Foods Dogs and Puppies Should Not Eat / Foods to Avoid

Ensuring the safety of your canine companion's meals is crucial. There are foods that are safe for humans but can be dangerous for dogs, and it's important to avoid giving them these. Let's delve into the details of foods that can be harmful to dogs below.

Avocado

Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that is harmful to dogs. While high doses can be fatal, even small amounts can cause mild symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

Mustard

Mustard, while not typically fatal in small quantities, can become toxic if consumed excessively. Interestingly, veterinarians sometimes use small amounts of mustard to induce vomiting.

Apples

Apples themselves don't contain toxins, but their seeds contain a toxic substance called amygdalin. However, a large quantity needs to be ingested and chewed to be lethal.

Artificial Sweeteners (Xylitol)

Xylitol is incredibly harmful to dogs, triggering rapid insulin production that can lead to unconsciousness within 15 to 20 minutes.

Garlic

Garlic contains thiosulfate, which can damage red blood cells and potentially be fatal to dogs. While large quantities are needed for toxicity, certain sensitive breeds should be especially cautious.

Cooked Bones

While raw bones are generally okay, cooked bones easily splinter and can cause constipation, perforation, and even death if ingested in excess.

Milk or Dairy Products

Milk and dairy products are generally not good for dogs and can cause lactose intolerance.

Yeast

Ingesting uncooked dough can be very dangerous for dogs as the fermenting yeast produces ethanol, which can be harmful.

Macadamia Nuts

Most nuts, especially macadamia nuts, are harmful to dogs. They can cause vomiting, weakness, hyperthermia, and loss of bodily function, making them one of the most toxic foods.

Nutmeg

Myristicin in nutmeg can cause rapid heart rate, hallucinations, and seizures if ingested in large quantities by dogs.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, a toxin for dogs, that can cause poisoning symptoms.

Rhubarb

Oxalates in rhubarb can cause kidney failure in dogs and lead to urinary tract crystals or kidney damage.

Onions

Similar to garlic, onions contain thiosulfate, which is toxic to dogs and should be avoided.

Iron Supplements

Vitamins containing iron can cause gastrointestinal damage in dogs.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are among the most dangerous foods, capable of causing sudden kidney failure even in small quantities. They can also cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Citrus Oils

While oranges are generally fine, medicinally used citrus oils can be toxic to dogs and can cause liver failure.

Caffeine

Small amounts of caffeine are generally okay, but if your dog swallows coffee beans or tea bags, it can significantly impact their heart rate and blood sugar levels.

Peaches

Peaches themselves aren't typically a major issue, but the seeds, containing amygdalin, can be harmful to dogs.

Leeks

Like garlic and onions, leeks contain thiosulfate.

Wild Mushrooms

While common edible mushrooms are generally safe for dogs, wild mushrooms can be toxic.

Spinach

Spinach contains oxalates, which can interfere with a dog's ability to absorb calcium and potentially cause kidney damage.

Cat Food

Cat food can cause pancreatitis and other complications in dogs, potentially leading to organ damage or death.

Unripe Tomatoes

While ripe tomatoes are generally safe, green tomatoes or those that are not fully ripe can be toxic to dogs due to a compound called solanine.

Black Walnuts

While regular walnuts are safe, black walnuts can be toxic. They are primarily used in desserts and baked goods, but dogs might find them in nature.

Chives

Like garlic, onions, and leeks, chives can cause red blood cell damage or anemia if consumed in large quantities.

Cherries

Similar to peaches, cherries contain amygdalin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause digestive upset.

Potatoes

Potatoes contain solanine, a toxic substance for dogs, that blocks acetylcholine needed for nerve stimulation and can cause problems with the dog's nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

Tobacco

While not a food, tobacco is extremely dangerous for dogs and chewing should be prevented.

Alcohol

Alcohol can cause intoxication and other health problems. It significantly impacts a dog's blood pressure and blood sugar, potentially leading to seizures and respiratory failure.

Conclusion

For the health and safety of your dog, it's best to avoid the foods mentioned above and provide them with dog-specific treats and food instead. Your pet's well-being is a top priority, and you can protect them by ensuring they only consume safe food.