Foods that are safe and healthy for humans can be harmful to dogs. Some human food contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs, while others can cause stomach upset or other types of health problems.
Here is a list of 10 foods that can make your dog sick.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Theobromine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and the heart of dogs.
Depending on the type and amount of chocolate ingested, your dog can experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures, and even death. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain more theobromine than milk chocolate and white chocolate. If you suspect that your dog has eaten any kind of chocolate, contact your vet immediately.
2. Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact mechanism is unknown, but even a small amount of grapes or raisins can be toxic to dogs.
Some of the symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and dehydration. If you think your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
3. Onions and garlic
Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage the red blood cells of dogs, leading to anemia. Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning may not be noticeable immediately, but can include weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and pale gums.
If you suspect your dog has eaten onions or garlic, contact your vet right away.
4. Avocado
Avocado contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Avocado pits can also pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage. While avocado flesh is not toxic to dogs, it is best to avoid feeding it to them.
5. Macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause lethargy, vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors in dogs. The exact mechanism is unknown, but even small amounts of macadamia nuts can be toxic to dogs.
If you think your dog has ingested macadamia nuts, seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible.
6. Alcohol
Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, and even death in dogs. Dogs are much smaller than humans and even a small amount of alcohol can be toxic to them.
Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs can develop rapidly, so it is important to seek veterinary assistance immediately if you suspect your dog has ingested alcohol.
7. Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener that is commonly found in sugar-free gum and candy, as well as some baked goods, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Xylitol can cause a rapid insulin release in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and even coma. If you suspect your dog has ingested any product containing xylitol, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
8. Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and even death in dogs.
Chocolate and some types of tea and coffee contain caffeine, so it is important to keep these foods and drinks away from your dog.
9. Bones
Bones may seem like a natural and healthy treat for dogs, but they can actually be dangerous. Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious injuries in a dog’s mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
Bones can also cause intestinal blockages, which may require emergency surgery. Instead of giving your dog bones, try a safe alternative such as a chew toy.
10. Raw meat and eggs
Raw meat and eggs can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning in dogs. Raw meat and eggs also pose a risk of transmitting parasites such as tapeworms and roundworms.
To prevent food poisoning and other health problems, it is best to always cook meat and eggs before feeding them to your dog.