Ever wondered why you can’t feed your dog cooked bones or the leftovers from that recipe that used nutmeg? In this blog we’ll not only provide you with a list of foods that are actually dangerous. We’re going to shed some light on the hysteria about foods that are thought to be toxic. But most importantly we will give you the evidence-based reason as to why…
- Avocado: While avocados are a beloved superfood for humans, they contain a substance called persin, which is toxic to dogs. However, the flesh of the avocado is absolutely safe for dogs in small amounts. It's the skin and seed that contain persin and also pose a choking hazard and should be avoided.
- Chocolate: Most dog owners are aware that chocolate is harmful to dogs, but understanding why is essential. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and even death in dogs. The darker the chocolate, the higher the levels of these toxic compounds. Check out our blog 'The sweet truth: Why chocolate is bad for dogs and safe alternatives.' to find out more.
- Onions: Onions, belong to the Allium family and contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to anemia. Symptoms may include weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Even small amounts of onion can be toxic, so it's best to avoid them altogether.
- Xylitol: Thisgar substitute is often found in sugar-free gum, candies, and peanut butter. Xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms include vomiting, weakness, tremors, seizures, and even liver failure. Always check the ingredient list before sharing peanut butter with your pup.
- Nutmeg: While nutmeg is a common spice used in cooking and baking, it contains a compound called myristicin, which can be toxic to dogs. Ingesting nutmeg can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and hallucinations. It's best to keep nutmeg out of your dog's reach.
Not all spices are bad, check out our blog 'Pawsitively Healthy: 5 Herbs and Spices Beneficial for Your Dog's Health.' to learn more
- Grapes & Raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, although the exact toxic component is unknown. Even a small amount can be dangerous, so it's best to avoid giving your dog any grapes or raisins, including those found in baked goods or trail mix.
- Salt: While dogs need some salt in their diet, excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning, or hypernatremia. This can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death. Avoid feeding your dog salty snacks or foods high in sodium.
- Weight-Bearing Raw Bones: While bones are often touted as a natural chew toy for dogs, weight-bearing bones such as marrow bones can be too hard and dense, risking tooth fractures or digestive issues if swallowed in large pieces. Instead, opt for softer bones like raw necks, tails, ribs, briskets, or fish frames.
Always remember to supervise your dog with any bones or new foods to ensure they are chewing and not gulping to avoid bloat and intestinal blockages.
- Snack & Fast Food: While the occasional bite of a chicken nugget or potato chip might seem harmless, these foods are often high in salt, fat, and other additives that can be harmful to your dog's health. Stick to dog-safe treats or fresh fruits and vegetables as occasional snacks.
- Other Foods to Avoid: Cooked bones, rawhide, gravy/stocks (especially those containing onion), macadamia nuts, and smoked/deli meats should also be avoided due to the risk of choking hazards, intestinal blockages, or ingredients from the above list.
Understanding why certain foods are harmful to dogs is crucial for responsible pet ownership. By avoiding these foods, you can help ensure their long-term health and well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian and/or canine nutritionist if you have any questions or concerns about your dog's diet or health.