous system and cardiovascular system of dogs. Dogs cannot break down theobromine as efficiently as humans, so it stays in their bloodstream longer, and becomes poisonous.
Caffeine: Chocolate also contains small amounts of caffeine, which has similar effects to theobromine. Both substances lead to dangerous symptoms in dogs.
The level of toxicity depends on
Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate, baking chocolate, and cocoa powder contain higher levels of theobromine compared to milk chocolate and white chocolate.
Amount consumed: The more chocolate a dog eats, the greater the risk of toxicity.
Size and breed of the dog: Smaller dogs are more susceptible to chocolate poisoning than larger dogs. They have less body mass to dilute the toxins.
If a dog ingests chocolate, symptoms can appear within a few hours and may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased thirst and urination
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes or raisins can cause acute kidney failurein dogs. The exact toxic substance in grapes and raisins has not been identified, but the effects are well-documented and potentially life-threatening.
Why Grapes and Raisins Are Dangerous for Dogs
Unknown Toxin: The specific compound responsible for toxicity in grapes and raisins have not been identified. This makes it difficult to determine exactly why they are harmful, but the danger is clear. Some dogs suffer severe reactions after eating a small number of grapes or raisins.
Kidney Damage: The primary concern with grape and raisin ingestion is acute renal failure. When a dog consumes these fruits, the toxins can damage the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood.
Individual Sensitivity: Not all dogs will react to grapes or raisins in the same way. Some dogs may eat them without any immediate symptoms, while others can experience severe reactions after consuming just a few. This variability makes it even more dangerous, as you can’t predict how your dog will respond.
Symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity can appear within 6 to 12 hours after ingestion and may include:
- Decreased urine production (oliguria) or complete cessation of urination (anuria)
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Bad breath
- Seizures
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Onions, garlic, and chives can cause hemolytic anemia in dogs. Hemolytic anemia occurs when the red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them. This reduces the ability to carry oxygen throughout the body.
Why Onions, Garlic, and Chives Are Dangerous for Dogs
Sulfur Compounds: These vegetables belong to the Allium family, and they contain sulfur compounds such as thiosulphatesand sulfoxides, which are toxic to dogs. When ingested, these compounds cause oxidative damage to the red blood cells.
Garlic is More Toxic: Garlic is about five times more toxicthan onions. However, both onions and garlic pose significant risks, especially if consumed in large quantities or over time.
Cumulative Effect: Small amounts of onions, garlic, and chives consumed repeatedly over time can still lead to hemolytic anemia.
Symptoms of toxicity from these foods can take several hours to develop. Common signs include:
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
Avocado
Avocado contains persinand high fat content. Large consumption of avocado harms a dog digestive system.
Why Avocado Is Dangerous for Dogs
Persin: Persin is a fungicidal toxin found in the leaves, skin, seed (pit), and barkof the avocado plant. The concentration of persin varies depending on the part of the plant, with the highest levels typically found in the leaves and skin. While the flesh of the avocado contains lower levels of persin compared to other parts. It can still pose a risk if a dog consumes large quantities.
High Fat Content: Avocado is high in fat. Consuming avocado can lead to pancreatitis.
Choking Hazard from the Pit: The large seed (pit) in the center of the avocado poses a significant choking hazard. If swallowed, it can become lodged in the dog’s throat or digestive tract. It can lead to blockages that may require surgical removal. The pit itself also contains persin.
If a dog consumes avocado in large amounts or if they eat parts of the plant containing higher levels of persin, they may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
- Difficulty breathing
- Pancreatitis
Alcohol
Alcohol affects dogs in much the same way it affects humans, but dogs are far more sensitive to its effects due to their smaller size and different metabolism.
Why Alcohol Is Dangerous for Dogs
Ethanol Toxicity: The primary component of alcoholic beverages is ethanol. Ethanol is toxic to dogs. Ethanol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream after the ingestion. It affects the central nervous system, respiratory system, and other vital organs.
High Sensitivity: Dogs are much more sensitive to the effects of alcohol than humans because of their body size.
The severity of symptoms depends on the amount and type of alcohol consumed, as well as the dog’s size and breed. Common signs of alcohol poisoning include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy or weakness
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Low body temperature
- Seizures
Xylitol
Xylitolis commonly found in sugar-free products like gum, candy, baked goods, and some medications. Xylitol can cause hypoglycemia(low blood sugar) and liverfailurein dogs.
Why Xylitol Is Dangerous for Dogs
Rapid Insulin Release: In humans, xylitol does not stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas. However, in dogs, xylitol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and triggers a rapid and significant release of insulin. This surge in insulin causes the dog’s blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low within 10 to 60 minutes after ingestion. It is called hypoglycemia.
Liver Damage: Xylitol also lead to acute liver failurein some cases. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it appears that xylitol can cause damage to liver cells. Liver failure may occur within 24 to 72 hours after ingestion, and it can be fatal if not treated promptly.
The symptoms of xylitol poisoning can vary depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog. Symptoms typically appear rapidly, often within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion, but liver-related symptoms may take longer to develop. Common signs include:
- Vomiting
- Weakness or lethargy
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors or seizures
- Collapse or fainting
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nutsare highly toxic to dogs. Macadamia nuts can affect the nervous system, muscles, and digestive tract. Ingestion of macadamia nuts can lead to serious health issues, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening.
Why Macadamia Nuts Are Dangerous for Dogs
Unknown Toxin: The specific compound in macadamia nuts that causes toxicity in dogs has not been identified. However, the effects of macadamia nut poisoning are well-documented.
Neurological and Muscular Effects: Macadamia nuts primarily affect the nervous systemand muscles. These effects can be distressing for both the dog and the owner.
Gastrointestinal Upset: In addition to neurological and muscular symptoms, macadamia nuts can also cause vomitingand diarrhea.
Symptoms of macadamia nut poisoning typically appear within 12 hoursafter ingestion and can last for up to 48 hours. Common signs include:
- Tremors or shaking
- Stiffness or difficulty walking
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
Dairy Products
Many dogs cannot properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and other dairy products. While not all dogs will have severe reactions to dairy, consuming it can lead to digestive upset and discomfort in many cases.
Why Dairy Products Are Problematic for Dogs
Lactose Intolerance: To break down lactose, dog’s body need to produce enough lactase. Lactose intolerance happens when the dog can’t product this enzyme. Without sufficient lactase, lactose remains undigested in the intestines, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Puppies typically produce enough lactase to digest their mother’s milk. This ability decreases after weaning. Most dogs lose the ability to produce adequate lactase as they grow older.
High Fat Content: Many dairy products, such as cheese, butter, and cream, are high in fat. Consuming high-fat foods can lead to pancreatitisin dogs.
Potential Allergies: Some dogs may also have an allergyor sensitivity to dairy proteins (such as casein or whey). This can cause additional symptoms like itching, skin rashes, and ear infections.
If a dog consumes dairy products and is lactose intolerant, they may experience the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
Fatty Foods
Fatty foodslike bacon, ham, and fried foods can lead to pancreatitis. While dogs enjoy the taste of fatty, greasy foods, their digestive systems are not equipped to handle high-fat diets. Consuming such foods can result in both short-term discomfort and long-term health problems.
Why Fatty Foods Are Dangerous for Dogs
Pancreatitis: The pancreas is an organ that produces enzymes to help digest food and hormones to regulate blood sugar. High-fat foods cause the pancreas to overwork as it tries to produce enough enzymes to digest the fat. This overproduction can lead to inflammation, causing the pancreas to release digestive enzymes prematurely, which then begin to “digest” the pancreas itself.
Obesity: Fatty foods are calorie-dense. Regular consumption of high-fat foods leads to obesity. This food consumption increases the risk of diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease. Obesity can shorten a dog’s lifespan and reduce their quality of life by making it harder for them to move, breathe, and engage in normal activities.
High Salt Content: Bacon and ham are also high in salt. Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning.
If your dog has consumed fatty foods, especially in large amounts, they may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas (flatulence)
- Abdominal discomfort
Raw Meat, Fish, and Eggs
Raw meat, fish, and eggs can pose bacterial infections, parasitic infections, and nutritional imbalances. While some experts advocate for feeding dogs a raw diet (often referred to as the BARF diet), it is important to understand the potential dangers associated with raw animal products.
Why Raw Meat, Fish, and Eggs Are Dangerous for Dogs
Bacterial Infections: Raw poultry meat can harbor Salmonella. This bacterium can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in both dogs and humans. Dogs can become carriers of Salmonella without showing symptoms, but they can still spread the bacteria to humans through their feces. E. coli can also cause gastrointestinal upset. Campylobacteris often found in raw poultry and can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain in dogs.
Parasitic Infections: Raw pork and lamb can contain Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can infect dogs and humans. This parasite can lead to neurological symptoms, muscle pain, and other complications. Raw fish, especially salmon, trout, and other freshwater fish, can carry tapeworm larvae. If ingested, these larvae can mature into adult tapeworms in the dog’s intestines. This causes weight loss, diarrhea, and nutrient deficiencies.
Raw Eggs: Raw eggs contain avidin, a protein that can interfere with the absorption of biotin(a B-vitamin). Over time, this can lead to a biotin deficiency. Biotin deficiency causes skin problems, hair loss, and poor coat quality. Like raw meat, raw eggs can also harbor Salmonella, posing a risk of bacterial infection.
Bones (Cooked Bones)
While dogs have a natural instinct to chew on bones, not all bones are safe for them, and some can cause life-threatening complications. Bones, especially cooked bones, can pose serious health risks, including choking, intestinal blockages, and injuries to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
Why Bones Are Dangerous for Dogs
Cooked Bones: Cooked bones (especially those from poultry, pork, and beef) become brittle and can easily splinter when chewed. Splinters can cut the gums, tongue, and throat. Sharp bone fragments can puncture the stomach and intestines. Small bone fragments can become lodged in the throat, causing choking or airway obstruction.
Raw Bones: Raw bones are less likely to splinter than cooked bones. They still carry some risks. Chewing on hard bones can fracture a dog’s teeth. Large pieces of raw bone can become stuck in the digestive tract, causing blockages that may require surgery to remove.
Small or Fragile Bones: Small bones (like chicken wings or fish bones) can be swallowed whole or break into small, sharp pieces that pose a choking hazard and cause blockages in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
If your dog has consumed bones and experiences complications, they may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Drooling excessively
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Pawing at the mouth
