10 Human Foods Your Dog Should Not Eat
We all love to share our favorite foods with our furry friends, but not all human foods are safe for dogs to consume. At Lagniappe Animal Health in Ruston, LA, we often see cases where dogs have ingested foods that can be harmful to them. This guide will walk you through 10 common human foods that you should never allow your dog to eat. If you’re concerned about your pet’s diet or have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us at (318) 255-3303 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
The List of Dangerous Foods for Dogs
Below are some of the human foods notorious for being toxic to pets. Keep them out of your dog’s reach and contact us right away if your companion happens to eat one of these foods.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains substances called theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic to dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. Even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, seizures or even death. Always keep chocolate away from your furry friend, and if you suspect they’ve ingested any, contact us immediately at (318) 255-3303.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are known to cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact reason is still unknown, but even eating a small quantity of the fruit can lead to severe problems. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If you think your dog has consumed these, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
3. Onions and Garlic
Garlic and onions contain compounds called thiosulfates, which can cause a condition known as hemolytic anemia in pets. Hemolytic anemia is a condition where the red blood cells break down, resulting in weakness, lethargy, vomiting, and even more serious health issues in dogs. Please note that cooking onions and garlic does not mitigate the risk they pose to your pet.
4. Xylitol
Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products, can cause liver failure and hypoglycemia in dogs. Consuming xylitol can lead to a rapid release of insulin in their bodies, causing a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in symptoms such as weakness, staggering, seizures, and in severe cases, even coma or death.
5. Alcohol
Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to dogs, leading to symptoms like vomiting, coordination problems, or breathing difficulties. Never leave alcoholic beverages where your dog can access them.
6. Caffeine
Like chocolate, caffeine is a stimulant that can be toxic to dogs. Coffee, tea, or energy drinks should be kept well away from your pet.
7. Avocado
Avocado contains a substance called persin, which may cause gastrointestinal irritation in dogs. The large pit can also pose a choking hazard, so avoid sharing this fruit with your pet.
8. Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, elevated body temperature (hyperthermia), shivering, tremors, and even seizures in dogs. Though the exact reason is unknown, it’s best to keep these nuts away from your pet.
9. Bones and Fat Trimmings
Though it may seem natural to offer bones to your dog, they can splinter and cause internal injuries. Fat trimmings can lead to pancreatitis. Stick to dog-friendly treats instead.
10. Yeast Dough
Yeast dough can pose a risk to dogs due to the way their digestive systems handle it. When ingested, the warmth and moisture in a dog’s stomach can cause the yeast to continue rising, which can lead to several problems including bloating, gas, obstruction of the digestive tract, and abdominal pain.
Protecting Your Dog’s Health
Remember, dogs and humans have different digestive systems and nutritional needs. If you’re unsure about what to feed your pet, we at Lagniappe Animal Health are always here to help. Call us at (318) 255-3303 for professional advice or to make an appointment. Keep your four-legged family members safe by being mindful of what they consume, and always consult with a professional veterinarian in Ruston, LA, for personalized guidance.
