Most of us give in occasionally and share a bite of a meal or snack with our four-legged companion. Some human foods can be healthy and nutritious for your dog but there are others that can be harmful and toxic. It is important to be aware of what these foods are so you can help your pup live a happy and healthy life.
- Grapes and Raisins
These contain a compound called tartaric acid. Even in small amounts, it can lead to acute kidney injury, potentially leading to kidney failure.
- Chocolate
Chocolate is bad for dogs because it contains a chemical called theobromine. Dogs are very sensitive to this chemical and they cannot metabolize it properly. This can lead to symptoms like increased heart rate, tremors, seizures, and even death if a significant amount is ingested. The theobromine acts as a stimulant to their nervous system, causing toxic effects.
- Avocado
Avocados contain a toxin called persin, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting and heart damage. The avocado pit itself is also considered a choking hazard.
- Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute and is often found in sugar-free human foods like gum, candy, baked goods, and some peanut butters. It is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and even liver failure.
- Onions, Garlic, Chives and Leeks
There is a compound found in these called organosulphoxides. It damages oxygen-carrying red blood cells, causing hemolysis which leads to anemia. Anemia itself is a dangerous condition for our pets, but it can also lead to severe organ failure or death.
- Macadamia Nuts
Ingesting Macadamia nuts can cause a range of symptoms including muscle weakness, vomiting, tremors, lethargy, and even fever. The toxin found in macadamia nuts is currently unknown but even a small amount can trigger these reactions, making them a dangerous treat for dogs to consume.
- Caffeine
Caffeine causes heart and nervous system stimulation, which can be dangerous. This may cause them to have an increased heart rate and become hyperactive. Dogs are much more sensitive to caffeine than humans so even a small amount can be dangerous.
- Alcohol
Dogs cannot metabolize alcohol so it can be toxic in even small amounts. Alcohol can cause lethargy, respiratory depression, and dangerously low body temperature in dogs.
There are many other foods that can be harmful to our dogs. Our pups are always eager to eat the same foods we enjoy but it is important to know what is tasty to us but can be harmful to them.