It’s crucial for every dog owner to know what are things dogs cannot eat to ensure our furry friends stay healthy and safe. Our canine companions, while seemingly able to eat anything, have very different digestive systems than humans. Some seemingly harmless foods for us can be severely dangerous, even fatal, to dogs. Let’s dive into what should be kept far away from your dog’s bowl.
Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs
Certain foods are downright poisonous to dogs due to compounds that their bodies can’t process. Understanding these hazards is the first step to keeping your dog safe.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a well-known hazard for dogs, primarily due to theobromine, a stimulant that dogs cannot metabolize effectively. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous because they contain the highest levels of theobromine. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, tremors, and seizures. Small amounts might just cause some digestive upset, but larger quantities can be life-threatening.
“I’ve seen far too many cases of chocolate toxicity in my career,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a veterinary nutritionist. “Even small amounts can have a significant impact, especially in smaller breeds. It’s always best to keep all chocolate well out of reach.”
Grapes and Raisins
Surprisingly, grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs, and scientists aren’t entirely sure why. Even a small handful can cause kidney failure in some dogs. The symptoms to watch out for include lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite. If your dog ingests grapes or raisins, it’s essential to seek immediate veterinary attention.
Onions and Garlic
Onions, garlic, shallots, and chives belong to the Allium family and are toxic to dogs, whether cooked, raw, dried, or powdered. These foods contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. While a tiny amount might not cause significant issues, regular consumption or ingestion of large quantities can cause serious health problems, including lethargy, pale gums, and weakness. This is definitely something you need to avoid when considering what foods can a dog have.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are another food item that is poisonous to dogs. Although the exact toxin is unknown, they can lead to symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hypothermia. Luckily, macadamia nut poisoning is rarely fatal, but it can be quite unpleasant for your dog, and veterinary intervention is usually needed.
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum, candies, toothpaste, and even some baked goods. It is extremely toxic to dogs because it causes a rapid release of insulin, leading to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Ingesting xylitol can cause liver failure, seizures, or even death in dogs. Keep anything containing xylitol far away from your pet.
Foods That Can Cause Digestive Problems
Besides the outright toxic foods, some foods can cause digestive upset or other health problems. These are things you might not expect, but are crucial to know for your dog’s well-being.
Dairy Products
Many adult dogs are lactose intolerant. Feeding them dairy products like milk, cheese, or ice cream can result in digestive upset, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea. While small amounts might not cause severe issues, it is something that might make your dog feel bad. If your dog has diarrhea, understanding what should a dog with diarrhea eat is essential.
Avocado
Avocado contains a toxin called persin, which can be harmful to dogs. While most of the toxic substance is in the leaves, bark, and seeds, even the fruit can cause stomach upset. Persin is not highly poisonous to dogs, but it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. It’s best to avoid avocado altogether.
Raw Dough
Unbaked bread dough is dangerous for dogs. The yeast in the dough can continue to rise in the warm, moist environment of the stomach, causing bloating and gas. The rising dough can lead to serious discomfort, pain, and even gastric torsion. Additionally, the alcohol by-product of yeast fermentation can be toxic to dogs.
Bones
While the idea of a dog chewing a bone seems natural, cooked bones are a significant danger. They can splinter and cause internal injuries or create obstructions. Raw bones are sometimes considered okay, but pose the risk of bacterial contamination. It is far safer to offer your dog designated chew toys rather than bones.
Caffeine
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, is a stimulant that can be toxic to dogs. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning in dogs include restlessness, hyperactivity, vomiting, elevated heart rate, and potentially seizures. Even small amounts can affect a dog’s central nervous system.
Understanding the Risks: Beyond Food
Beyond actual food items, there are other household substances that can be harmful to your dog. Be vigilant about what your dog can access.
Medications
Never give your dog human medications without veterinary approval. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can be extremely dangerous for dogs due to different dosages and metabolic pathways. Always consult with a vet before administering any medication to your dog.
Cleaning Products
Cleaning products, especially those containing bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals, are incredibly toxic if ingested. Store cleaning supplies where dogs cannot access them to prevent accidental poisoning. Even small amounts can cause burns, gastrointestinal upset, and chemical toxicity.
Ice Melt
Ice melt products can be dangerous if ingested. The chemicals, such as sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or magnesium chloride, can cause gastrointestinal distress, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. Pay attention to what to do if your dog eats ice melt, because knowing what to do right away is important.
Plants
Many common houseplants and garden plants can be toxic to dogs. Be aware of plants like lilies, azaleas, rhododendrons, sago palms, and oleanders, among others. Ingestion can lead to organ damage and even death. Research any new plants to ensure they’re safe for dogs before bringing them into your home.
“I always tell my clients to be as careful about what’s in their house as they are about what’s in their dog’s food bowl,” says Dr. Michael Chen, a veterinary toxicologist. “Hidden hazards are everywhere, and prevention is the best approach.”
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Something They Shouldn’t
If you suspect that your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t, time is of the essence. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. Knowing what was ingested, the quantity, and the time it was consumed will be helpful to the veterinarian. Don’t induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a vet.
- Stay Calm: Try to remain calm so you can clearly assess the situation.
- Gather Information: Determine what your dog ate, how much, and when.
- Contact a Professional: Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center.
- Follow Instructions: Do exactly what the vet or poison control center advises.
- Observe Your Dog: Watch for any symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or tremors.
Creating a Safe Environment
The key to preventing accidental poisoning is creating a safe environment for your dog. This involves careful storage of harmful substances, being vigilant about what your dog has access to, and understanding what they can and cannot eat.
- Store Food Safely: Keep dangerous foods out of your dog’s reach, high up and in tightly sealed containers.
- Secure Cleaning Supplies: Place all cleaning products and chemicals in closed cabinets or high shelves.
- Be Plant Savvy: Research plants before you bring them into your home or garden.
- Train Your Dog: Teach your dog the “leave it” command to prevent them from picking up dangerous things.
- Supervision: Always monitor your dog, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what are things dogs cannot eat is fundamental to being a responsible dog owner. Understanding which foods are toxic, what can cause digestive upset, and the hidden dangers around your home will keep your dog healthy and safe. Prevention and awareness are your best tools to avoid accidental poisoning. By being informed and vigilant, you can ensure your beloved pet has a long and happy life. Remember, if you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to consult with your vet. For those wondering, what can dogs eat if they have diarrhea , that’s also something you should talk to your vet about.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it okay for my dog to eat a small piece of chocolate?
Even a small piece of chocolate can be harmful to dogs, depending on the type of chocolate and the size of your dog. It’s best to avoid giving chocolate to your dog altogether.
2. What should I do if my dog ate a grape?
If your dog eats a grape or raisin, it’s vital to contact your veterinarian immediately, even if they seem fine. It’s a serious matter that should not be ignored.
3. Can dogs have peanut butter?
Most dogs can have unsalted peanut butter, but it’s important to make sure it does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Always read the ingredient label carefully.
4. Is it safe for my dog to chew on cooked bones?
No, cooked bones are not safe for dogs. They can splinter and cause serious internal injuries or obstructions. Choose safe chew toys instead.
5. What are the symptoms of poisoning in dogs?
Symptoms of poisoning can vary depending on the substance ingested, but common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, seizures, and difficulty breathing.
6. Are all nuts bad for dogs?
While some nuts like macadamia nuts are toxic, others like almonds and cashews might cause digestive upset. However, it’s better to be cautious and avoid nuts altogether.
7. Can I give my dog human medication?
Never give your dog human medication without consulting a vet first. Dosages and effects vary significantly between humans and dogs, and many human medications are dangerous to dogs.