You always want to do what’s best for your dog, and that often means watching what they eat. While many foods are perfectly fine for dogs to get into, certain foods can significantly threaten the health of your furry friend. Here are five foods to make sure your dog never eats to help you stay ahead of any of these risks.
Chocolate
Most people already know not to give dog chocolate. The combination of theobromine and caffeine is extremely toxic to them, with dark or baking chocolate posing a more significant risk due to their higher concentrations. Even small amounts can lead to symptoms like vomiting, rapid heart rate, and seizures. If your dog eats some chocolate, it’s a good idea to immediately consult a veterinarian.
Grapes and Raisins
While grapes and raisins are a sweet and simple snack for us, they pose a significant risk for dogs. The specific cause of this toxicity isn’t fully apparent, but these foods often lead to kidney problems in dogs. If you think your dog ate something it shouldn’t have, watch out for symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and reduced urination. If you catch these signs, please consult a vet.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are delicious additions to most human foods but can damage your dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. While most people can keep their dog from eating raw onions or garlic, even trace amounts of these powdered ingredients on table scraps can lead to harmful side effects over time.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that’s common in a lot of sugar-free foods. This sweetener is very dangerous for dogs and can significantly lower their blood pressure to dangerous levels. One of the biggest ways that dogs get it into their system is through one of their favorite treats: peanut butter. Make sure any peanut butter or baked goods you give to your dog doesn’t contain xylitol. A simple label check can help you keep this stuff away from your pet.
Avocado
Another food to make sure your dog never eats is avocado. These fruits contain a substance called persin. This can lead to vomiting and other digestive issues that you want to avoid. You may also want to check if any scraps or snacks you give your dog contain avocado oil, which is a common cooking option for some people.
Keeping your dog healthy starts with awareness. Make sure you keep all these foods out of reach of your dog, even if they’re normal mainstays in your kitchen. Always consult your veterinarian if you think your dog has eaten something unsafe for them. Knowing what to avoid can help you make sure your dog has a long, healthy life.
