Dogs’ metabolisms are different from humans. Foods that are perfectly safe for us can be toxic to them. Everyone knows chocolate and grapes are dangerous, but many of the most common foods we enjoy can quietly make our dogs sick. Your vet bills will thank you if you keep an eye on your dog’s diet. Here are 13 common foods your dog should never eat.
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Rhubarb leaves
Rhubarb stalks are used in a few sweet dishes, but the leaves are highly toxic for dogs. The leaves contain oxalates, which can cause kidney failure in high doses. Even munching on garden rhubarb leaves could be harmful to a dog, so clear away fallen leaves from accessible areas.
Persimmons
The fruit is fine, in small amounts, but the seeds can lead to intestinal blockage. Some dogs may even eat them whole, and then experience vomiting and stomach pain. It’s best to cut the seeds out, or not give the fruit at all.
Avocado pits and skin
Small amounts of avocado flesh are typically fine, but the pit and skin have high levels of persin, which is toxic to dogs. Symptoms of eating the pit or skin include vomiting and diarrhea.
Raw bread dough
The yeast in the dough ferments in your dog’s stomach and produces alcohol, which is toxic. The dough also rises and expands, causing painful bloating. Even a small bite can make your dog vomit, stumble or have trouble breathing. Don’t allow your dog to lick bowls with unbaked dough that are left out on counters.
Macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts are a tasty human snack. But they can be deadly for dogs. A few nuts can leave a dog listless, trembling, vomiting, or overheated. One vet I spoke to said she often treats puppies who get into treats like ice cream containing macadamia pieces. “They’ve gotten into treats like ice cream with macadamia nuts,” she says. “And within an hour, they’re staggering and shaking.” Vets don’t know for certain why this happens. But one thing is certain: No dog should eat macadamia nuts.
Apple seeds
Dogs enjoy apple slices, but don’t let them have the seeds! A few seeds won’t hurt your pup, but too many can leave your dog weak or cause serious health problems (they contain cyanide).
Nutmeg
A vet, who is a friend of mine, once related the story of a puppy who consumed a small amount of nutmeg. (Mincemeat pie or cookie dough on the floor?) Nutmeg is extremely toxic to dogs. This spice contains a chemical called myristicin that acts as a nervous system stimulant. In addition to tremors, which this puppy experienced, vomiting and rapid heartbeat may also occur. Keep nutmeg out of reach and clean up spills right away.
Raw potatoes
Raw potatoes, especially if they are green, contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs. It can cause nausea, disorientation, and abnormal heart rhythm. Cooking potatoes lowers the concentration of solanine, but never offer dogs uncooked or green potato slices.
Cherry pits
Cherry pits also have cyanide which can poison your dog if chewed or swallowed. Additionally, the hard pit could get stuck in their throat or digestive tract.
Onion powder
It’s commonly known that raw onions can be dangerous to dogs, but did you know onion powder found in seasonings can be just as bad? It can cause red blood cell damage which can lead to anemia. Soups, sauces, or gravies that may have powdered onion in them should never be given to your pup.
Coffee grounds
Coffee grounds, even if they were just used to brew the drink, contain caffeine which is many times more toxic to dogs than it is to humans. Coffee can cause hyperactivity, tremors, and rapid breathing, and in severe cases can cause death from heart failure. Be sure to clean up any coffee grounds your dog may come across, even if it’s just a small amount.
Canned tomato sauce
Plain tomatoes are usually okay, but many canned tomato sauces contain onions, garlic, salt, and spices, all harmful to dogs. Eating this can lead to digestive upset and more serious toxic effects. Homemade tomato-based dishes should be carefully checked before sharing any scraps.
Uncooked beans
Raw kidney beans and other raw beans contain a lectin that is toxic for dogs. If your dog eats even a small amount, he may suffer from vomiting, diarrhea or severe stomach pain. Most lectins are deactivated by cooking, but never feed raw beans.
Sources: Please see here for a complete listing of all sources that were consulted in the preparation of this article.
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