6 Foods That Are Harmful to Dogs: What to Avoid

Hello, Canine Crew

As a caring dog parents, keeping your furry friend safe means knowing which foods can harm them. Some common items might seem safe for us but can be very dangerous for dogs. Here are six foods you should never give your dog—and why:

1. Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for dogs. Chocolate theobromine, a compound that dogs cannot metabolize efficiently. Even a small amount can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases, seizures or death. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous due to their high theobromine content.

2. Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, though the exact substance causing this reaction remains unknown. Even a small amount can lead to kidney failure, which may result in symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. To keep your dog safe, avoid giving them these fruits entirely.

3. Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic (whether raw, cooked, or in powder form) contain compounds that can damage your dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Watch for symptoms like weakness, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.

4. Human Medications

Medications designed for humans, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be extremely toxic to dogs. These drugs can cause severe health issues, including stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and even death. Always store medications out of your dog’s reach and consult a veterinarian before administering any medication to your dog.

5. Raw Meat and Bones

While some believe raw meat and bones are natural for dogs, they can actually be harmful. Raw meat may carry harmful bacteria like salmonella or listeria, which can cause illness in both dogs and humans. Additionally, bones can splinter, leading to choking hazards or internal injuries.

6. Peach and Plum Pits

The pits of peaches and plums are dangerous for dogs for two reasons: they can cause intestinal blockages, and they contain cyanide, a toxic substance. If ingested, symptoms may include excessive drooling, dilated pupils, and difficulty breathing. Always remove pits from fruits before offering them to your dog—or better yet, avoid these fruits altogether.

❤️AnccoPlus Thoughts

Keeping your dog away from these harmful foods is essential for their health and happiness. If your dog accidentally consumes any of these items, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance. When in doubt, stick to a vet-approved diet to ensure your furry friend stays safe and healthy.

Thank you for being part of the AnccoPlus community. Stay tuned for more tips, insights, and support on your journey as a Canine Crew!

Reference

[1] Chocolate poisoning in dogs M. Stidworthy, J. Bleakley, +1 author D. Kelly, Published in The Veterinary Record 5 July 1997

[2] Grape toxicosis in companion animals N. Bates, Published 9 December 2015Medicine, Environmental Science

[3] An experimental study of hemolysis induced by onion (Allium cepa) poisoning in dogs (X Tang, Z Xia, J Yu, 2008)