Human Foods That Are Toxic To Dogs

As a dog owner, you know how the story goes when you’re having a meal or a snack and your dog looks at you with those begging eyes. Sharing is caring, and who better to share with than our canine companions, right? Well, the trouble is, there are many human foods which are highly toxic to dogs. Some so much so, they have the potential to be fatal.

It’s our responsibility as dedicated dog moms and dads to know which human foods to avoid giving our dogs. Keep reading to learn which ones to never feed your dog, and don’t forget to share this article with other dog lovers that you know to keep them in the know. After all, it could truly save a dog’s life!

Here’s our list every dog owner must know regarding human foods that are toxic to dogs…

what type of peanut butter is safe for dogs?

Peanut Butter

I know, I know, I’m sure you’re thinking this is a crazy one to add to the list because every dog person knows just how much dogs love peanut butter. But the truth is, you HAVE to read the label on that peanut butter before spoiling your dog with a spoonful of it. That’s because many grocery store peanut butter brands have xylitol listed as an ingredient.
This sugar substitute is often found in low sugar/diet type foods, and it is highly toxic to dogs if consumed—even in small quantities. Fido can certainly sample your peanut butter, but ensure that it contains no xylitol whatsoever before offering him/her some as a treat. There are many natural options to choose from which are free of strange ingredients you can’t pronounce—including deadly xylitol.
If a dog does come into contact with xylitol and ingests it, symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and coordination issues. In severe cases, dogs can experience seizures or liver failure in only a matter of days. In search of a dog-safe peanut butter option? Try this!
foods that are toxic to dogs

Chocolate

You might be surprised to know that cats do not have the ability to taste sweetness. Your dog, however, certainly can. Because of this reason, you want to avoid tempting them and keep that chocolate far from their curious nose. Many chocolates contain traces of caffeine, and some can even contain xylitol, too.
When it comes to chocolate, our dogs are unable to break down the theobromine content it contains. And because of this reason, it can make them very sick should they consume it. Experts suggest that just 0.3 ounces per pound body weight can be deadly.
human foods that are toxic to dogs

Garlic & Onions

This won’t be as tempting to your dogs when it comes to their curious sniffer, but it’s important to know just how dangerous onions and garlic can be to dogs if consumed. No matter what the form, all are dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. It’s important to mention this because many of us will want to spoil our pups with some leftover table scraps but this can actually end up becoming a costly mistake. This is because we often season our meat and sides with garlic and onion powder to give it added flavor!
Even the smallest of amount of garlic and onions can have negative effects on your dog’s health. When a dog consumes these human foods, it kills their red blood cells and can even lead to anemia. So, practice precaution next time you think about spoiling your dog with some meat leftovers.

Products Containing Caffeine

Your dog is likely hyper enough as it is, so the thought of giving them sips of your coffee or tea sounds completely silly. But remember, dogs are opportunists by nature. And for many dogs, they’re on a “see food” diet…meaning if they see it, they’re gonna try it!
VCA Hospitals says advises that if a dog is to consume caffeine, this will put them at risk of elevated blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmias. Additionally, should a dog consume caffeine, they can become restless, jittery, and disoriented. Your dog doesn’t need to consume caffeine to get a burst of energy, a simple walk around the block will do the trick instead. And your body will thank you for it, too!

Raisins/Grapes

These juicy gems are downright delicious, but you’ll want to be extra sure that your dog never ingests one of them. Should a dog consume a raisin or grape, this will result in excessive vomiting almost immediately. All colors and seeded varieties of grapes are extremely toxic to canines. Dogs which consume grapes can experience acute kidney damage, or worse, death. Don’t chance it, always be sure to enjoy grapes away from your dogs, and be careful not to drop any on the floor in your kitchen either.

Nuts—Especially Macadamia

While xylitol-free natural peanut butter is an approved treat for dogs, many nuts can cause our pups to become quite ill. These would include: pecans, walnuts, almonds, and especially macadamia nuts. Do you and your doggy a favor and avoid giving them any nut butter to snack on that isn’t dog-safe peanut butter.

If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’re a cat owner, too. Read here to learn which human foods you should never offer to your feline friend. 
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