10 Foods Dogs Should Never Eat
Despite those pleading puppy dog eyes, it’s crucial to be mindful of the foods that are toxic or harmful to dogs. Here is a list of 10 common foods that you should never give your dog:
1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and tremors. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is to dogs.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Symptoms of grape poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy.
3. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anaemia. Symptoms of onion poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy.
4. Avocado
Avocado contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs if consumed in large amounts.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma, and even death in dogs.
6. Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause lethargy, hyperthermia, vomiting, tremors, and hyperactivity in dogs. Macadamia nuts are high in fat and, in rare cases, may cause pancreatitis in dogs if ingested. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas.
7. Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free gums and candies. It can cause a rapid insulin release in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.
8. Cooked Bones
Cooked bones can splinter and cause blockages or tears in a dog's digestive system. Cooked bones are also a choking hazard, can break teeth, and cause constipation and internal bleeding.
9. Fatty Foods
Foods high in fat can cause pancreatitis in dogs, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms of pancreatitis include vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
10. Caffeine
Caffeine can be toxic to dogs and can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and in severe cases, muscle rigidity and seizures.
It's important to keep these toxic foods away from your dog to prevent potential health issues. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has ingested something harmful.
