Foods For Dogs To Avoid
To reduce the likelihood of unwanted complications, there are some foods you should avoid feeding to your furry friend...
A healthy diet is the first line of defence in protecting against dangerous diseases and illnesses. Make sure your dog’s diet doesn’t include foods that could be potentially dangerous...
1. Caffeine
Caffeine is toxic to dogs. Dogs are more sensitive to the affects of the chemical than humans are and even small amounts can become dangerous. Moderate amounts of coffee grounds, tea leaves, energy drinks or caffeinated medications can be quickly fatal to some dogs.
2. Dairy
Dogs aren’t built to process dairy products the same way humans are. Many dogs are lactose intolerant, so even though some dogs are more tolerant of dairy than others, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Dairy can cause dogs to vomit, have diarrhea, or even develop gastrointestinal diseases.
3. Chocolate
Chocolate is the most well-known food that is terrible for dogs. The chemical theobromine is toxic for dogs and in extreme cases can lead to abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, tremors or even death!
4. Alcohol
Alcohol can be extremely poisonous for dogs so it’s important that owners keep their drinks away. In extreme cases, the consumption of alcohol can lead to tremors, a coma or even death.
5. Xylitol
This ingredient is found in all sorts of candy and gum. Xylitol causes an insulin surge in your dog’s body which can lead to a drop in blood sugar and potentially even liver failure.
6. Grapes and raisins
These can be a hit or miss - although dogs can get away with eating grapes or raisins with no repercussions, on some occasions, these can lead to renal failure in dogs with their kidneys shutting down!
7. Onion, garlic & chives
These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage. Sensitivity to these ingredients seems to vary between breeds but as a whole they should be avoided.
8. Avocado
Persin is a substance found in avocados which can be toxic in high doses. If you have an avocado plant in your house or in your garden, your dog may overindulge in unripened fruit and persin. But the real danger comes from the seeds, stems and pits all of which are difficult to digest and can cause choking or gastrointestinal blockages.
9. Salt
Salt can cause a condition called sodium ion poisoning (not to mention excessive thirst or urination). Symptoms of eating too much salt might include vomiting, diarrhea, high body temperature and seizures in addition to bloat (as is the case with bacon).
10. Macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts are moderately toxic to our dogs and should be avoided. Depending on the amount ingested, the symptoms can range from mild vomiting to temporary paralysis. Although the toxic mechanism in these nuts is unknown at this time, it’s suspected to interfere with nerve function. And whilst we are specifically mentioning Macadamia nuts here, in general all nuts should be avoided!
If you suspect your dog has ingested any of these foods, see your vet as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can save lives!
