It may come as a surprise to many pet owners, but there are certain foods that you should never give your dog. Many of us assume that all human food is safe for our canine companions, but this is not the case. From chocolate to onions, there are a number of seemingly harmless foods that can be extremely dangerous for dogs. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 surprising foods that you should never feed your dog. Keep reading to learn more and keep your beloved pup safe.
1) Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins are both toxic to dogs. Eating either of these can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and in some cases, kidney failure. Even small amounts of grapes and raisins can be dangerous, so it is best to avoid giving them to your pup. Additionally, grapes and raisins can also cause anorexia in dogs, as well as kidney damage. Make sure to always keep these fruits away from your furry friend!
2) Onions and garlic
Both onions and garlic can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. Onions contain a compound called thiosulfate, which can cause anemia and damage the red blood cells of dogs. Garlic contains thiosulfate too, but in smaller amounts. Symptoms of toxicity may include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. To avoid potential problems, never feed your dog onions or garlic.
3) Chocolate
Chocolate is a very toxic food for dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and even death. Avoid giving chocolate to your dog at all costs. It is especially dangerous for small dogs and puppies. Ingestion of even small amounts of chocolate can be deadly. Keep chocolate and other toxic foods far away from pets. Seek veterinary attention immediately if your dog has ingested any chocolate.
4) Xylitol
This sweetener is found in many sugar-free foods and is extremely toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, leading to seizures, coma, and even death. Be sure to keep all products containing xylitol away from your pup. Another surprise toxin is avocado. While a small amount of avo on a pup’s plate might not seem like a big deal, it can lead to stomach and intestinal upset. Make sure to keep avocados away from pets.
5) Coffee, tea, and energy drinks
Caffeine can be toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, restlessness, increased heart rate, and even death. Keep these items away from your pup and opt for water or homemade dog-safe drinks instead. Even a small amount of caffeine can cause harm, so it’s best to avoid it altogether.
6) Alcohol
Dogs cannot process alcohol the same way humans can, and it is highly toxic to them. Even small amounts can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal. Keep alcoholic beverages away from your pup at all times. And don’t forget to keep an eye on any party guests as well.
7) Raw meat, bones, and fish
Raw meat, bones, and fish should not be fed to dogs as it can cause gastric issues and food-borne illnesses. Bones can also splinter and become a choking hazard. Cooked bones are safer, but still should be avoided. Even cooked bones can be dangerous, so it’s best to stay away from them altogether.
8) Dairy
Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can give your dog an upset stomach and lead to diarrhea. Lactose intolerance is common in dogs, so avoid giving your pet dairy products. Dairy can also cause an allergic reaction, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. Instead, opt for healthier, non-dairy snacks that won’t upset their stomach.
9) Moldy food
Moldy food can be toxic to dogs, so it’s important to never give your pup moldy food. Mold can contain dangerous toxins that can be harmful to your dog if ingested. It’s best to avoid feeding your pet any food that has been left out too long or has developed mold. If your pet accidentally eats moldy food, be sure to watch for signs of illness and contact a vet if needed.
10) Human medications
Humans take a variety of medications, from over-the-counter painkillers to prescription drugs. Unfortunately, these can be extremely toxic for dogs. Even common medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be poisonous for your pup, so never give them any kind of medication without consulting with a vet first.