While it's tempting to share our meals or snacks with our dogs, some human foods can be toxic and pose serious health risks.
In this weeks issue of Parkevity by OpenPark, we'll discuss the common human foods that should be avoided to keep your furry friend safe and healthy.
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1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and, in severe cases, seizures or even death. Keep all forms of chocolate, including baking chocolate, cocoa powder, and dark chocolate, out of your dog's reach.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxic substance in these fruits is unknown, but ingestion can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and increased thirst and urination. Even a small amount can be dangerous, so it's best to avoid giving grapes or raisins to your dog entirely.
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3. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or in powdered form, contain compounds that can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anemia. Symptoms of onion or garlic toxicity include weakness, lethargy, pale gums, increased heart rate, and collapsing. Keep dishes seasoned with onions or garlic away from your dog, and be cautious of products like onion or garlic powder, which may be present in some packaged foods.
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4. Avocado
Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. While the fruit itself is generally safe, the pit, skin, and leaves contain higher concentrations of persin. Ingestion may lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, the pit poses a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages. It's best to prevent your dog from accessing avocados altogether.
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5. Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and some peanut butter brands. Xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Symptoms may include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and in severe cases, liver failure. Check product labels carefully and avoid feeding your dog anything containing xylitol.
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