As a devoted dog owner, you want nothing more than to ensure your furry companion lives a healthy, happy life. Part of that commitment involves understanding what foods are safe for them and, crucially, What Meat Should I Not Feed My Dog? While many human foods can be a delightful treat, some are dangerous, even toxic, and can lead to serious health issues or worse. Pet poisonings are a significant concern, with hundreds of thousands occurring annually in the United States alone. Many of these incidents are food-related, highlighting the critical need for pet owners to be well-informed. This guide, brought to you by Dog Care Story, will serve as your essential resource, focusing specifically on meat products and other common household foods to keep your beloved canine safe and thriving.
Canine digestion and metabolism differ significantly from ours, meaning substances our bodies handle easily can be problematic for dogs. For instance, dogs process theobromine and caffeine in chocolate much slower, allowing these compounds to accumulate rapidly and potentially become fatal. Similarly, while you might enjoy a piece of lean ham, its high-fat content can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive system. Understanding these differences is key to preventing accidental harm. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts about a food your dog might have consumed or if you have questions about foods your dog can and cannot eat. To keep your dog safe and healthy, it’s also important to know what can shih tzu not eat and to understand dietary restrictions that might be necessary.
Understanding Canine Digestion: Why Some Meats Are Harmful
Dogs’ bodies are not equipped to handle certain compounds and fats in the same way humans are. This fundamental difference in metabolic processes is why some seemingly innocuous human foods, including various meat products, can be profoundly toxic or lead to severe health complications for your canine companion. For example, the high-fat content often found in certain cuts of meat can be exceptionally difficult for a dog’s pancreas to process, potentially leading to a life-threatening inflammatory condition.
The varying sensitivities among dogs—influenced by factors like size, breed, and existing health conditions—further complicate matters. What might cause mild gastrointestinal upset in a large, healthy dog could be fatal for a small breed puppy or an older dog with a pre-existing condition. This variability underscores the importance of a strict approach to preventing the ingestion of harmful foods and being prepared for emergencies. Always remember that when in doubt about any food, especially meat, it’s safest to err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian.
What Meat Should I Not Feed My Dog? A Detailed List of Dangerous Proteins
When considering “what meat should I not feed my dog,” several categories immediately come to mind due to their inherent risks, either from their composition or preparation. It’s crucial to understand these dangers to protect your pet.
Fatty Cuts of Meat (Chicken and Turkey Skin, Ham, Bacon)
High-fat meats, including chicken and turkey skin, ham, bacon, and other fatty trimmings, are particularly hazardous for dogs. The excessive fat content in these items can trigger acute pancreatitis, a severe inflammation of the pancreas that can be life-threatening and lead to complex complications. Even a small piece of fatty meat can initiate this painful condition in susceptible dogs. It’s much safer to discard these fatty scraps than to offer them as a “treat.”
Fatty cuts of meat, ham, and chicken skin
This condition involves the pancreas becoming inflamed and potentially beginning to digest itself, causing intense pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. The recovery from pancreatitis can be prolonged and expensive, often requiring hospitalization and specialized dietary management. Therefore, it is strongly advised to keep all such fatty meat products out of your dog’s reach to prevent this serious illness.
Raw or Undercooked Meat
Despite the popular trend of raw feeding, never feed your dog raw or undercooked meat. Raw meat can harbor dangerous bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in dogs, similar to humans. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lethargy. Puppies, elderly dogs, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to these bacterial infections, which can sometimes be fatal.
Furthermore, raw meat often contains bones, which pose a significant choking hazard and can splinter, causing internal damage. These bone fragments can obstruct the bowels or even puncture the stomach or intestines, leading to a fatal abdominal infection. Even if a dog doesn’t choke, the sharp edges of splintered bones can cause severe internal injuries requiring emergency surgery. The risks associated with raw or undercooked meat far outweigh any perceived benefits, making cooked, boneless, lean proteins the only safe option.
Bones (Cooked or Raw)
While not strictly “meat,” bones are often associated with meat consumption and warrant a strong warning. Both cooked and raw bones are dangerous for dogs. Cooked bones become brittle and can splinter easily, leading to the same internal injuries mentioned above—choking, obstructions, or punctures of the digestive tract. Raw bones, while not brittle, can also splinter or cause obstructions. Additionally, raw bones can carry the same bacterial contamination risks as raw meat. Always remove bones from any meat you plan to share with your dog.
Beyond Meat: Other Common Foods Dogs Should Avoid
While the focus here is on meats, it’s equally important to be aware of other common household foods that are highly toxic to dogs. Many of these items are frequently found in our kitchens and can pose a severe threat if ingested. Being vigilant about all potential hazards is crucial for your dog’s safety.
Chocolate and Caffeine
Chocolate is notoriously toxic to dogs due to its content of theobromine and caffeine, both methylxanthines. Dogs metabolize these substances much slower than humans, allowing them to build up to dangerous levels. The darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of theobromine, making baker’s chocolate and dark chocolate the most dangerous. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity include hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, abnormal heart rhythm, and seizures. Even small amounts can be problematic, so always call your vet immediately if your dog ingests any chocolate.
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some medications, contains methylxanthines that can cause similar, potentially fatal, symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and irregular heartbeat. Coffee grounds are particularly concentrated and dangerous.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, capable of causing acute kidney failure. The exact toxic compound is tartaric acid, but even a few grapes or raisins can be enough to cause severe problems. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and changes in urination (either increased or decreased, or not passing urine at all). If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount of grapes or raisins, immediate veterinary attention is critical.
Xylitol (Artificial Sweeteners)
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products like gum, candy, baked goods, toothpaste, and some peanut butters. In dogs, xylitol causes a rapid and severe drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), leading to weakness, loss of coordination, and seizures. It can also cause liver failure. Even a small amount, such as the xylitol in five pieces of gum, can be fatal for a 65-pound dog. Always check labels for xylitol before sharing any human food or product with your dog.
Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Leeks
All members of the Allium family—onions, garlic, chives, and leeks—are toxic to dogs. They contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and lead to hemolytic anemia. Symptoms include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, and dark urine. Garlic is generally considered more potent than onions. These ingredients are often found in powders and prepared foods, so scrutinize labels carefully. Certain Japanese breeds, like Akitas and Shiba Inus, are especially sensitive.
Avocado
Avocados are not a good choice for dogs. They contain a fungicidal toxin called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in some animals. While the effect on dogs is debated and varies, some cases of myocardial damage have been reported. More critically, the large pit poses a significant choking hazard and can cause an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract if swallowed whole. It’s best to avoid this fruit entirely.
Nuts (Macadamia, Almonds, Pistachios)
While not all nuts are strictly toxic, many pose risks. Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs, causing weakness, overheating, vomiting, tremors, and even paralysis. As few as six nuts can cause severe poisoning in a small dog. Other nuts like almonds and pistachios are not necessarily toxic but are high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis, and also pose choking hazards. Flavored or spiced nuts can also contain other harmful ingredients like salt or garlic powder. For more information on what fruits and nuts to avoid, you can check out resources like what fruits can shih tzus not eat.
Fruit Pits and Seeds
The fleshy parts of many fruits are safe, but their pits and seeds often contain cyanide, which is toxic. This applies to apples (seeds and core), apricots, cherries, peaches, and plums (pits). In large enough quantities, cyanide can cause serious issues including vomiting, irregular heartbeat, seizures, coma, and death due to its interference with oxygen transport in red blood cells. Additionally, pits can be choking hazards and cause internal obstructions.
Apple, apricot, cherry, and plum seeds and pits
Yeast and Raw Dough
Yeast and raw dough are particularly dangerous. Raw dough can expand in your dog’s stomach, causing severe pain, bloating, and potentially life-threatening gastric dilation-volvulus (bloat) or rupture of the stomach. Furthermore, the yeast and sugar in raw dough ferment, producing alcohol, which can lead to alcohol toxicity. Symptoms of alcohol toxicity are similar to those in humans and can quickly become fatal, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.
Alcohol
Even small amounts of alcohol can be deadly for dogs. Their smaller size and different metabolism mean alcohol can have a much more potent and rapid effect. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs mirror human symptoms: vomiting, disorientation, breathing problems, coma, and even death. Keep all alcoholic beverages and foods containing alcohol (like raw dough) completely out of your dog’s reach.
Salt and Spicy Foods
Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs, causing tremors, seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, and potentially a coma. This includes salty snacks like chips, pretzels, and even rock salt used for de-icing. Spicy foods can cause significant gastrointestinal upset, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach ulcers, which can be very painful for your dog and expensive to treat. It’s always best to keep your dog away from both excessively salty and spicy human foods.
Rhubarb and Star Fruit
Rhubarb leaves and star fruit contain soluble calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested in large enough quantities, these crystals can bind with calcium in the dog’s body, leading to a dangerous drop in calcium levels and potentially causing renal (kidney) failure. Symptoms can include tremors, weakness, drooling, bloody urine, and changes in thirst and urination. These fruits should be strictly avoided.
Mushrooms
While some store-bought mushrooms might be harmless, it’s best to avoid feeding any mushrooms to your dog due to the vast number of toxic varieties. Wild mushrooms are particularly dangerous, containing various toxins that can cause kidney and liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, hallucinations, and red blood cell damage. Unless you are absolutely certain it’s a safe species, do not give your dog mushrooms.
Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that can cause hallucinations, disorientation, and severe vomiting in dogs, especially in small breeds or at high doses. Cinnamon, while not strictly toxic, can cause irritation to a dog’s mouth and digestive tract. Large amounts can also lead to low blood sugar, which can have serious health implications for your pup.
Raw Potatoes and Green Parts of Tomatoes
Both potatoes and tomatoes have specific parts that are toxic. Raw potatoes contain solanine, a toxic compound. Cooked potatoes (baked or boiled, plain) are generally safe in small amounts. Similarly, ripe red tomatoes are usually fine, but the green parts of the tomato plant and unripe green tomatoes contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs.
Tobacco
Tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, e-liquids, and nicotine patches, are highly dangerous due to their nicotine content. Nicotine poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, agitation, abnormal heart rate, wobbliness, muscle weakness, seizures, and tremors. Severe exposure can lead to blue gums, coma, and be fatal. Dogs are curious and may ingest discarded tobacco products, so be vigilant, especially during walks.
Flavored and Seltzer Water
It’s always best to give your dog fresh, plain water. Flavored and seltzer waters can contain added ingredients like sugars, artificial sweeteners (including xylitol), or salts that are dangerous for dogs. Plain seltzer water might cause gas and bloating, even if otherwise safe in small amounts. Stick to clear, unflavored water for your pup’s hydration.
Milk and High-Fat Dairy Products
While not always immediately toxic, many dogs are lactose intolerant and can experience diarrhea and gas from cow’s milk and dairy products. High-fat dairy items like ice cream are particularly bad due to their high sugar and fat content, which can lead to pancreatitis. Small amounts of low-fat cheese might be acceptable for some dogs, but moderation is key, and it’s best to avoid if your dog shows any signs of intolerance. For more guidance, especially if your dog is feeling unwell, consider resources like what can i feed my dog when sick.
Safe Meats and Other Foods Your Dog Can Enjoy (In Moderation)
Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious and safe human foods, including certain lean meats, that your dog can enjoy as occasional treats. Providing these in moderation can supplement their diet and offer enjoyable variety without risk. Knowing what can i give my shih tzu to eat is just as important as knowing what to avoid.
Lean, Cooked Meats
- Plain Cooked Turkey: Skinless, boneless, unseasoned cooked turkey meat is an excellent source of protein. Ensure all fat and bones are removed.
- Plain Cooked Chicken: Similar to turkey, lean, cooked chicken (without skin or bones) is a healthy and safe protein source.
- Fish (Salmon, Sardines): Plain, fully cooked, and boneless fish like salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid any seasoned or salted varieties, and limit frequency to twice a week to avoid mercury accumulation. Canned tuna (packed in water, not oil, plain) is also acceptable in moderation.
- Shrimp: Plain, fully cooked shrimp (shell, head, tail, and legs removed) is a good treat. Again, avoid seasoned or buttered varieties.
Shrimp and fish
Other Safe Foods
- Apples (no core/seeds), Bananas (no peel), Oranges (small amounts): Fruit flesh is generally safe.
- Blueberries and Blackberries: Rich in antioxidants and fiber.
- Cantaloupe, Mangoes, Peaches (no pit), Pears (no core/seeds), Pineapples (no core/skin), Watermelon (no rind/seeds): Various fruits offer vitamins and hydration.
- Carrots, Cucumbers, Celery, Green Beans: Low-calorie, crunchy vegetables.
- Cooked Eggs: A great source of protein, especially scrambled for an upset stomach.
- Peanuts (unsalted, unflavored), Peanut Butter (xylitol-free, unsalted), Cashews (unsalted, unflavored): High in protein but also fat, so offer in small quantities.
- Air-Popped Popcorn (plain), Cooked Corn (off the cob, plain): Occasional treats.
- Coconut (flesh, milk, oil in small amounts, no water or shell), Honey (in moderation): Can offer some health benefits but watch for upset stomachs.
- Grains, Wheat, Quinoa: In small amounts, can be fine, but watch for allergies.
What Dogs Are Most at Risk if They Consume Toxic Foods?
While preventing any dog from ingesting toxic foods is paramount, certain canine demographics face elevated risks due to their physiological characteristics or health status. Understanding these vulnerabilities can help you be even more cautious.
- Small Breeds vs. Large Breeds: Smaller dogs are generally more susceptible to toxins because their lower body weight means a smaller amount of a harmful substance can reach toxic concentrations more quickly. For instance, the same amount of chocolate that might cause mild symptoms in a large dog could be lethal to a Chihuahua.
- Puppies: Young dogs have less developed digestive and immune systems. This makes them more vulnerable to the effects of certain substances, including raw food which can carry harmful bacteria. Their curious nature also makes them more prone to exploring and ingesting inappropriate items.
- Elderly Dogs: Older dogs may have compromised organ function or other underlying health conditions that make them less resilient to toxins. Their bodies may not process and eliminate harmful substances as efficiently as younger, healthier dogs.
- Dogs with Pre-existing Conditions: Dogs suffering from chronic illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease are at a significantly higher risk. Their existing health issues can be exacerbated by toxic food ingestion, making recovery more challenging and the outcome potentially more severe.
How To Prevent Dogs from Eating Toxic Foods
Accidents happen, but proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of your beloved pup encountering unsafe human food. Vigilance and education are your best tools in preventing accidental ingestion.
1. Store Foods Out of Reach
The simplest and most effective prevention method is to ensure that all toxic foods, including dangerous meats, are stored where your dog cannot access them. This means keeping items on high shelves, locked away in secure cabinets, or in pet-proof containers. Never leave food unattended on countertops or low tables, especially during meal preparation or parties.
2. Avoid Feeding Dogs from Your Plate
Resist the urge to feed your dog scraps directly from your plate or while you are cooking in the kitchen. This habit teaches your dog to beg and associate human food with treats, making them more likely to seek out and potentially ingest unsafe items when you’re not looking. It’s safest to only provide treats specifically formulated for dogs.
3. Educate Family Members and Guests
Ensure everyone in your household, including children, and any guests are aware of the dangers of feeding human food to your dog. Clearly communicate which foods are off-limits and emphasize that no matter how much your dog begs, they should not sneak any food. This consistent message is crucial for reinforcing boundaries.
4. Be Careful During Holidays and Gatherings
Holidays and social gatherings often involve an abundance of food and a relaxed atmosphere, which can increase the risk of accidental ingestion. Be extra cautious during these times. Keep food covered and out of reach, and remind guests about your dog’s dietary restrictions. Have a plan for managing your dog’s access to areas where food is present.
If your preventative measures fail and your dog eats something toxic, being prepared can make all the difference. Keep emergency contact information readily available for your veterinarian and a 24/7 animal poison control center.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic food, immediate action is crucial. The speed of response can significantly impact the outcome, often leading to more successful treatments and shorter hospitalization times.
First, familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of food toxicity, as these can vary depending on the substance ingested. Look for signs such as listlessness, distress, pain, vomiting, diarrhea (which may be bloody), loss of appetite, excessive drooling, tremors, seizures, or changes in behavior. In some cases, a dog’s stomach may become bloated, hard, and painful to the touch, which can be a sign of a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.
If you observe any of these symptoms or suspect ingestion, do the following:
- Call your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately. Do not delay. Timing is vital for effective treatment.
- Be ready with important information. Provide details such as the type of food eaten, the estimated amount consumed, and the time of ingestion. If possible, have the packaging of the food or product available.
- Avoid home remedies unless advised by your veterinarian. Inducing vomiting, for example, can be harmful in certain situations, depending on the type of toxin and your dog’s condition. Always follow professional guidance.
Dog Care Story Helps You Keep Your Dog Healthy
Navigating the world of safe and unsafe foods, including what meat should I not feed my dog, can be challenging. From common household toxins to specific dangerous foods, it requires constant vigilance. Dogs are often curious and lack the discernment to differentiate between safe and harmful items. However, by adhering to this guide and remaining proactive, you can significantly protect your dog from foods that could cause them harm.
The good news is that there are numerous safe and healthy foods that your dog can enjoy. Discover which options from our list your dog loves, and offer them as healthy, well-deserved treats. When in doubt about any food, always consult your veterinarian for expert advice tailored to your pet’s specific needs. For pet owners concerned about unexpected encounters with toxins or illnesses, pet insurance can offer invaluable peace of mind. Many plans, like those offered by Pets Best, can be customized to your pet’s unique needs and include access to a 24/7 Pet Helpline for immediate veterinary advice, which can be a significant advantage when you’re worried about what your pet may have eaten.
Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
References
- “Top 10 dog poisons,” Hilary Parker (5/2023), WebMD.
- “What happens if a dog eats chocolate?” (10/2023), Colorado State University.
- “Fruits and vegetables dogs can or can’t eat,” (3/2024), American Kennel Club.
- “What to do if your dog drinks alcohol,” Jerry Klein (7/2023), American Kennel Club.
- “Can dogs eat apples?” Hector Joy (12/2022), PetMD.
- “Can dogs eat plums?” Katie Koschalk (7/2023), Chewy.
- “Avocado (Persea spp) Toxicosis in Animals,” Cristine Hayes (9/2024), Merck Veterinary Manual.
- “People foods to avoid feeding your pets,” (n.d.), ASPCA.
- “People foods dogs can and can’t eat,” (3/2024), American Kennel Club.
- “Can dogs eat nuts?” Amanda Ardente (1/2023), PetMD.
- “Can dogs drink milk?” Sandra C. Mitchell (1/2024), PetMD.
- “Can dogs have nutmeg?” Barri J. Morrison (11/2023), PetMD.
- “Onion, garlic, chive, and leek poisoning in dogs,” Renee Schmid et al. (2024), VCA Animal Hospitals.
- “Can dogs eat tomatoes?” Anna Burke (10/2024), American Kennel Club.
- “Can dogs eat potatoes?” Katherine Ripley (11/2023), American Kennel Club.
- “What to do if your dog eats a cigarette butt,” (6/2023), American Kennel Club.
- “Dough & dogs: Why it’s bad and what you can do,” Lisa Goldstein (7/2024), Preventive Vet.
- “Rhubarb,” (n.d.), Pet Poison Helpline.
- “Can dogs drink carbonated water?” Heather Logue (n.d.), Rover.
- “What fruits can dogs eat?” Ellen Malmanger (2/2024), PetMD.
- “Can dogs have green beans?” Anna Burke (8/2022), American Kennel Club.
- “About pet food safety,” (4/2024), CDC.
