Dogs can eat tomatoes, but they should be fully cooked and not raw or green. Tomato plants and unripe tomatoes contain solanine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
Grapes and raisins (currants, sultanas) are toxic to pups, causing vomiting, sluggishness, and even kidney failure in extreme cases. Flavored waters and ice cream may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is also dangerous for dogs.
Chocolate
If you ask any dog owner what foods dogs cannot eat, chocolate will be on the list. However, many dogs eat a bit of chocolate without suffering any ill effects. This is because it depends on the dose.
Chocolate contains stimulants such as theobromine and caffeine. This is why it can be dangerous for dogs. Theobromine content increases with chocolate’s darkness. Theobromine poisoning can cause diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, excitement, heart problems, and in extreme cases death.
If a dog gets chocolate poisoning, the vet may induce vomiting and give them activated charcoal to absorb the toxins. They will also likely give them fluids and medications to treat specific symptoms. With rapid treatment, most dogs that eat chocolate survive. If treatment is delayed, the prognosis becomes much worse.
Meat
If dogs eat too much bacon (and similar cured meats), they may suffer from a buildup of salt, which can cause dehydration. This can lead to severe bloating, which can be dangerous or even deadly.
The seeds and pits of apricots, cherries, plums, and other fruits contain cyanide, which prevents red blood cells from carrying oxygen. This can result in vomiting, irregular and fast heartbeat, seizures, coma, and death.
Garlic, onion, leeks, and chives (part of the Allium family) are toxic to pups. Ingestion can destroy red blood cells, causing anemia.
Bread dough made with yeast is not safe for dogs. If eaten, the dough can rise inside a dog’s stomach, causing a life-threatening condition called Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV). The yeast can also trigger gastrointestinal problems, like vomiting and diarrhea.
Chicken
Many pet parents give their dogs chicken bones, but this isn’t good for them. Cooked chicken bones (or uncooked) can splinter and damage your dog’s digestive tract, leading to blockages and even ruptures that require immediate medical attention.
Similarly, raw meat is dangerous for dogs because they can contract food-borne illnesses, such as vomiting and diarrhea, that can lead to severe illness or even death. Additionally, chicken is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which are more harmful than beneficial.
Finally, some dairy products are bad for dogs, particularly blue cheese (also called Stilton or Roquefortine C) because they contain bacteria that can cause intestinal problems, such as bloating and diarrhea. Also, avocado is not good for dogs because it can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Apples
Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs. The toxins in them inhibit a dog’s kidney function and can lead to sudden kidney failure or even death. It’s important to keep any fruits and vegetables, especially those in the “Allium” family, like garlic, onion, leeks, chives, and macadamia nuts, out of paws’ reach. Ingestion of these foods can cause anemia because they contain thiosulfate, which damages red blood cells.
Likewise, the seeds and pits of persimmons, plums, cherries, and peaches are toxic to dogs because they contain cyanide. It’s also best to keep any fruits with a stone or pit out of their reach as well. They may splinter and block a pup’s digestive tract or cause internal injuries. Talk to your vet if you have any questions about what’s safe for your pooch.
Macadamia nuts
Even a very small amount of macadamia nuts can cause negative side effects for your pup. They typically start three to 12 hours after your dog eats them and can include weakness in the back legs, loss of coordination, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If you think your dog ate some macadamia nuts, call your vet or pet poison hotline right away. Your vet will likely induce your dog to vomit and give them activated charcoal to reduce the chances of more toxins being absorbed.
Nuts are also very high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis if eaten in excess. Always check ingredient lists and store all treats, including peanuts, nuts, seeds, chocolate, raisins, xylitol, and more in secure, locked containers out of your dog’s reach.
Alcohol
Ethanol, which is the main component of alcohol, can cause a host of problems for your dog. It can impair the central nervous system and cause vomiting, diarrhea, poor coordination, seizures, and even death.
Beer has a lower percentage of ethanol than other alcoholic beverages, but it can still cause issues for your dog. Schmid says a neglected beer can introduce a similar amount of ethanol to your dog as a stronger mixed drink would.
Be sure to keep all alcoholic drinks, including mixers and hand sanitizers, out of reach of your pet. Also keep xylitol, which is used as a natural sweetener in chewing gum and some toothpastes, and onions out of your dog’s diet, as they can kill them by destroying red blood cells causing anemia.
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that can cause serious problems in dogs. It causes their blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low and can lead to tremors, seizures, coma, and even liver damage. This substance is found in many common products like gum, candy, toothpaste, and some dental products. It is also used in some peanut butter, so always check the ingredients before giving your dog any food items.
If your pet ingests any foods or treats that contain xylitol, take them to a veterinarian or the emergency animal hospital immediately. Even small amounts can cause severe symptoms, such as a life-threatening drop in blood sugar and liver damage. The signs of poisoning are not immediate and can happen anywhere from a few minutes to several hours after ingestion. Additionally, make sure to check for any available Pets Coupons Code to save on pet care essentials.
What Foods Are Fatal to Dogs?
Several common household foods are toxic or at least unhealthful to dogs, including rhubarb, chocolate, xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in gum and some sugar-free desserts), avocados, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, coffee grounds, peanut butter or other nut butter, raw eggs, milk, and cheese. The fruit pits and seeds of apples, peaches, cherries, and plums contain cyanide-releasing amygdalin that can kill a dog within hours by inhibiting red blood cell production, leading to oxygen deprivation in the lungs and chest.
Other alliums like scallions, leeks, and chives can also cause adverse reactions in some dogs. These include oxidative damage to the red blood cells, leading to anemia, and can be fatal in some breeds of dogs. Onions can also trigger gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea in some dogs.
What Meat Should Dogs Not Eat?
Dogs can eat lean meat, such as turkey, but it should be cooked and with the fat removed. Poultry bones can splinter during digestion and block the intestines or cause pancreatitis. Fish is also good for dogs, providing protein and heart-healthy fats. But be careful about giving your dog salmon or sardines with bones, as they may contain excessive salt.
Some fruits and vegetables are healthy treats for dogs, including apples, bananas, and carrot sticks. However, they should be cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. Cucumber slices, green beans, and steamed zucchini are other nutritious snacks.
Bread is a safe snack for dogs, as long as it doesn’t contain any spices or raisins. Dried grapes are dangerous to dogs and can cause vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors. And don’t give your dog macadamia nuts, which can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and weakened breathing.
Why is Chicken Bad for Dogs?
While lean, appropriately cooked chicken is a healthy choice for dogs, it can be problematic if it’s fried or contains bones. Cooked chicken bones can splinter and cause choking or intestinal blockage in dogs. Additionally, fried chicken is high in calories and should be avoided if you’re looking to keep your dog at a healthy weight.
Lastly, raw chicken may harbor dangerous bacteria like salmonella, which can make humans and dogs sick. If you plan to feed your dog raw meat, consult with a vet first.
If you want to give your pup a little bit of fresh chicken, make sure it’s boiled and boneless. Also, be sure to limit it to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, and always pair it with a source of protein (like brewer’s rice or brown rice), a carbohydrate that provides energy, and vitamins and minerals. Otherwise, you should stick with a high-quality, balanced commercial food for dogs that meets AAFCO’s nutrition guidelines. Consider checking for available PETstock Promo Codes to save on your pet’s nutritional needs.
What Human Food Makes Dogs Sick?
Some foods that make humans sick — such as rhubarb, cinnamon, and chocolate — are also dangerous to dogs.
A few safe human treats can be good for your dog in moderation, but it’s important to check the ingredients first. For example, cheese is safe for most dogs to eat as long as it is plain and fully cooked (not seasoned or salted). Peanut butter, in small amounts, is an excellent source of protein and energy, but watch out for flavored peanut butter that contains the sugar substitute xylitol.
Other healthy snacks include carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bananas. To avoid choking, just make sure they are cut into small pieces.
It’s also not a good idea to feed your pet ham, bacon, or other fatty cuts of meat. These foods are high in fat and may cause pancreatitis, a serious condition that can be life-threatening for dogs. Avoid turkey bones too, as they can splinter and puncture the stomach or intestines. The genus Allium, which includes onions, leeks, and garlic, is also toxic to dogs when eaten in large quantities.
What Human Food Hurts Dogs?
As any dog owner knows, dogs can be opportunistic eaters and may end up eating food that could be dangerous or even toxic. The onions family (including leeks, scallions, and chives), garlic, and onion powder are dangerous to pets and can cause gastrointestinal irritation as well as red blood cell damage. This can lead to organ failure and death. Chocolate is also a dangerous food for dogs and can cause heart problems, seizures, and liver and kidney damage. Avocados contain persin, which is a natural dog poison that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants can also be harmful to dogs. These can trigger gastrointestinal upset and can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs, making breathing difficult.
Bananas are safe for dogs in moderation, but only if they are cooked and the skin, stem, and pit are removed.5 Peanuts and cashews are safe in small quantities but should be unsalted, unseasoned, and not roasted. Popcorn is also okay, as long as it is air-popped and not salted or buttered.
conclusion
safeguard your canine companion by avoiding these toxic foods: chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, onions/garlic, alcohol, caffeine, and certain nuts. Prioritize your pet’s well-being and choose pet-safe alternatives.