While many dog owners give their canine friends table scraps, it's important to understand exactly which human foods can be poisonous to dogs and why it's critical to keep them out of your pup's reach. Here, our Parrish vets share an extensive list of foods and treats that are toxic to dogs.
As a responsible pet owner, you likely want to do everything you can to keep your dog healthy. Providing a safe, nutritious diet is one critical aspect of caring for your pet. Unfortunately, some foods that dogs may try to eat can be harmful and even toxic to our four-legged friends. Even if your dog ingests only a small amount of a toxic food or substance, this can trigger serious illness, which can result in a veterinary emergency and even death.
Here is a list of common household foods and treats that are toxic to dogs.
1. Products That Contain Xylitol
The artificial sweetener xylitol is found in many types of candy, baked goods, sugar-free gum, and some brands of peanut butter. It is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a dog's body to release insulin suddenly, which can trigger a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Xylitol ingestion can cause vomiting, seizures, loss of coordination, and liver failure. Always check ingredient labels carefully and store products that contain xylitol out of your dog's reach.
2. Caffeine & Chocolate
Products that contain caffeine and chocolate, such as energy drinks, coffee grounds, brownies, and chocolate bars, should never be given to dogs as a snack. These contain methylxanthines, which are naturally occurring substances but can cause a variety of reactions in dogs, from increased agitation and heart rate to seizures and even death.
3. Grapes & Raisins
While raisins and grapes are generally healthy for humans, they can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even a small amount can lead to severe illness, so it's extremely important to keep them away from your pooch.
4. Onions & Garlic
Whether you serve them raw, cooked, or powdered, onions and garlic and damage a dog's red blood cell production and potentially lead to anemia. Do not feed your pup any foods (including certain sauces and seasonings) that contain these ingredients.
5. Avocado
Though people can benefit from the healthy fat and disease-fighting properties in avocados, this fruit can be toxic to dogs. Persin is an ingredient in avocados that can damage your dog's gastrointestinal tract. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and pancreatitis in your canine friend.
6. Corn on the Cob
Although corn kernels themselves can mostly be safely ingested by dogs, the cob (or pieces of it) are very difficult for your dog to pass through their system. Ingesting cob could lead to physical blockages and even tearing of the stomach lining.
7. Cooked Bones
Speaking of tearing the stomach, cooked bones are extremely dangerous for your dog to eat. While they are not actually "toxic" or "poisonous," we believe they belong on this list as something you should absolutely never feed your dog. Cooked chicken, beef, or pork bones can splinter when chewed and tear the lining of your dog's throat, intestine, and stomach. Further, cooked bone marrow can be hard for dogs to digest.
A good alternative to this would be rawhide or vet-approved dog bone treats.
8. Alcohol
Even in small doses, alcohol can have a great impact on your dog's health. The components of alcohol can cause sickness and diarrhea in dogs, as well as central nervous system damage. So make sure you aren't giving your pooch a piece of that steak if you cooked it with red wine!
What else do I avoid feeding my dog?
When it comes down to it, the best way to ensure you aren't feeding your pooch something toxic is to ask your veterinarian if the food or snack you plan to feed your dog is safe. Before making it a habit to feed your dog things from your plate, get clearance from your vet. Your dog's age, breed, and size can also impact which foods are okay to feed them and which ones aren't.
Remember, it never hurts to ask, and it's better not to give your dog a treat from your plate until you're absolutely certain it is safe to do so.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.