Dogs love to eat and they always get excited about snacks. Although it may seem like a dog will eat just about anything, it is important to know that there are certain things that are not good for them – just like there are certain things that you may want to eat that are not good for you! To avoid hurting your furry friend’s tummy or a last minute visit to the vet, keep these foods in mind that are bad for your dog.
Sweets including Xylitol
Candies, chewing gums and other sweets often are sweetened with xylitol, a substance found naturally in many food plants. This sweetener is poisonous to dogs. If you find your dog has gotten into anything sweetened with xylitol, take him to the vet immediately.
Chocolate
This is a commonly known irritant to dogs. But what makes it so bad? Theobromine is found in tea and chocolate and is poisonous to many animals, including dogs. The danger of this substance is calculated by body weight, so the smaller the pooch, the larger the risk.
Coffee
Caffeine causes similar problems as one of the byproducts of caffeine is theobromine, mentioned above. Keep your dog away from all coffee related beverages.
Onions
High doses of onions can cause red blood cell damage in dogs. All members of the onion family can cause this so it is best to stay away from shallots, leeks, chives and onions – and keep them out of his reach.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are poisonous only to dogs, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. They typically only make the dog sick but if consumed with chocolate, it can actually take your dog’s life.
Raisins and Grapes
Although the specific toxin in grapes that is poisonous to dogs is unknown, we do know that they cause problems. And because raisins are essentially grapes in a dried form, they produce the same result or perhaps worse. Take your dog to the vet immediately if raisins or grapes are consumed.