What should not be given to dogs categorically? - briefly
Dogs should never be given chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol (a sweetener found in some foods and toothpaste) as they are toxic and can cause serious health issues or death. Additionally, bones from fish or poultry should be avoided due to the risk of choking or internal injury.
What should not be given to dogs categorically? - in detail
Dogs, like humans, have specific dietary needs and restrictions. While it may be tempting to share human food with our canine companions, some foods are strictly off-limits due to their potential toxicity or harmful effects on a dog's health. Here is a comprehensive list of what should not be given to dogs under any circumstances:
Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous. Symptoms can include restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, and in severe cases, death.
Grapes and Raisins: These fruits contain an unknown substance that is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain.
Onions and Garlic: Both contain thiosulfates which can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anemia. In severe cases, this can be life-threatening. Symptoms include weakness, lethargy, pale gums, and elevated heart rate.
Avocado: While the flesh of the avocado is generally considered safe in small amounts, the pit, skin, and leaves contain persin, a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Additionally, the pit poses a choking hazard or intestinal blockage risk if ingested whole.
Macadamia Nuts: These nuts contain an unknown toxin that can affect a dog's muscles and nervous system. Symptoms may include weakness, depression, vomiting, ataxia (wobbliness), and increased body temperature.
Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in many products such as gum, candy, baked goods, and toothpaste. Xylitol can cause a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, leading to seizures or liver failure in dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and coordination problems.
Bones: Cooked bones are particularly dangerous as they can splinter and cause choking, internal punctures, or blockages in the digestive tract. Even raw bones should be given with caution, as they can fracture teeth or cause intestinal issues.
Alcohol: Alcohol affects dogs similarly to humans but in a more concentrated manner due to their smaller size. Symptoms of alcohol intoxication include vomiting, disorientation, loss of coordination, and even coma or death in severe cases.
Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and convulsions in dogs. In high doses, it can be fatal.
Salt: While small amounts of salt are generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to sodium ion poisoning. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, seizures or death.
Yeast Dough: Uncooked yeast dough can expand in a dog's stomach, causing gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening condition. Additionally, the fermenting process produces alcohol, which is toxic to dogs as mentioned above.
Moldy Food: Moldy foods contain mycotoxins that can cause tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, death. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain.
While this list covers many common foods to avoid, it is not exhaustive. If you suspect your dog has ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency care. Preventing access to these substances is the best way to ensure your dog's safety and well-being.