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!