7 Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs
As dog owners we love sharing things with our pets, including our food. But some human foods that seem completely harmless can be extremely dangerous or even fatal to dogs. Here are 7 human foods you should never feed your dog.
1. Chocolate Chocolate is one of the most well-known dangerous foods for dogs. It contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which dogs cannot metabolize properly. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and in severe cases death. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous.
2. Grapes and Raisins Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Even a small amount can make a dog seriously ill. Signs of grape toxicity include vomiting, lethargy, and decreased urination. If your dog eats grapes or raisins contact your vet immediately.
3. Onions and Garlic Onions and garlic in any form — raw, cooked, or powdered — are toxic to dogs. They damage red blood cells and can cause anemia. Symptoms include weakness, reduced appetite, and pale gums.
4. Xylitol Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, and baked goods. It causes a rapid release of insulin in dogs leading to dangerously low blood sugar. It can also cause liver failure. Always check labels before giving your dog any human food product.
5. Macadamia Nuts Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and fever. Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours of eating them.
6. Alcohol Alcohol affects dogs much more severely than it affects humans. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, disorientation, breathing difficulties, and in serious cases coma or death. Never give your dog alcohol in any form.
7. Avocado Avocado contains persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The large pit is also a serious choking hazard. Keep avocados well out of reach of your dog.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic: Contact your vet or an emergency animal poison helpline immediately. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. The faster you act the better the outcome for your dog.
Keeping your dog safe means being aware of what's in your home. When in doubt, stick to dog-approved treats and leave the human food for yourself.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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