As responsible pet owners, we want to provide our canine companions with the best possible care, and that includes understanding what foods are safe for them to eat. While it’s tempting to share our meals with our beloved dogs, many common human foods can pose serious health risks. It’s crucial to be aware of these dangers to prevent accidental poisoning and ensure your dog’s well-being. This guide details 16 everyday foods that should be strictly avoided by dogs, explaining the specific risks associated with each. For a more comprehensive understanding of household items that can harm pets, consult our 101 Things You Didn’t Know Could Harm Your Pet resource.
Harmful Foods for Dogs
It’s essential to recognize that certain foods, even in small quantities, can be toxic to dogs. This list covers some of the most common culprits:
- Chocolate
- Gum and candy
- Xylitol
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Macadamia nuts
- Avocados
- Onions
- Garlic
- Salt
- Tea leaves
- Raw yeast dough
- Spoiled foods
- Fatty foods
- Coffee
- Alcohol
1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains the stimulants theobromine and caffeine, which can cause a dog’s heart rate to accelerate, blood pressure to rise, and in severe cases, lead to seizures or death. Darker chocolates, such as baker’s chocolate and semi-sweet varieties, are particularly dangerous due to their higher concentration of these compounds. Smaller dogs are also more susceptible to the effects of even a small amount of chocolate compared to larger breeds. For a visual guide on safe and unsafe chocolate consumption, refer to our Dogs and Chocolate Infographic.
2. Gum and Candy
Swallowing gum can lead to choking or intestinal blockages. Similarly, chewy candies like caramel or taffy present a choking hazard and can cause digestive issues. Hard candies pose a risk of fracturing a dog’s teeth. If gum or candy contains Xylitol, the risks are significantly amplified.
3. Xylitol
Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products including gum, candy, desserts, yogurt, and peanut butter, is highly toxic to dogs. Ingestion can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), seizures, and liver failure. Always check ingredient labels before sharing any food item with your dog.
4. Grapes
Grapes, in both fresh and dried forms, are highly toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure. Even a small amount can trigger a severe reaction. It’s crucial to keep grapes and fruit salads out of your dog’s reach. If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately.
5. Raisins
As dried grapes, raisins carry the same toxic properties and can cause severe kidney complications in dogs. They are often found in baked goods and other treats, making them a hidden danger.
6. Macadamia Nuts
These nuts can cause vomiting, hyperthermia, weakness, and tremors in dogs. While the exact toxic component is unknown, they should be avoided entirely.
7. Avocados
Avocado fruits, leaves, and pits contain a toxin called persin, which can be harmful to dogs, potentially causing vomiting and diarrhea. It’s best to keep guacamole and other avocado-based dishes away from your pet.
8. Onions
Onions, including onion powder and cooked onions, contain compounds that damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms can include weakness, lethargy, and pale gums.
9. Garlic
Similar to onions, garlic can also damage red blood cells and cause anemia in dogs. Garlic is more potent than onions, so even small amounts can be dangerous.
10. Salt
Excessive salt intake from snacks like chips, pretzels, and popcorn can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also damage the kidneys.
11. Tea Leaves
The caffeine in tea leaves can be harmful to dogs, causing similar effects to those seen with chocolate consumption. Ensure tea bags and brewed tea are kept away from your dog.
12. Raw Yeast Dough
Raw yeast dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, causing painful bloating and gas. Furthermore, the fermentation process produces alcohol, which can lead to alcohol poisoning. This condition can be life-threatening if the stomach twists.
13. Spoiled Foods
Moldy or spoiled foods found in the trash can contain mycotoxins that cause serious health issues, including muscle tremors and severe gastrointestinal distress. Always dispose of old food securely.
14. Fatty Foods
High-fat foods such as bacon, hot dogs, and fried chicken can cause digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. Certain breeds may be more susceptible to pancreatitis.
15. Coffee
Caffeine in coffee, including brewed coffee, grounds, and beans, is toxic to dogs and can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.
16. Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages and foods containing alcohol can severely affect a dog’s central nervous system, leading to intoxication, coma, or even death. Dogs are more sensitive to alcohol than humans, and even small amounts can be dangerous.
Dogs at Risk
All dogs, regardless of breed, size, or age, are at risk of ingesting harmful substances. However, dogs with a naturally curious disposition or a tendency to eat non-food items may require closer supervision.
What to Do in Case of Poisoning
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic food or substance, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately. Stay calm and do not attempt to treat your dog without professional guidance, as this could cause further harm. Veterinary treatment may include diagnostic tests, induced vomiting, IV fluids, or medications, and in severe cases, hospitalization. Pet health insurance can help manage the costs associated with emergency veterinary care. Get a quote for your dog today to ensure peace of mind.
