Dog owners love to give their pups special little treats now and then, but it's important to know what human foods are bad for dogs so you can avoid them! Here, our Los Angeles veterinarians list the top 10 toxic foods for dogs.
10 Foods You Should Never Give Your Dog
Below are some of the most common human foods that are toxic to dogs. However, it's important to note that this is not a comprehensive list. There are plenty of other foods that are poisonous to dogs. If you have any questions about giving certain foods to dogs, contact your veterinarian.
Garlic, Onions & Chives
Garlic, onions, shallots, and chives contain substances that may cause anemia and damage red blood cells. The onion family is toxic to dogs both when raw and cooked; signs of illness may take several days to become apparent, so keep close tabs on your onions while cooking around your dogs.
Alcohol
Alcohol can cause intoxication in dogs. An incredibly small amount of alcohol is all it takes to cause vomiting, diarrhea, and, in extreme cases, damage to your dog's central nervous system.
Grapes & Raisins
Grapes and raisins may cause severe liver damage or even kidney failure in dogs. It's important not to leave grapes or treats with grapes or raisins in them where dogs can get them; your canine companion will be most grateful for your diligence
Chocolate
A sweet snack for people, chocolate is not such a sweet time for dogs. Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine which can cause kidney failure in dogs. Dark chocolate is particularly rich in theobromine
Corn On The Cob
While corn kernels themselves are not toxic to dogs, should they swallow the cob it may cause a serious blockage in your dog’s intestine.
Tobacco
You may be wondering, wait, tobacco isn't food? And you'd be right, we both know it isn't food, but your friendly dog does not! Tobacco is devastatingly toxic to dogs, so it is critical not to leave any within their reach. Symptoms of tobacco poisoning in dogs include vomiting, abnormal heart rate, tremors, and weakness.
Xylitol
The artificial sweetener called Xylitol may cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, liver failure, and possibly hypoglycemia which can lead to loss of consciousness or even death in extreme cases. Some foods that are commonly given as dog treats, like peanut butter, can contain Xylitol based on the brand, so it is important to check the nutrition label before giving anything to your dog.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can affect your dog’s muscles and nervous system resulting in weakness, swollen limbs, and panting.
Avocado
Avocados not only single-handedly lead to millennials destroying the economy, but they are also highly toxic to dogs. Avocado leaves, fruit, and seeds contain a substance called persin which may cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Cooked Bones
It might seem counter-intuitive, but you've likely always been told that all a good dog wants is a bone to chew on, but giving your pup cooked bones is a recipe for disaster. Cooked bones splinter easily and often lead to a perforation of the gut when given to dogs, an injury that is liable to prove fatal.