Most dog owners love giving their canine companions scraps from the table, but it's important to know exactly which human foods and treats can be toxic to dogs and why it is important to keep them out of reach when you're away. In this post, our Seattle vets share a comprehensive list of foods that are toxic to dogs.
It is critical for us as responsible pet owners to ensure the health and well-being of our beloved dogs. One critical aspect of their care is providing a nutritious and safe diet. Unfortunately, certain types of dog food can be toxic and harmful to our four-legged friends.
Below is a list of common household foods that are toxic to dogs.
1. Xylitol-Containing Products
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is common in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and some peanut butter brands. It is extremely toxic to dogs and can result in an unexpected release of insulin, resulting in a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Ingestion of xylitol can cause symptoms such as vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and liver failure. Always read the label and keep xylitol-containing products out of your dog's reach.
2. Chocolate and Caffeine
Dogs should never be given chocolate or caffeine-containing products such as coffee grounds or energy drinks. These contain methylxanthines, which can cause symptoms ranging from agitation and increased heart rate to seizures and even death.
3. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins may seem harmless, but they can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even a small amount can lead to severe illness, so it's crucial to keep them away from your canine companion.
4. Onions and Garlic
Raw, cooked, or powdered onions and garlic can harm a dog's red blood cell production and potentially lead to anemia. It's best to avoid feeding them anything with these ingredients, including seasonings and sauces.
5. Avocado
While avocados are a healthy fat that offer numerous health benefits for humans, they can be toxic to dogs. There is a content in avocados called persin which is damaging to dogs' GI tracts. it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis in canines.
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
Cooked bones, which can tear the stomach, are extremely dangerous for your dog to eat. While they are not technically "toxic" or "poisonous," we believe they should be on this list of things you should never feed your dog. Cooked chicken, beef, or pork bones can splinter and tear the lining of your dog's throat, intestine, and stomach. Cooked bone marrow can also be difficult 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 should I avoid feeding my dog?
When it comes down to it, the best way to ensure you're not giving your dog anything toxic is to consult with your veterinarian. Before you start feeding your dog things from your plate, consult with your veterinarian! Not to mention that your dog's age, breed, and size can all influence which foods are safe to feed them and which are not.
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.