Foods Toxic to Dogs
Foods Your Dog Shouldn’t Eat
Artificial Sweetener
Some sweet treats and peanut butters contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol. If your dog eats xylitol it can cause insulin release, leading to liver failure. Increased insulin can lead to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, with signs of vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination.
Avocado
Avocados contain Persin which is poisonous for dogs. If ingested by your dog, it may cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Chocolate
The caffeine and theobromine in chocolate are stimulants that are harmful for dogs. Dark chocolate contains the highest amount of these stimulants. Consumption of chocolate by a dog can lead to kidney failure.
Cooked Bones
While giving your dog a raw, uncooked bone is safe to chew on, cooked bones are not. Cooked bones can easily splinter and in large amounts can lead to more fatal circumstances such as a perforated gut.
Grapes & Raisins
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs. The toxic substance in these foods is unknown, but these fruits can cause kidney failure.
Nuts
Almonds, pecans, and walnuts contain high amounts of oil and fats. With too much of these fats, it can wreak havoc to your dog’s digestive system causing them vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to pancreatitis.
Macadamia nuts are also a nut that is toxic to dogs. These can attack your dog’s nervous system with symptoms being weakness, swollen limbs, tremors, and hyperthermia.
Onions, Garlic and Chives
All of these items within the onion family are not safe to feed your dog. Onions, garlic and chives can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage.
If any of these items are consumed, even in small amounts, your dog can be at risk. If you are unsure or suspect your pet has eaten of the foods listed above, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or your veterinarian. They will want to know what your pet ingested and how much.
Pet poisonings with human food is a serious matter. Keep your pet safe by researching a food before feeding, or simply stick to feeding approved dog foods and treats.
