As loving pet parents, we constantly strive to provide the best for our furry companions, and that often includes sharing our food. However, it’s crucial to understand that not all human foods are safe for dogs. In fact, some common household items can be highly toxic, leading to severe illness or even death. Knowing what you are not supposed to feed your dog is paramount to ensuring their health and safety. This guide will serve as your essential resource, distinguishing between safe and harmful foods, helping you prevent potential pet poisonings, and understanding what to do if an accident occurs.
Dogs’ digestive systems and metabolisms differ significantly from humans, which explains why certain foods we enjoy can be detrimental to them. Substances like theobromine and caffeine, found in chocolate, are processed much slower by dogs, leading to a rapid buildup in their system that can be fatal. Similarly, while cherries are a harmless snack for humans, their pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which can be problematic if ingested in large quantities. The pits themselves also pose a digestive risk, potentially causing blockages and diarrhea. It’s important to remember that food toxicity can vary based on a dog’s size, breed, and existing health conditions, making vigilance and a quick call to your veterinarian crucial if you have any doubts. To further protect your companion, understanding what can dogs eat and not eat is a critical first step.
Why Certain Foods Are Toxic to Dogs
The physiological differences between dogs and humans are the primary reason why many human foods are toxic to our canine friends. Dogs metabolize various compounds differently, often much slower, leading to a build-up of harmful substances in their system. For instance, the slower metabolism of theobromine and caffeine in chocolate means these compounds can quickly reach toxic levels in a dog’s body.
Beyond metabolic differences, some foods contain natural toxins that are benign to humans but dangerous to dogs. Cyanide, present in the pits and seeds of certain fruits like apples and cherries, can disrupt red blood cell oxygen transport in dogs. Other hazards include gastrointestinal obstruction from large pits or bones, and the risk of acute pancreatitis from fatty foods. Understanding these underlying mechanisms helps underscore the importance of caution when sharing food with your dog.
List of Common Foods Dogs Cannot Eat
Many everyday household foods are dangerous, and often toxic, to dogs. While this is not an exhaustive list, it highlights the most common foods your dog should absolutely avoid. Always err on the side of caution when in doubt.
1. Alcohol
Due to their smaller size, the effects of alcohol on dogs and cats can be much more severe and deadly than on humans. Even minimal amounts of alcohol can cause significant harm. The smaller the pet, the greater the danger from even a tiny quantity. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs mirror those in humans, including vomiting, breathing difficulties, coma, and even death.
2. Apple, Apricot, Cherry, and Plum Seeds/Pits
While the fleshy parts of apples are safe for dogs, the core and especially the seeds are not. Apple seeds contain cyanide, and though small amounts may not be immediately harmful, it’s safest to avoid the core and seeds entirely. The seeds and pits of apricots, cherries, peaches, and plums should also be strictly avoided. These fruit pits also contain cyanide, which can lead to severe symptoms such as vomiting, an irregular and fast heartbeat, seizures, coma, and even death, by preventing red blood cells from adequately carrying oxygen.
3. Avocado
Avocados are generally not a good choice for dogs. Historically, there have been reports of dogs suffering myocardial damage after consuming avocados, particularly in South Africa. While these specific results haven’t been widely replicated, avocados are known to cause issues in other mammal species. Additionally, an intact avocado pit poses a significant risk of gastrointestinal obstruction if swallowed. Therefore, it’s best to keep this fruit away from your canine companion.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli contains isothiocyanates, which can be harmful to pets if consumed in very large doses. While small, occasional amounts of broccoli might be acceptable for some dogs, it’s often best to avoid it, especially considering the abundance of other healthy and safe vegetable options available. Furthermore, broccoli stalks can sometimes become lodged in a dog’s throat, leading to a choking hazard or obstruction.
5. Caffeine and Coffee Grounds
Caffeine contains methylxanthines, compounds that can cause potentially fatal symptoms in dogs, including diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and an irregular heartbeat. If your dog accidentally ingests coffee grounds or any highly caffeinated drink, their heart rate can dangerously accelerate. This can lead to tremors, arrhythmias, difficulty breathing, and other severe health issues requiring immediate veterinary attention.
A small dog looking intently at a steaming mug of coffee, indicating the danger of caffeine for pets.
6. Chicken and Turkey Skin, Ham, and Other Fatty Cuts of Meat
Fatty cuts of meat, including ham and the skin from chicken or turkey, are best discarded rather than offered as treats to pets. These foods are dangerous for dogs due to their high-fat content, which can trigger acute pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a life-threatening illness with severe complications that can lead to significant discomfort and require intensive veterinary care.
It’s also crucial to avoid feeding turkey and chicken bones. These bones can splinter easily, leading to obstructions in the bowels or causing damage to the stomach or intestines. In severe cases, splintered bones can puncture the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a fatal abdominal infection.
7. Chocolate
Chocolate toxicity is a frequent cause of pet poisoning, particularly during holidays when sweets are abundant. No dog should ever consume any chocolate product. Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which is lethal to dogs; the darker the chocolate, the higher its concentration. Chocolate also contains caffeine, and some sugar-free varieties might even include xylitol, another substance highly toxic to dogs.
Dogs and cats cannot metabolize chocolate as efficiently as humans do. Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate are the most dangerous, but any type of chocolate can be problematic. Ingestion of chocolate can lead to hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, abnormal heart rhythms, and seizures. If your dog consumes any amount of chocolate, no matter how small, contact your veterinarian immediately.
A close-up image of dark chocolate squares, emphasizing the danger it poses to dogs.
8. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are exceptionally dangerous for dogs. These fruits can lead to severe health problems, including acute kidney failure, because the tartaric acid they contain is toxic to canine kidneys. Even a small number of bites can cause significant havoc in a dog’s system.
Symptoms of raisin or grape poisoning can include vomiting and diarrhea, a noticeable loss of appetite, changes in the amount of urine passed (either excessive urination or, more dangerously, no urine production at all). If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, immediate veterinary attention is critical.
A bunch of fresh green grapes, highlighting a common household food that is highly toxic to dogs.
9. Macadamia Nuts, Almonds, and Pistachios
Macadamia nuts are particularly hazardous for dogs, capable of causing various painful symptoms such as weakness, overheating, and vomiting. While the precise mechanism of poisoning remains a mystery, these nuts are definitively recognized as toxic to canines. As few as six macadamia nuts can induce severe poisoning in a small dog.
Although macadamia nuts are the most dangerous, other nuts like pistachios and almonds can also pose risks. These often present choking hazards, especially if not properly shelled or if they are flavored or spiced, which can introduce additional harmful ingredients. It’s always safest to keep all types of nuts away from your dog.
10. Milk and Dairy Products
Milk and other dairy products should be approached with caution and on a case-by-case basis for dogs. While some dogs can consume milk or dairy without issues, many are lactose intolerant or have allergies, which can manifest as diarrhea and gas after consuming cow’s milk.
Ice cream is also unsuitable for dogs due to its high sugar and fat content. Instead of ice cream, consider offering frozen bites of healthy fruits that your dog can safely enjoy. As for cheese, small quantities are generally acceptable, but it’s best to choose lower-fat varieties as an occasional treat rather than high-fat options.
11. Mushrooms
It is always safest to exercise extreme caution and avoid feeding your dog any mushrooms. Mushrooms can contain a wide array of toxins that have the potential to cause serious health issues, including kidney and liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, hallucinations, and damage to red blood cells. While commercially washed, white mushrooms from a grocery store might be considered safer in very small, cooked amounts, it’s generally much wiser to opt for a different, unequivocally safe treat for your pet.
12. Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Dogs should never be fed foods containing nutmeg. This spice contains a compound called myristicin, which can cause severe vomiting and even hallucinations in dogs. Even if your dog seems to be begging for a nutmeg-spiced cookie, it is crucial not to give in. The effects of myristicin are more pronounced with higher doses or in smaller dogs. If your dog ingests any amount of nutmeg, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Cinnamon should also be avoided, not because it is inherently toxic, but because it can irritate your dog’s mouth. In some cases, it can also lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, which can have serious health implications for your pet.
13. Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Leeks
Many pet owners are surprised to learn that herbs belonging to the allium family—such as onions, garlic, chives, and leeks—are not safe for their dogs. These plants contain sulfoxides and disulfides, compounds that can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia in both cats and dogs. It’s important to be vigilant, as onion and garlic powders are frequently found in many prepared human foods, even some baby foods, so always read labels carefully before offering store-bought items to your pet.
In fact, all plants in the allium family, including chives and leeks, can cause potentially fatal anemia in dogs and cats. Certain Japanese dog breeds, such as Akitas and Shiba Inus, exhibit heightened sensitivity to allium plants, but these plants pose a danger to all dog breeds.
A collection of onions, garlic, and chives, signifying common kitchen ingredients toxic to dogs.
14. Salt
Excessive amounts of salt can severely disrupt the fluid balance within your dog’s cells, leading to a condition known as sodium ion poisoning. Too much salt can manifest in symptoms such as tremors, seizures, diarrhea, or even a coma. Whether your dog is eyeing rock salt, homemade play dough, or salty potato chips, it’s essential to resist their pleading eyes and prioritize their health over a momentary treat.
15. Spicy Food
Always keep your dog away from spicy foods. Hot and spicy ingredients can cause significant discomfort and health issues for your pup, including vomiting, stomach ulcers, or diarrhea. These painful conditions can lead to costly emergency veterinary visits. It’s best to stick to bland, dog-appropriate treats to keep your companion happy and healthy.
16. Sugar-Free Gum and Candy (Xylitol)
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in many human foods, especially sugar-free gum, candies, and some baked goods. For dogs, even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), leading to weakness, loss of coordination, and even seizures. Some dogs may also develop severe liver failure.
The incidence of dog poisoning cases involving this artificial sweetener is increasing. To illustrate its potency, the amount of xylitol found in just five pieces of sugar-free gum has the potential to be fatal to a 65-pound dog. Always check ingredient labels carefully, especially for “sugar-free” or “diet” products.
A packet of sugar-free gum and candies, representing xylitol-containing products dangerous to dogs.
17. Tomatoes and Raw Potatoes
Tomatoes and potatoes fall into a category of foods that are safe in some forms but unsafe in others. A ripened red tomato is generally safe for dogs. However, the green parts of the tomato plant, including stems, leaves, and green, unripe tomatoes, contain solanine, a compound toxic to dogs.
Potatoes follow a similar rule. Baked or boiled potatoes, without any additives, are generally safe in small quantities. However, raw potatoes also contain solanine, making them toxic to dogs. Always ensure potatoes are cooked and served plain if you choose to offer them to your pet.
18. Tobacco
Tobacco and nicotine-containing products are extremely dangerous and unhealthy for your dog. Exposure can trigger a range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, rapid or labored breathing, agitation, abnormal heart rate, wobbliness, muscle weakness, fluctuating blood pressure, seizures, and tremors.
More significant or frequent exposure to tobacco can lead to severe signs like blue gums and coma, and ultimately prove fatal. Dogs are naturally curious and might ingest a discarded cigarette on a walk or sniff through an ashtray containing butts. If your dog gets into any tobacco product, immediate veterinary intervention is crucial.
19. Yeast and Raw Dough
Yeast and raw dough pose multiple threats to a dog’s health. The raw dough can expand significantly within your dog’s stomach, causing severe pain and potentially life-threatening conditions such as gastric torsion (bloat) or rupture of the stomach lining.
Furthermore, the yeast and sugar present in raw dough can ferment in the warm, moist environment of the stomach, producing alcohol. This can quickly lead to alcohol toxicity, which can be fatal and necessitates immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to keep all raw doughs out of your dog’s reach.
20. Raw Meat
You should never feed your dog raw or undercooked meat. Raw meat can harbor dangerous bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can cause severe illness in dogs, just as they do in humans. Additionally, raw meat often contains bones that can pose a significant choking hazard or lead to internal injuries if ingested. Always ensure any meat given to your dog is thoroughly cooked and boneless.
Raw ground beef with bones, illustrating the potential dangers of uncooked meat for dogs.
21. Rhubarb
Rhubarb, a plant commonly used in desserts like pies, is not safe for pets. Its leaves contain soluble calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested in large enough quantities, these crystals can bind with calcium in the body, causing a dangerous drop in calcium levels (hypocalcemia) and potentially leading to renal failure. Symptoms to watch for include tremors, weakness, excessive drooling, bloody urine, changes in thirst and urination, and vomiting.
22. Star Fruit
Similar to rhubarb, star fruit also contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals. For the same reasons, it is not advisable to let your dog snack on this fruit. Ingesting star fruit can lead to the same dangerous drop in calcium levels and potential kidney damage as rhubarb, making it a fruit to avoid for your canine companion.
23. Flavored Water and Seltzer Water
It’s best to err on the side of caution and always provide your dog with fresh, clean, plain water rather than anything flavored or carbonated. Seltzer and flavored waters can contain added ingredients that are dangerous for pups, such as sugars, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), or excessive salt. While plain seltzer water might be acceptable in very small amounts if urgently needed, it can often lead to gas and bloating. The safest and healthiest option is always plain water.
What Dogs Are Most at Risk if They Consume Toxic Foods?
While it is imperative to prevent any dog from ingesting toxic foods, certain dogs face a heightened risk of severe complications if exposure occurs.
- Small breeds vs. large breeds: Smaller dogs are inherently more vulnerable due to their lower body weight. Toxic substances, particularly chocolate, can reach dangerous concentrations in their system much faster than in larger breeds.
- Puppies: Younger dogs possess less developed digestive and immune systems. This immaturity places them at a greater risk from various substances, including certain foods and even some raw dog food diets.
- Elderly dogs: Older dogs may face higher risks due to other underlying health conditions they might have. For instance, dogs with existing health problems should generally not be fed raw dog food.
- Dogs with pre-existing conditions: Many pre-existing health issues, such as diabetes or kidney disease, can significantly elevate a dog’s risk of adverse reactions to toxic foods, making vigilance even more crucial.
How To Prevent Dogs from Eating Toxic Foods
While accidents can occasionally happen, proactive measures are crucial to minimize the risk of your beloved pup ingesting unsafe human food.
1. Store Foods Out of Reach
Ensure that all toxic foods are inaccessible to your dog. Keep dangerous items on high shelves that your dog cannot reach, or securely locked away in cabinets that your clever pup cannot open. This physical barrier is often the most effective first line of defense.
2. Avoid Feeding Dogs from Your Plate
Resist the urge to feed your dog directly from your plate or while you are cooking in the kitchen, even if it’s just a small treat. This practice can encourage begging and make it harder for your dog to distinguish between safe and unsafe human foods. It is safest to only offer treats specifically formulated and approved for dogs.
3. Educate Family Members and Guests
It’s vital to educate everyone in your household, including children, and any guests about the dangers of feeding human food to your dog. Make it clear that no matter how tempting it may be, they should never sneak food to your canine companion. Consistency from all individuals interacting with your dog is key to preventing accidental ingestion of harmful items.
4. Be Careful During Holidays
Exercise extra caution during holidays and other busy periods. The hustle and bustle of these seasons, often accompanied by abundant food, can make it easy to lower your guard while cooking or entertaining. Keep all food, especially treats and dishes containing toxic ingredients, securely stored and out of your dog’s reach.
If, despite your best precautions, your dog does consume something toxic, being prepared to act quickly is paramount. Always keep emergency contact information readily accessible for 24/7 veterinary services, including those available on holidays, or for pet poison control hotlines.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic food, seeking help as quickly as possible is critical.
Familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of food toxicity so you can promptly recognize if your dog has eaten something harmful. These symptoms vary depending on the substance ingested but can include listlessness, distress, pain, vomiting, bloody stools, and changes in behavior. In some severe cases, a dog’s stomach may become bloated from gas and feel hard to the touch; this painful condition, known as bloat, can cause the stomach to rupture if not treated immediately.
If you observe any of these symptoms or suspect toxic ingestion, take the following steps:
- Call your veterinarian or a poison control center right away. Time is of the essence in these situations. Treatments are typically more successful, and hospitalization periods are shorter when a dog receives prompt medical attention.
- Be prepared with all relevant information. This includes the type of food eaten, an estimate of the amount consumed, and the approximate time of ingestion. This information will help your vet determine the best course of action.
- Avoid home remedies unless specifically advised by your veterinarian. The appropriate remedies can vary significantly depending on the specific toxin involved. Even inducing vomiting, which might seem helpful, can be harmful or contraindicated in certain poisoning cases. For serious situations, consulting what to feed dogs when they are sick may also be helpful, but only after veterinary consultation regarding the toxic ingestion.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of human foods can be tricky for dog owners, as what’s good for us can often be dangerous for our canine companions. From common household toxins to specific foods like chocolate and grapes, understanding what you are not supposed to feed your dog is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership. By staying vigilant, storing harmful items out of reach, and educating your household, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidental poisoning.
While the list of forbidden foods may seem long, there are also plenty of safe and healthy options your dog can enjoy. Discover which wholesome treats your dog loves, and offer them as rewards for good behavior. When in doubt about any food, always consult your veterinarian to ensure your furry friend’s safety and well-being. By following this guide, you’re taking a vital step towards a healthier, happier life for your beloved dog.
References
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