Our vets in Mamaroneck understand that loving dog owners love to give their canine companions little treats every so often, but some foods we enjoy are toxic and potentially deadly for dogs. Here is a list of foods you should never feed to your dog or puppy.
Why shouldn’t I give my dog human food?
Dogs are curious, clever animals and sometimes their noses lead them to things that may be dangerous or even toxic to their bodies. When it comes to food, it’s important to note which of the foods we enjoy are actually toxic to dogs, and can cause a veterinary emergency.
Your dog’s body does not metabolize foods the way yours does. This is why some food items that are relatively harmless to us can be potentially deadly for dogs.
10 Foods You Should Never Give Your Dog
Keep in mind that this list is not comprehensive — it is just a summary of some of the most common foods that are toxic for dogs. To learn more about which foods are toxic or poisonous dogs, talk to your Mamaroneck vet.
Alcohol
Alcohol can cause intoxication in dogs even in very small amounts. It may also lead to diarrhea, vomiting and in extreme cases, damage to your dog’s central nervous system.
Tobacco
While tobacco is not a food, this one is important to mention since nicotine is extremely toxic to dogs. Signs of tobacco poisoning in dogs include tremors, abnormal heart rate, weakness and vomiting.
Grapes & Raisins
Cakes, cookies or other treats containing raisins or grapes should be kept out of dogs’ reach. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure or severe liver damage in dogs.
Avocado
Avocado seeds, leaves and fruit contain persin, a substance that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Garlic, Chives & Onions
Garlic, chives, shallots and onions contain substances that can cause anemia and damage to red blood cells. The onion family are toxic to dogs whether raw or cooked. Signs of illness may take several days to become apparent.
Xylitol
The artificial sweetener called Xylitol may cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, liver failure and possibly hypoglycaemia which can lead to loss of consciousness or even death in extreme cases.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can affect your dog’s muscles and nervous system resulting in weakness, swollen limbs and panting.
Cooked Bones
It may be tempting but never give your dog cooked bones to chew on. Cooked bones splinter easily and could lead to a perforation of the gut, which can be fatal.
Corn On The Cob
Corn kernels themselves are not toxic to dogs, however if your dog swallows the cob it may cause a serious blockage in your dog’s intestine.
Chocolate
Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, contains a stimulant called theobromine which can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.