Most pet parents understand that providing their dogs with the proper nutrition is one of their greatest responsibilities. However, as we interact with our furry pals, we also experience those times when they beg for our food. Sometimes, we give in, particularly with the food we know is safe for a dog.
However, there are certain human foods a dog should never have. Let's discuss what these foods are so that pet parents can avoid feeding them to Fido.
Avocado
Avocado is great for humans, and we may put this fruit in many human dishes. However, avocado contains persin, which can be toxic to dogs even in small amounts. If your dog happens to gobble a piece off the floor that you've dropped, your canine companion likely won't have any side effects, but it's best to avoid avocado altogether.
Chocolate
Chocolate, coffee, and any caffeinated beverage could be dangerous to your fur baby. All caffeine contains methylxanthines, which can cause tummy upset, excessive panting, excessive urination, and abnormal heart rhythm. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous to dogs.
Grapes and Raisins
Again, a fruit can actually harm your pet. Dogs are especially prone to kidney failure after ingesting raisins or grapes. Ironically, research hasn't yet told us why grapes are dangerous for dogs, so, it's best to avoid feeding your dog grapes or raisins in any amount.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts may cause vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors in a dog.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic can be particularly dangerous to dogs, as are onions. Chives should also be considered dangerous for canines. These vegetables can cause irritation of the stomach, and possible red blood cell damage. While dogs may not experience these symptoms unless they ingest a large amount of these food items, it is best to prevent your dog from digesting any of these veggies and herbs.
Some dogs are more sensitive to garlic and onions than others. In fact, Japanese breeds - the Shiba Inu and the Akita - tend to be more sensitive to the effects of garlic and onions.
Garlic is considered to be more toxic to dogs than onions (in fact, five times more toxic).
Shallots and scallions should also be considered harmful to dogs with the same side effects as garlic and onions.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener used in a number of human food products, including baked goods and candy. Ingesting xylitol for dogs could lead to liver failure or toxicosis.
Xylitol can be found in sugar-free candy and sugarless gum as well. Cough drops may even contain xylitol. This makes keeping these types of items away from your dog's reach.
Xylitol can make your dog's blood sugar drop significantly, which could be life-threatening. Other symptoms of xylitol poisoning could include vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.
Xylitol is dangerous to dogs in even small amounts. The Pet Poison Helpline says that a ten pound dog need only ingest one piece of sugar-free gum in order to receive a toxic amount of xylitol.
Alcohol
Ingesting alcohol can have detrimental effects on your canine companion. In fact, ingesting enough alcohol could lead to organ failure and death. Even small amounts of alcohol could lead to awful side effects for your pooch. One of the ingredients that are particularly dangerous is ethanol (that's right - the same ingredient in gasoline). This ingredient can lead to vomiting, muscle tremors, high body temperature, and seizures.
Raw Bread Dough
Raw bread dough also contains ethanol. At a minimum, your dog could experience swelling of the raw bread dough, which can lead to pain and discomfort (as well as constipation when trying to pass the dough). This could also lead to tissue damage and difficulty breathing.
*Dairy - while dogs do need calcium, they shouldn't be getting it from cow's milk. Cheese can also cause stomach upset in your pup. In addition, some dairy can aggravate allergies in dogs. If you are concerned about the amount of calcium your furry pal is getting, talk with your vet about providing cooked bones or a calcium supplement that won't hurt your dog's tummy and digestive system.
*Raw Bones - Dogs can safely eat bones, right? Raw bones should never be offered to your dog. Raw bones can cause a lot of harm to your furry pal, from possibly splintering and cutting your dog's esophagus or stomach to simply getting stuck in your dog's throat.
While it's difficult at times to deny those sad, begging doggy eyes, remind yourself that you are protecting your pup when refusing to provide him with food items on this list.
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.