As devoted pet parents, we often want to share our meals with our furry companions. However, many common household foods can pose serious health risks, even being toxic to dogs. Understanding which foods are safe and which to avoid is crucial for your dog’s well-being. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of human foods and your dog’s diet, offering insights into why certain foods are dangerous and providing lists of both toxic and safe options.
Why Certain Foods Are Toxic to Dogs
Dogs have different digestive systems and metabolisms compared to humans, meaning they process certain substances differently. For instance, the theobromine and caffeine found in chocolate are metabolized much slower by dogs, allowing them to build up to toxic levels in their system. Similarly, while cherry flesh is safe, the pits contain cyanide, and their hard texture can also cause digestive upset. Food toxicity can also be influenced by a dog’s size, breed, and overall health. Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about specific foods and your dog’s diet.
Common Foods Dogs Cannot Eat
Many everyday foods can be harmful or even deadly to dogs. It’s essential to be aware of these common culprits to prevent accidental poisoning.
1. Alcohol
Alcohol is highly toxic to dogs due to their smaller size. Even small amounts can lead to vomiting, breathing difficulties, coma, and even death.
2. Apple, Apricot, Cherry, and Plum Seeds/Pits
While the flesh of apples is safe, the seeds contain cyanide. The pits of apricots, cherries, peaches, and plums also contain cyanide and can cause severe health issues, including seizures and death. Additionally, these pits can cause gastrointestinal obstruction.
3. Avocado
Avocado contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The pit also poses a significant choking and gastrointestinal obstruction hazard.
4. Broccoli
In large quantities, broccoli can be harmful due to compounds called isothiocyanates. While small amounts may be acceptable, it’s generally safer to avoid it. The stalks can also be a choking hazard.
5. Caffeine and Coffee Grounds
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and soda, contains methylxanthines. These can cause fatal diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and irregular heart rhythms in dogs.
6. Fatty Cuts of Meat, Chicken, and Turkey Skin
High-fat foods like ham, chicken skin, and turkey skin can lead to acute pancreatitis, a dangerous inflammation of the pancreas. Bones, especially cooked ones, can splinter and cause internal damage or obstructions.
7. Chocolate
Chocolate is well-known for its toxicity to dogs due to theobromine and caffeine. Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate are particularly dangerous. Symptoms include hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
8. Grapes and Raisins
Even small amounts of grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs due to their tartaric acid content.
9. Macadamia Nuts, Almonds, and Pistachios
Macadamia nuts are particularly toxic, causing weakness, vomiting, and overheating. Other nuts like almonds and pistachios can be choking hazards or problematic if seasoned.
10. Milk and Dairy Products
Many dogs are lactose intolerant and can experience digestive issues like gas and diarrhea from milk and dairy. High-fat dairy products like ice cream can also contribute to pancreatitis.
11. Mushrooms
Some mushrooms contain toxins that can cause liver and kidney failure, vomiting, diarrhea, and even hallucinations. It’s best to avoid feeding your dog any type of mushroom unless specifically approved by a veterinarian.
12. Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Nutmeg can cause hallucinations and severe vomiting due to its myristicin content. Cinnamon, while not toxic, can irritate your dog’s mouth and lead to low blood sugar.
13. Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Leeks
These allium family plants contain compounds that damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. This is true for fresh, powdered, and cooked forms.
14. Salt
Excessive salt intake can disrupt a dog’s fluid balance, leading to tremors, seizures, diarrhea, and even coma.
15. Spicy Food
Spicy foods can cause vomiting, stomach ulcers, and diarrhea, leading to discomfort and potential emergency room visits.
16. Sugar-Free Gum and Candy (Xylitol)
Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener, is extremely toxic to dogs. It can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and lead to seizures and liver failure.
17. Tomatoes and Raw Potatoes
The green parts of tomato plants and unripe tomatoes contain solanine, which is toxic. Raw potatoes also contain solanine. While cooked potatoes without additives can be safe in moderation, it’s best to be cautious.
18. Tobacco
Nicotine in tobacco products is highly poisonous to dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, seizures, and potentially death.
19. Yeast and Raw Dough
Raw dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, causing severe pain and potential rupture. The yeast can also ferment, leading to alcohol toxicity.
20. Raw Meat
Raw meat can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, posing a risk of foodborne illness to both dogs and humans. Bones in raw meat can also be a choking hazard.
21. Rhubarb
Rhubarb leaves contain soluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can lead to kidney failure if consumed in sufficient quantities.
22. Star Fruit
Similar to rhubarb, star fruit also contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals, making it dangerous for dogs.
23. Flavored Water and Seltzer Water
It’s best to stick to plain, fresh water. Flavored or carbonated waters may contain added sugars, salts, or artificial ingredients that can be harmful to dogs.
13 Foods Safe for Dogs
While the list of toxic foods is concerning, many human foods are safe and even beneficial for dogs in moderation.
1. Apples, Oranges, and Bananas
The fleshy part of apples (without the core and seeds) is safe. Oranges and bananas (without the peel) are also good in small quantities.
2. Blueberries and Blackberries
Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, blueberries are a healthy treat. Blackberries are also safe in moderation.
3. Cantaloupe, Mango, Peaches, Pears, Pineapples, and Watermelons
These fruits are generally safe, but always remove seeds, pits, and rinds to prevent choking and digestive issues. Watermelon is particularly hydrating due to its high water content.
4. Carrots, Cucumber, and Celery
These low-calorie vegetables are excellent for overweight dogs. Carrots offer a satisfying crunch, celery can help with bad breath, and cucumbers are packed with vitamins and minerals.
5. Cheese
Small amounts of low-fat cheese can be given as an occasional treat if your dog is not lactose intolerant.
6. Eggs
Fully cooked eggs are a great source of protein and can help soothe an upset stomach.
7. Peanuts, Peanut Butter, and Cashews
These nuts are safe in moderation, provided they are unsalted, unseasoned, and free of xylitol. Peanut butter is a good source of protein but should be given sparingly due to its fat content.
8. Popcorn and Corn
Air-popped, unsalted, and unbuttered popcorn (without unpopped kernels) is a safe treat. Corn kernels (off the cob) are also acceptable.
9. Coconut and Honey
Small amounts of coconut (milk and oil) can be beneficial, but monitor for any stomach upset. Honey provides vitamins and minerals and is safe in moderation.
10. Shrimp and Fish
Plain, fully cooked shrimp (de-shelled and de-veined) and boneless, cooked fish like salmon and sardines are safe. Canned tuna in water is also acceptable in moderation.
11. Turkey
Plain, cooked turkey meat, stripped of skin, fat, and bones, is a healthy protein source.
12. Grains, Wheat, and Quinoa
These grains are generally safe for dogs in moderation, but monitor for any allergic reactions.
13. Green Beans
Raw, steamed, or plain canned green beans are a nutritious and safe treat. Ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
What Dogs Are Most at Risk if They Consume Toxic Foods?
While all dogs should be protected from toxic foods, certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Small breeds: Their lower body weight means a smaller amount of a toxic substance can have a more severe effect.
- Puppies: Their immune and digestive systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to toxins.
- Elderly dogs: Older dogs may have pre-existing health conditions that increase their risk.
- Dogs with pre-existing conditions: Conditions like diabetes or kidney disease can make dogs more vulnerable to food toxicity.
How To Prevent Dogs from Eating Toxic Foods
Preventing accidental ingestion is key to your dog’s safety.
- Store foods out of reach: Keep all toxic foods on high shelves or in secure cabinets.
- Avoid feeding from your plate: Stick to dog-specific treats and never feed your dog table scraps.
- Educate family and guests: Ensure everyone in the household and any visitors understand which foods are off-limits for your dog.
- Be cautious during holidays: Extra vigilance is needed during busy cooking times when food is more accessible.
If your dog does ingest something toxic, keep emergency contact information for your veterinarian and a pet poison control center readily available.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
Immediate action is crucial if you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic.
- Call your veterinarian or poison control immediately. Time is critical for effective treatment.
- Provide detailed information: Be ready to tell them the type of food eaten, the amount consumed, and the time of ingestion.
- Avoid home remedies: Do not attempt to induce vomiting or administer any treatments unless specifically directed by a veterinarian, as some methods can be harmful depending on the ingested substance.
Recognizing symptoms like listlessness, pain, vomiting, or abdominal bloating can help you act quickly.
Pets Best Can Help You Keep Your Dog Healthy
Navigating the world of human foods and pet safety can be challenging. By staying informed and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog encountering harmful substances. If you’re ever unsure about a food’s safety, always consult your veterinarian. Pet insurance, like that offered by Pets Best, can provide a financial safety net for unexpected veterinary emergencies, including those arising from accidental ingestion of toxic foods. Additionally, their 24/7 Pet Helpline offers valuable guidance from veterinary experts when you have concerns about your pet’s health.
