A List of Toxic Food & Spices to Dogs that you must NEVER Use

 I’m not a vet, so, all that I write here is from both research and experience. Please note that it’s critical to be aware of toxic foods and spices that can harm your dog. Here’s a list of the most common items. Please stick it up on your fridge so you can have access to it as you’re pulling out foods to feed your dog.

1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic to dogs and lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and even seizures or death.
2. Grapes and Raisins: Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in some dogs. Symptoms may include lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, and increased thirst and urination.
3. Onions and Garlic: Both can cause damage to a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms may include weakness, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
4. Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products like gum and candies can cause a rapid and severe drop in blood sugar levels and liver failure in dogs.
5. Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs.
6. Alcohol: Even a small amount can be toxic to dogs and lead to symptoms like coordination problems, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, coma or death.
7. Avocado: While the flesh itself is not toxic to dogs, the pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain a substance called persin, which can be harmful to dogs and lead to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
8. Caffeine: Just like in chocolate, caffeine can be toxic to dogs and cause symptoms such as restlessness, rapid heartbeat, tremors, and seizures.
9. Raw or Undercooked Meat and Eggs: Consuming raw meat or eggs can expose your dog to harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, leading to gastrointestinal issues.
10. Bones: Cooked bones, especially those from poultry or fish, can splinter and cause choking hazards or internal injuries in dogs. It’s safer to offer raw bones specifically meant for dogs to chew on.
11. Dairy Products: While small amounts of cheese or plain yogurt may be okay for some dogs, many are lactose intolerant and can experience digestive issues like diarrhea if they consume too much dairy.
12. Salts: High amounts of salt, whether from salty snacks or foods seasoned heavily with salt, can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs. Signs may include excessive thirst, urination, and in severe cases, tremors, seizures, or even death.
13. Chives and Leeks: Just like onions and garlic, chives and leeks are part of the Allium family and can cause similar adverse effects on a dog’s red blood cells if ingested in significant amounts.
14. Almonds: While the nut itself is not toxic, almonds can be a choking hazard and high in fat, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis in some dogs.
15. Artificial Sweeteners: Besides xylitol, other artificial sweeteners like erythritol or sorbitol can also be toxic to dogs and lead to symptoms like hypoglycemia or liver failure.

When it comes to spices, it’s best to avoid feeding your dog anything too spicy or seasoned. Common household spices like garlic, onion, nutmeg, and excessive amounts of salt can be harmful to your dog.

IThat covers the most common toxic foods and substances for dogs. However, it’s always a good practice to stay informed and keep an eye out for any updates or new information related to pet nutrition and safety.

If you ever come across any new or unfamiliar foods or substances that you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian or a pet nutrition specialist for guidance. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.

Remember, your dedication to your dog’s well-being, including their diet and nutrition, plays a vital role in keeping them healthy and happy.

I welcome your comments. As a community, we do better!