Dogs are known for their ability to eat things that people can't. But, not all human food is safe for your pup. While we can eat anything, dogs are unable to absorb certain things in their digestive tract which can lead to bad health effects.
Dogs are known for their ability to eat things that people can't. But, not all human food is safe for your pup. While we can eat anything, dogs are unable to absorb certain things in their digestive tract which can lead to bad health effects.
This list outlines harmful foods for dogs so you know what to keep out of reach and what to throw away before your furry best friend has a chance to gobble it up.
Animal fats include chicken fat, bacon fat, lard, and tallow. These fats have high levels of unsaturated fats, which can be harmful to dogs' health. Unsaturated fatty acids are pro-inflammatory and can cause alterations in the lipid profile. For example, they can lower good cholesterol. Meal-time with these types of fatty foods could also increase your pup's risk for hyperlipidemia. This condition leads to high levels of triglycerides in their blood and an increased risk for pancreatitis or other abdominal diseases.
If your dog has previously eaten avocado, it can cause gastrointestinal problems and skin irritations. If your pup eats avocado after an allergic reaction, it can lead to dog food poisoning or even death. A suspected avocado allergy in dogs may present with vomiting and diarrhea. This condition can be difficult to diagnose, but you should take your pet to the veterinarian if you suspect he's had an allergic reaction to avocados or other similar foods that contain a high amount of fat content.
These foods contain sulfur compounds that can cause an allergic reaction in dogs. Garlic can cause a skin irritant, while onions contain toxic chemical compounds which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases death. These types of reactions could be caused by ingesting onions or garlic. Still, they could also be related to an existing condition such as food allergies or food intolerances that are not yet diagnosed by your veterinarian. If you suspect your pup has eaten either of these foods, consult with his vet to see if there's an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
If your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, his kidneys may not work properly and may suffer from nausea and vomiting. The reason this happens is that these fruits have low levels of phosphorus and potassium. Phosphorus helps with the body's muscle contractions, including how food moves through his digestive tract and how he urinates. Potassium helps lower blood pressure and can help regulate heart rate. These two elements are vital for proper organ health, so if your dog eats them in large amounts, he could experience severe health problems as a result.
Dried fruit contains a high level of sugar and can lead to an upset stomach and diarrhea, which can be dangerous for your dog. Dried apples and raisins are two of the most common dried fruits that are toxic to dogs. If your dog ingests this type, he may vomit within 6-8 hours. Some other types of dried fruit that your pup should avoid include prunes, apricots, and figs.
These types of nuts are high in omega-6 in the form of arachidonic acid, which can lead to liver damage if eaten by dogs in large amounts. "Ingestion of large amounts may cause vomiting, gastrointestinal upset, and diarrhea from arachidonic acid," Dr. Robertson adds. Some other types of nuts that are off-limits to dogs include cashews and almonds.
These types of vegetables have a high amount of glucosinolates that can make your dog's urine toxic. A toxic reaction in dogs is often associated with bloody diarrhea. Diarrhea may be accompanied by vomiting and lethargy when severe enough. If your dog has eaten this type of vegetable, avoid giving him any more food until you speak with your vet.
Chocolate includes cocoa, sugar, and other substances. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. The theobromine affects a dog's heart and nervous system and can make them highly anxious or even cause seizures. Cocoa mulch, a common landscaping product found in many yards, can be easily ingested by pets as well. A dog that eats it could become lethargic or nauseous quickly.
If your dog has eaten any of these foods, get in touch with your vet as soon as possible. This can help save him from any unwanted health problems.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.