Dogs are natural scavengers, which means they’ll eat just about anything. This can be a problem for your dog if you don’t know what to avoid feeding them. Some foods can cause serious health problems or even death if not given in moderation or on occasion. We humans eat many foods that we shouldn’t feed our dogs. Here are some of the most common toxic foods to avoid feeding your dog:
1. Alcohol
Alcohol is an obvious food to avoid giving to your dog, but it’s also one of the most common. Drinking beer or wine can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs and result in serious health problems or even death. Alcoholic beverages should be kept out of reach and away from your dog at all times. Call your veterinarian immediately for treatment advice if you think your dog has consumed alcohol.
2. Chocolate & Candy
Chocolate is another common food many people give to their dogs, but it’s poisonous. Chocolate contains high levels of caffeine and theobromine, both of which are toxic to dogs. The darker the chocolate, the greater its toxicity; white chocolate is less harmful than dark chocolate or baking chocolate.
Candy, gum, and other sugary treats can be dangerous for dogs. They’re not good for their teeth and can cause pancreatitis, a painful disease affecting the pancreas. If you have children in your home, ensure that sweets and chocolates are kept out of reach from your dog.
If you want to give your dog a treat, choose one that doesn’t contain chocolate. You can always order online dog treats to ensure your furry baby isn’t left out of the party.
3. Garlic & Onions
Garlic and onions are common ingredients in many people’s cooking, but they can be toxic to dogs. Even a small amount of garlic or onion can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in your dog. If you want to treat your dog, choose one that doesn’t contain garlic or onion powder. If your dog needs a lot of treats, you can get online dog treats that are safe for them. You should also avoid onion and garlic powder foods, as these can be toxic to dogs. If you’re unsure about a particular food or treat, it’s best to avoid giving it to your dog.
4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Xylitol is a sweetener commonly used in sugar-free candies and chewing gum, but it can be toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, which can be life-threatening. If you use artificial sweeteners, ensure they don’t contain xylitol before giving them to your dog. Xylitol can also be found in some foods, such as certain berries and mushrooms. If you’re not sure if a food contains xylitol, it’s best to avoid giving it to your dog.
5. Coffee And Caffeine
Coffee is a common beverage that people enjoy, but it can be toxic to dogs. Even though humans consume coffee worldwide, it’s not good for dogs. Both coffee and caffeine are not safe for dogs. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, heart palpitations, tremors, and seizures. If you drink coffee or tea, ensure your dog doesn’t have access to it. This includes coffee grounds, which contain the same toxins as brewed coffee. The amount of caffeine in chocolate is much less than that in coffee or tea, but it’s still unsafe for dogs to consume.
Takeaway
Dogs are very loveable and simple creatures, but they can be extremely vulnerable if you don’t care for them. Knowing what your dog can and cannot eat is important and will save you money on vet bills in the long run. If you have any questions about what your dog should or shouldn’t eat, consult your veterinarian before making any changes in diet.
