As dog owners, we must understand that we frequently share our lives with dogs by owning a dog companion. Moreover, we even eat food in front of them! Eating food in front of your dog doesn’t mean that everything in your plate will be safe for your dog. There are plenty of human food that can pose a life-threatening risk if consumed by dogs.
In this Lulu Spot guide, the dangers associated with the worst human foods for your dog will be analysed so that better decisions can be reached based on veterinary knowledge.
Why Human Food Can Be Hazardous to Dogs?
Dogs have a completely different metabolism in relation to food from that of a human being. There are materials that are safe for a human being but are not safe for a dog in terms of digestion or excretion by the dog’s liver or kidneys, however small the quantity may be.
1. Chocolate
Danger level: Highly toxic
Theobromine and caffeine are both found in chocolate, and dogs’ bodies are unable to process these two.
Effects:
- Vomiting and Diarrhoea
- Fast heart rate
- Tremors or seizures
- Severe infection can lead to Death
- Most Dangerous Types: Dark chocolate, Baking chocolate, Cocoa Powder
2. Grapes and Raisins
Danger level: Highly toxic (cause unknown)
A few grapes and/or raisins can lead to acute kidney failure in canines.
Symptoms may include:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Reduced or no urination
There is no known safe amount.
3. onions, garlic, and chives
Danger level: Toxic (Raw, Cooked, Powdered)
Such foods are detrimental to a dog’s red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anaemia.
Common resources that often go unnoticed include:
- Onion powder in snacks
- Garlic in gravies and curries
- Seasoned leftovers.
- The symptoms can develop days after the exposure, and that makes it very dangerous.
4. Xylitol
Threat level: Life-threatening
Found in:
- Sugar-Free Gum
- Candies
- Baked Goods
- Toothpaste
It causes the release of the body’s insulin in large amounts, resulting in hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar) and liver failure.
Symptoms occur quickly (within 30 minutes):
- Weakness
- Collapse
- Seizures
5. Alcohol
Danger level: Extremely toxic
A dog is much more sensitive to alcohol than a human.
Small amounts of these substances also cause:
- Vomiting
- Disorientation
- Breathing problems
- Coma or death
Such as alcohol in desserts and fermented foods.
6. Caffeine
Safety level: Toxic
Found in:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Energy Drinks
- Some medication
Effects:
- Hyperactivity
- Quick Breathing
- Tremors
- Abnormal heart rhythm
No antidote is available for a caffeine overdose.
7. Cooked Bones
Danger level: Physical danger
Cooked bones tend to break very easily and may lead to the following
- Choking
- Internal injuries
- Intestinal obstruction or perforation
A raw diet of bones is also a point of debate and should only be done when guided by a veterinarian.
8. Avocado
Danger level: Moderately toxic
Persin is found in avocados, leading to the
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fluid accumulation around the heart
The pit is also a choking hazard.
9. Macadamia
Danger Level: Toxic
Symptoms may appear in 12 hours:
- Muscle weakness
- Tremors
- Fever
- Difficulty walking
Although the specific toxin is not yet known, its potency is considerable.
10. Salty & Fatty Foods
Danger level: High risk
Such foods as chips, fries, fried snacks, or processed meats can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Pancre
- Sodium poisoning
- Pancreatitis can be especially painful and may also require hospital care.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
- Panic not, but move quickly
- Do not cause vomiting unless advised
- Contact your veterinarian immediately
- Always have the number of a local vet saved.
Early intervention can mean the difference between life and death for your dog.
Safe Alternatives for Dogs
- Instead of sharing food from the table, provide your dog with these dog-safe alternatives
- Chicken boiled plain (without salt)
- Carrots or Apples (no seeds)
- Commercial dog treats that receive vet approval
Final Thought From LuluSpot
We at LuluSpot believe that educating and preventive measures are also essential when it comes to responsible puppy parenting. By learning what foods can be harmful, you are empowered to keep your puppy safe from potential health problems.
Trust between you and your dog is crucial. Your dog trusts you with their life, and what they eat is important. This guide should be bookmarked and shared amongst other dog owners so that your home remains a safer environment for your puppy .