Many common foods can be fatal for dogs, including xylitol, cooked bones, avocados, onions, and garlic. Xylitol can cause severe drops in blood sugar and liver damage, while cooked bones may splinter and lead to choking or internal injuries. Avocado contains persin, which is toxic to dogs, and both onions and garlic can destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia. It’s crucial to keep these foods away from pets and consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
We know how hard it can be to say no when your dog is looking up at you with those puppy-dog eyes, begging for a taste of the food on your plate. But if you give in, you could be risking your dog’s health without knowing! Some of the foods that are commonly found in our everyday meals and snacks can be extremely toxic to our four-legged pals.
To help you know which ones to keep your pooch away from, we have put together a list of foods you should avoid giving your dog at all costs.
Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
What is it?
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free and low-fat products. It’s just as sweet as sugar but can be extremely dangerous for dogs. You might be surprised to find it in foods like peanut butter, baked goods, and even some cereals. Always check the labels!
What will it do to my dog?
If your dog ingests xylitol, there’s a risk of their blood sugar plummeting, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms can appear as quickly as 30 minutes after consumption and may include vomiting, trembling, lethargy, and seizures. In severe cases, xylitol can cause liver damage and even be fatal, especially in smaller dogs.
What you should do
If you suspect your dog has consumed xylitol, act fast! Contact your veterinarian immediately, as they can provide guidance on the necessary steps. Treatment often involves hospitalization to monitor and manage blood sugar levels effectively.
Cooked Bones & Fat Trimmings
Cooked Bones & Fat Trimmings
What is it?
We all love those tasty bits of fat on the edge of meat cuts, but leaving them out for your dog can be very dangerous. Cooked bones may seem like a treat, but they can splinter easily and pose serious risks to your furry friend.
What will it do to my dog?
Cooked bones can break and get stuck in your dog’s throat, leading to choking or internal injuries. They can also cause cuts in the gastrointestinal tract or lead to constipation. In severe cases, a splintered bone might pierce your dog’s gut, which can be fatal! Additionally, fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis, leading to symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.
What you should do
If your dog has ingested cooked bones or fat trimmings, calmly remove any remaining food from their reach. Avoid sudden movements, as dogs can be protective of their food. After ensuring they don’t have access to more food, contact your veterinarian for advice on the next steps.
Avocado
Avocado
What is it?
Avocado has become a trendy addition to many diets, but your dog should not share in this popular food! The avocado plant contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs.
What will it do to my dog?
When dogs consume avocado, they may experience vomiting and diarrhea due to their sensitivity to persin. In cases of high consumption, it can lead to more severe conditions like pancreatitis, which can be fatal. It’s important to keep all parts of the avocado plant, including the pit and leaves, out of your dog’s reach.
What you should do
If your dog has ingested avocado or any part of the plant, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Most dogs can recover with prompt treatment, so don’t hesitate to seek help!
Onion & Garlic
Onion & Garlic
What is it?
Onions and garlic belong to the same family of vegetables and can be harmful to dogs in any form—raw, cooked, or powdered. These common kitchen staples can pose serious health risks to your furry friend.
What will it do to my dog?
Onions and garlic contain thiosulfate, which dogs cannot properly digest. Consuming these foods can lead to the destruction of red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning may include weakness, vomiting, and breathing difficulties. It’s crucial to note that even small amounts consumed over time can be harmful.
What you should do
If you suspect your dog has eaten onion or garlic, consult your veterinarian immediately. They may recommend treatments such as inducing vomiting or flushing out the stomach to prevent further complications.
Conclusion
Keeping your dog safe from harmful foods is essential for their health and well-being. Many common human foods, such as xylitol, cooked bones, avocados, onions, and garlic, can pose serious risks to your furry friend.
Always be mindful of what you share with your pets and educate yourself on which foods are safe and which are not.
If you ever suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for guidance. Being proactive can help ensure your dog stays healthy and happy!
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Foods That Can Be Fatal for Dogs
What foods are toxic to dogs?
Some common toxic foods include xylitol, cooked bones, avocados, onions, and garlic.
What should I do if my dog eats something toxic?
If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Can dogs eat avocado?
No, dogs should not eat avocado as it contains persin, which can be harmful to them.
Are onions and garlic safe for dogs?
No, both onions and garlic are toxic to dogs and can lead to anemia and other health issues.
What are the symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs?
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, trembling, lethargy, and seizures.
Can cooked bones be harmful to dogs?
Yes, cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries in dogs.
