Get to know these 10 foods you should never give your dog to ensure their good health. Image: Zen Chung/PEXELS

10 Foods your dogs should NEVER eat [PICTURES]

We love to give our pups treats, but some treats we humans eat, dogs should NEVER have. Here’s a list of foods to NOT give your dog.

by Lisa Greyson

19-06-2023 15:05

in Pets

Get to know these 10 foods you should never give your dog to ensure their good health. Image: Zen Chung/PEXELS

While you’re busy preparing a meal at the kitchen counter, dog owners often have their faithful companion by their side.

They sit there with their puppy dog eyes, hoping that something might accidentally fall their way.

Many of us can’t resist the urge to share a little morsel of whatever we’re cooking with our furry friends.

However, it’s important to be aware of what they should and shouldn’t eat.

Here’s what’s on the DO NOT EAT list

1. Avocados

Dogs should never eat avocados.

While avocados are often considered a superfood for humans, they usually don’t agree with dogs.

Consuming avocados in large amounts can potentially lead to cardiovascular problems in dogs.

Let’s not induce a heart attack.

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2. Grapes

It’s important to know that grapes and raisins can be highly toxic to dogs.

While scientists are still investigating the exact compound responsible for the reaction, dogs can suffer from kidney failure even when consuming small amounts of grapes or raisins.

3. Candy

Sugar is unnecessary and risky for your dog’s diet. It’s best to avoid including it in their food.

While there may be occasions when you might allow them to try a small sugary treat, even a small excess can lead to big problems.

Sugars and preservatives found in candies can result in hyperactivity and an elevated heart rate in dogs.

If they consume excessive amounts, it can potentially lead to diabetes and unhealthy weight gain over time.

4. Chocolate

Chocolate falls into the categories of both candy and coffee, as it is derived from the cacao seed, which contains methylxanthines.

They are highly toxic for dogs, and dogs should never eat this tempting treat.

Dark chocolate poses the greatest danger because it has the highest cacao percentage, followed by baked chocolate.

Even white chocolate, which contains the lowest level of methylxanthines, should not be given to dogs.

5. Bones

Yes, believe it or not – bones!

Bones obtained directly from animals and cooked bones are distinct from bones processed by pet food companies.

It is still possible to give your dog bones from sources like livestock, but it’s important to avoid giving them bird bones as they tend to splinter.

Giving dogs cooked bones should also be avoided, as they can splinter and potentially cause blockages in their throat.

6. Garlic and onion

Plants belonging to the general Allium family can potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort in dogs.

Prolonged consumption of these plants can lead to damage to red blood cells and eventually result in anemia.

Cats are particularly sensitive to the harmful effects of vegetables such as onions, chives, and garlic.

If dogs overeat these Allium plants, they can also become quite sick.

7. Yeast

Yeast dough consumed by dogs can lead to excessive gas and discomfort, causing bloating.

Bloating can become a life-threatening emergency if it causes the twisting of the intestines.

Dogs should NEVER eat raw bread dough or bread made with yeast.

8. Undercooked meat

Raw meat and eggs can harbor bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli, which can cause significant digestive issues in dogs.

Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which can hinder the absorption of biotin in pets, leading to potential skin and coat problems.

9. Nuts

Ironic, I know!

It’s important to avoid giving your dog any type of nut, except peanuts which are classified as legumes rather than nuts.

Nuts like almonds, pecans, and walnuts can contribute to pancreatitis if consumed by dogs too frequently.

These nuts contain high levels of fats and oils, which often lead to vomiting and diarrhea when ingested by dogs.

10. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits contain citric acid and essential oils that can irritate and potentially cause swelling in your dog’s mouth and throat.

Overeating any part of a citrus plant can lead to depression in the central nervous system of the dog, but it usually requires consuming large quantities.