Our vets in Lincoln know that loving dog owners enjoy giving their canine friends little treats now and then. However, some people foods are toxic and potentially deadly for dogs. Below is a list of foods you should never feed to your dog or puppy.
Why shouldn't I give my dog people food?
Dogs are clever animals, and sometimes they manage to get into things they shouldn't (or, we may occasionally reward them with table scraps for good behavior). When it comes to food, it's important to understand which of the foods we enjoy are actually toxic to dogs.
Your dog's body doesn't metabolize foods the way a person's does, so some things that are relatively harmless to us can be potentially make your dog very sick and result in a visit to your vet for emergency care. These foods can even trigger life-threatening symptoms for your dog.
10 Foods You Should Never Give Your Dog
The following list is just a summary of some of the most commonly toxic foods to dogs. It is not, nor is it meant to be, comprehensive. To learn more about what types of foods are toxic or poisonous to your pup, ask your vet.
Garlic, Onions & Chives
Garlic, onions, shallots, and chives contain substances that may cause anemia (which occurs when the body does produce enough hemoglobin or red blood cells) and damage red blood cells.
The onion family is toxic to dogs, whether they are raw or cooked, and signs of illness may take several days to become apparent.
Alcohol
Even in very small amounts, alcohol can cause intoxication in dogs as it does in people. Alcohol may also lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and, in extreme cases, damage to your dog's central nervous system.
Grapes & Raisins
Any cookies, cakes or other treats containing grapes or raisins should be kept well away from dogs. Grapes and raisins may cause severe liver damage or even kidney failure in dogs.
Chocolate
Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, contains a stimulant called theobromine, which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Corn on the Cob
Corn kernels themselves are not toxic to dogs; however, if your dog swallows the cob, it may cause a serious blockage in its intestine.
Tobacco
While tobacco is a substance and not a food, it's important to mention because nicotine is extremely toxic to dogs. Signs of tobacco poisoning in dogs include vomiting, abnormal heart rate, tremors and weakness.
Xylitol
The artificial sweetener called xylitol may cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, liver failure and possibly hypoglycaemia, which can lead to loss of consciousness or even death in extreme cases.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can affect your dog’s muscles and nervous system, resulting in weakness, swollen limbs and panting.
Avocado
Avocado leaves, fruit and seeds contain a fungicidal toxin called persin, which may cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Cooked Bones
It may be tempting, but never give your dog cooked bones to chew on. Cooked bones splinter easily and could lead to a perforation of the gut, which can be fatal.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.