Dogs are curious pets and opportunists when it comes to what they can consume. They like tasty treats, but not all food and drink that they come across is safe for their consumption. Although some of the food that we take can be introduced to dogs and provide various health benefits, others are not okay to share with our dogs.
As a dog owner, it is your sole responsibility to take care of its health and wellbeing by avoiding the following foods.
Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine
Chocolate products contain toxic substances called methylxanthines which are stimulating substances that stop the metabolic system of a dog. This substance is also found in cacao seeds, coffee fruit, and nuts used as an extract in some sodas. When these methylxanthines are ingested by a dog they can cause diarrhea, vomiting, panting, excessive urination, thirst, tremors, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and even death. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.
Avocados
Avocados contain a substance that is called Persin in every part of the plant, including the seed and leaves. If your dog eats this, it can vomit and diarrhea.
Garlic, Chives, and Onions
These vegetables and herbs are not good for your dog as they can cause gastrointestinal irritation. The irritation that they cause can result in red blood cell damage and anemia. Although cats are more at risk, dogs also are susceptible if they consume a large enough amount.
Citrus
The citrus plant contains substantial amounts of citric acid and essential oils. If these two substances are ingested in significant amounts, they can cause nervous system depression and irritation. Small amounts such as in the fruit are not likely to cause more problems than just minor stomach upsets.
Coconut
When coconut and coconut-based products are ingested by your dog in small amounts can cause harm. When your dog eats the flesh or drinks the milk of fresh coconuts it can have stomach upset, diarrhea, or loose stool due to the oils contained in them. Coconut water has high amounts of potassium, and it should not be given to your dog.
Grapes and Raisins
It is best not to feed your dog with grapes or raisins because although the toxic substance they contain is still unknown, it can cause kidney failure.
Milk and Dairy Products
Dogs do not have significant amounts of lactase that is responsible for the breakdown of lactose in milk. For this reason, these products can cause your dog diarrhea and have other digestive upsets.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts have a toxin that can affect the muscles and nervous system of your dog. This effect can lead to increased body temperature, vomiting, swollen limbs, weakness, inability to walk, lethargy, and panting.
Nuts
Nuts such as pecans, almonds, and walnuts have high amounts of fats and oils. These fats can cause diarrhea and vomiting. They can even result in pancreatitis in the worst-case scenario.
Raw Meat, Bones, and Eggs
Raw meat and eggs can have bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella, which are harmful to both humans and pets. Uncooked eggs contain avidin which is an enzyme that decreases the absorption of biotin (B vitamin) that can cause coat and skin problems. Bones can choke or cause grave injury if they splinter and are swallowed by your dog. It may seem like a healthy and natural option - if a dog lived in the wild - but it is not suitable for domestic dogs.
Salty Snack Foods and Salt
When your dog consumes large amounts of salt, it can result in excessive thirst, urination, and sodium ion poisoning. Some of the signs that your dog might have consumed excessive amounts of salty foods include diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, depression, seizures, elevated body temperature, and even death.
Artificial Sweetener (Xylitol)
Many products have xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in baked goods, candy, gum, and toothpaste. Xylitol can cause the release of insulin in your dog, which can result in liver failure. Increased insulin levels lead to hypoglycemia (lowered sugar levels). Initial signs include lethargy, vomiting, and loss of coordination, which can progress to seizures. Liver failure can be detected within a few days.
Yeast Dough
When your dog ingests yeast dough, it can cause gas accumulation in its digestive system. This can result in stomach bloating, which can be painful. The bloating can be life-threatening if it twists. Yeast produces ethanol as a by-product, thus if your dog can become drunk if it eats it.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.