As a loving pet parent, ensuring your dog’s safety and well-being is a top priority. While sharing your food might seem like a harmless act of affection, many common human foods are surprisingly dangerous—even toxic—to our canine companions. Understanding What Can Dogs Not Eat List is crucial for preventing accidental poisonings and safeguarding your furry friend’s health. Pet poisonings are a significant concern, with over 401,500 incidents reported annually in the United States, many directly linked to common household foods. This comprehensive guide will serve as your essential “cheat sheet,” helping you navigate the complexities of canine nutrition and keep your dog safe from harmful ingredients. To learn more, explore our list of toxic foods for dogs.
Why Certain Foods Are Toxic to Dogs
The question of “what can dogs eat and not eat?” stems from fundamental physiological differences between humans and canines. Dogs possess distinct digestive and metabolic systems, which means their bodies process certain substances very differently than ours. For example, theobromine and caffeine, found in chocolate, are metabolized much slower by dogs. This slow processing allows these substances to build up quickly in their system, potentially leading to fatal consequences. Similarly, while humans can easily digest cherries, the cyanide present in their pits, stems, and leaves can be problematic for dogs if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, the pits themselves can cause gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea due to their indigestibility, making it safer to avoid them entirely.
Food toxicity can also vary based on a dog’s size, breed, and overall health condition. A substance that might cause mild discomfort in a large, healthy dog could be deadly for a small puppy or a dog with pre-existing health issues. Therefore, it is paramount to consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about specific foods your dog should avoid. This proactive approach ensures you have the most accurate and personalized advice for your pet’s unique needs.
Comprehensive List of Common Foods Dogs Cannot Eat
Many everyday household foods, snacks, and ingredients pose a significant danger to dogs. Some of the most frequently encountered toxic items include alcohol, avocados, macadamia nuts, grapes and raisins, xylitol, and chocolate. However, this section provides an expanded what can dogs not eat list, detailing a broader range of foods that your canine companion should steer clear of for their safety. While extensive, please remember this list is not entirely exhaustive, and vigilance is always recommended. For a more detailed look at the dangers, consider our guide on foods dogs cannot eat.
1. Alcohol
Due to their smaller size compared to humans, even minimal amounts of alcohol can have severe, even deadly, effects on dogs and cats. The smaller the pet, the greater the danger posed by a small quantity of alcohol. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs mirror those seen in humans and can include vomiting, difficulty breathing, a comatose state, or even death.
Glass of red wine, a toxic beverage for dogs
2. Apple, Apricot, Cherry, and Plum Seeds/Pits
While the fleshy part of an apple is generally safe for dogs, the core and seeds are not. Apple seeds contain cyanide, and though small amounts might not immediately be problematic, it is best to avoid the core and seeds altogether. Similarly, the seeds and pits of apricots, cherries, peaches, and plums must be avoided. These fruit pits also contain cyanide, which can lead to severe symptoms like vomiting, an irregular or rapid heartbeat, seizures, coma, and even death. This is due to cyanide’s ability to impair red blood cells’ capacity to transport oxygen effectively.
3. Avocado
Avocados are not a suitable food choice for dogs. Historically, there have been reports of dogs experiencing myocardial damage after consuming avocados, although these results have not always been replicated in studies. However, avocados are known to cause problems in other mammal species. Furthermore, an intact avocado pit poses a significant choking hazard and can cause an obstruction in a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it is safest to keep this fruit away from your dog.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli contains isothiocyanates, compounds that can be harmful to pets in very large quantities. While small, occasional amounts of broccoli might be tolerated, it is generally advisable to avoid it given the abundance of other healthy and safe food options available for dogs. Additionally, broccoli stalks can sometimes become lodged in a dog’s throat, leading to an obstruction.
5. Caffeine and Coffee Grounds
Caffeine is a potent stimulant that contains methylxanthines, which can induce potentially fatal symptoms in dogs, including diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and an irregular heartbeat. Even accidental ingestion of coffee grounds or highly caffeinated beverages can cause a dog’s heart rate to race. This can lead to tremors, seizures, arrhythmias, difficulty breathing, and other alarming symptoms requiring immediate veterinary attention.
6. Chicken and Turkey Skin, Ham, and Other Fatty Cuts of Meat
Fatty cuts of meat, such as ham, chicken skin, and turkey skin, should be discarded rather than offered as treats to pets. These foods are detrimental to dogs due to their high fat content, which can trigger acute pancreatitis—a life-threatening illness accompanied by severe complications. It is also crucial to avoid giving dogs turkey and chicken bones. If these bones splinter, they can cause dangerous obstructions in the bowels or damage the stomach and intestines, potentially leading to fatal abdominal infections.
7. Chocolate
Chocolate toxicity remains one of the most frequent causes of pet poisoning, especially during holidays. Dogs should absolutely not consume any chocolate products. Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound lethal to dogs, with darker chocolates containing higher concentrations. Chocolate also contains caffeine, and some sugar-free variations may include xylitol, another highly toxic substance for canines. Dogs and cats cannot metabolize chocolate as efficiently as humans can. Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate are the most dangerous types, but all forms of chocolate can be problematic. Symptoms of chocolate ingestion include hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, abnormal heart rhythms, and seizures. If your dog ingests any amount of chocolate, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Chocolate bar with cocoa beans, a common household danger for dogs
8. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are exceptionally dangerous for dogs. These fruits can lead to severe health issues, including acute kidney failure, due to the tartaric acid they contain, which is toxic to a dog’s kidneys. Even a small number of bites can cause significant harm. Symptoms of grape or raisin poisoning may include vomiting and diarrhea, loss of appetite, noticeable changes in urine output (either decreased or absent), or a complete inability to urinate.
Fresh red grapes and dark raisins, highly toxic to canine kidneys
9. Macadamia Nuts, Almonds, and Pistachios
Macadamia nuts are particularly toxic to dogs, causing a range of painful symptoms such as weakness, overheating, and vomiting. While the precise mechanism of poisoning is not fully understood, these nuts are definitively considered toxic to canines. As few as six macadamia nuts can induce severe poisoning in a small dog. Beyond macadamia nuts, other nuts like almonds and pistachios, while less toxic, can pose choking hazards, especially if they are flavored, spiced, or consumed in large quantities.
Macadamia nuts, a known cause of weakness and vomiting in dogs
10. Milk and Dairy Products
The suitability of milk and other dairy products for dogs should be assessed on an individual basis. Some dogs can tolerate milk and dairy without issues, while others are lactose intolerant or allergic, experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea and gas after consuming cow’s milk. Ice cream is particularly unhealthy for dogs due to its high sugar and fat content. As a healthier alternative, consider freezing small pieces of safe fruits for your dog. Small quantities of lower-fat cheese can be acceptable as an occasional treat, but high-fat varieties should be avoided.
11. Mushrooms
It is always prudent to exercise extreme caution and avoid feeding any mushrooms to your dog. Mushrooms can contain a diverse array of toxins that may lead to kidney and liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, hallucinations, and damage to red blood cells. While commercially grown white mushrooms from grocery stores might be considered safe, choosing a different, unequivocally safe treat is the most secure option.
12. Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Nutmeg should never be given to dogs, as this spice can induce severe vomiting and even hallucinations due to the compound myristicin it contains. The effects are more pronounced with higher doses or in smaller dogs. If your dog ingests any amount of nutmeg, contact your veterinarian for immediate guidance. Cinnamon, while not inherently toxic, can irritate a dog’s mouth and, in some cases, lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels, which can have serious health implications.
13. Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Leeks
Many pet owners are unaware that herbs belonging to the allium family, including onions, garlic, chives, and leeks, are unsafe for dogs. These plants contain sulfoxides and disulfides, compounds that can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in both dogs and cats. It is vital to check the labels of prepared foods, even baby food, as onion and garlic powders are common ingredients. All allium plants can potentially cause fatal anemia in canines and felines. Certain Japanese breeds, such as Akitas and Shiba Inus, exhibit heightened sensitivity, but these plants are hazardous to all dogs.
Several onions and garlic cloves, harmful allium plants for pets
14. Salt
Excessive salt intake can disrupt the fluid balance in a dog’s cells, leading to serious health issues such as tremors, seizures, diarrhea, or even a coma. Whether it’s rock salt, homemade playdough, or salty potato chips, never allow your dog to consume high amounts of salt, regardless of how much they beg.
15. Spicy Food
Keep all spicy foods away from your dog. Hot and spicy ingredients can cause uncomfortable and painful symptoms like vomiting, stomach ulcers, or diarrhea, potentially leading to costly emergency veterinary visits.
16. Sugar-Free Gum and Candy (Xylitol)
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in many human foods, including sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods. In dogs, even a small amount can trigger a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar, resulting in weakness and seizures. Some dogs may even develop liver failure. Cases of xylitol poisoning in dogs are increasing. The amount of xylitol in just five pieces of sugar-free gum has the potential to be lethal for a 65-pound dog.
Sugar-free gum packs containing xylitol, a severe toxin for 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 acceptable for dogs. However, the green parts of the tomato plant, including stems, leaves, and unripe green tomatoes, contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs. Raw potatoes also contain solanine and are toxic. Cooked potatoes (baked or boiled) without any additives are generally safe in small quantities.
18. Tobacco
Tobacco and any nicotine-containing products are extremely dangerous and unhealthy for dogs. Exposure can lead to a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, rapid or labored breathing, agitation, an abnormal heart rate, wobbliness, muscle weakness, high or low blood pressure, seizures, and tremors. More significant or frequent exposure can cause blue gums, a coma, and ultimately be fatal. Dogs’ natural curiosity can lead them to ingest discarded cigarette butts or other tobacco products. If your dog comes into contact with tobacco, act swiftly and seek immediate veterinary care.
19. Yeast and Raw Dough
Yeast and raw dough pose multiple hazards to dogs. Raw dough can expand significantly in a dog’s stomach, causing severe pain and potentially life-threatening conditions like gastric torsion or stomach rupture. Furthermore, the yeast and sugar in raw dough can ferment within the stomach, producing alcohol and leading to alcohol toxicity. This condition can rapidly become fatal and necessitates immediate medical intervention.
20. Raw Meat
You should never feed your dog raw or undercooked meat. Raw meat can harbor dangerous bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, which are harmful to dogs as well as humans. Additionally, bones present in raw meat can pose a serious choking hazard or cause internal injuries.
21. Rhubarb
Rhubarb, often used in desserts, is unsafe for pets. Its leaves contain soluble calcium oxalate crystals. If consumed in sufficiently large quantities, these crystals can bind with calcium in the body, causing a dangerous drop in calcium levels and potentially leading to renal (kidney) failure. Symptoms include tremors, weakness, 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 your dog’s safety, this fruit should not be offered as a treat.
23. Flavored and Seltzer Water
It is always safest to provide your dog with fresh, plain water rather than any flavored or carbonated varieties. Flavored and seltzer waters can contain added ingredients like sugar or salt that are harmful to pups. While plain seltzer water might be acceptable in very small, urgent amounts, it can still cause gas and bloating. Sticking to regular water is always the best choice for your pet’s hydration.
What Dogs Are Most at Risk if They Consume Toxic Foods?
While all dogs should avoid consuming toxic foods, certain factors can make some dogs more vulnerable to severe reactions. Understanding these risk factors can help pet owners be extra cautious.
- Small breeds vs. large breeds: Smaller dogs are generally more susceptible to the effects of toxic substances, such as chocolate, due to their lower body weight.
- Puppies: Younger dogs have developing digestive and immune systems, making them more vulnerable to certain substances, including potential pathogens in raw dog food.
- Elderly dogs: Older dogs may face higher risks due to underlying health conditions that can compromise their ability to process toxins or recover from illness.
- Dogs with pre-existing conditions: Dogs suffering from conditions like diabetes or kidney disease are at a significantly elevated risk if they ingest toxic foods.
How To Prevent Dogs from Eating Toxic Foods
Accidents can happen, but proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of your beloved companion ingesting unsafe human foods. Here are essential steps to keep your dog safe:
1. Store Foods Out of Reach
Ensure all potentially toxic foods are stored in locations inaccessible to your dog. This means keeping dangerous items on high shelves, in secure cabinets that your pup cannot open, or in tightly sealed containers.
2. Avoid Feeding Dogs from Your Plate
Resist the urge to feed your dog scraps from your plate or during meal preparation in the kitchen. Even if you believe the food is safe, this practice can encourage begging and increase the likelihood of accidental ingestion of harmful ingredients. It is always safest to offer only treats specifically formulated for dogs.
3. Educate Family Members and Guests
Inform all family members, including children, and any guests about the importance of not sneaking food to your dog. Make sure everyone understands which foods are off-limits, regardless of how much your dog might beg.
4. Be Extra Cautious During Holidays
Holidays often involve an abundance of rich foods and a bustling atmosphere, making it easier to let your guard down. Exercise extra caution during these times to prevent your dog from accessing hazardous celebratory foods. If, despite your precautions, your dog consumes something toxic, rapid action is crucial. Keep emergency veterinary contact information readily available, including 24/7 services and poison control hotlines. For further reading on safe and unsafe foods, check out our guide on safe and unsafe foods for dogs.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic food, immediate action is critical. Recognizing the symptoms of food toxicity can help you respond quickly. Symptoms vary depending on the substance consumed but can include listlessness, distress, pain, vomiting, bloody stools, or a hard, bloated stomach (which can indicate a life-threatening condition like gastric rupture).
Should you observe these symptoms, follow these guidelines:
- Call Your Veterinarian or Poison Control Immediately: Time is of the essence in poisoning cases. Early treatment significantly improves success rates and can shorten hospitalization periods.
- Gather Information: Be prepared to provide crucial details, such as the type of food ingested, the estimated amount consumed, and the time of ingestion.
- Avoid Home Remedies: Do not attempt home remedies, such as inducing vomiting, unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian or poison control. Certain remedies can be more harmful than helpful depending on the ingested substance.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Happy
Navigating the world of human foods and their potential impact on your dog can be challenging. From common household toxins to specific dangerous foods, it’s a lot to keep track of. Dogs, being naturally curious, sometimes lack discerning tastes, making your vigilance even more important. By adhering to this guide and remaining proactive, you can significantly protect your dog from foods that could cause them harm. You can also learn more about what fruits dogs should avoid.
The good news is that there are numerous safe and healthy foods that your dog can enjoy as treats! Discover which options from our safe food list your dog loves, and offer them as rewards for good behavior. When in doubt about any food, always consult your veterinarian to ensure your pet’s safety. For those interested in alternative diets, understanding raw diet for dogs is also essential.
Pet insurance offers a valuable layer of protection against unexpected encounters with toxins. Many pet insurance plans can be tailored to your pet’s unique needs, and some even provide access to a 24/7 veterinary helpline, offering peace of mind if you’re concerned about something your pet may have eaten.
Sources/Citations
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