As your dog becomes familiar with you and your family it immediately becomes a beloved member and shares treats with you naturally. However, what you eat and give your dog as a reward might not be favorable for them, and might even become poisonous for their body due to the difference in metabolism of humans and dogs. Not all human foods harm dogs if given in moderation, there are certain foods that you need to avoid giving to your dog completely as they are life-threatening for them. If you are regularly getting check-ups for your dog in Kitchener animal hospital the poisonous effect that happens due to food will be detected early helping you to cure it early. To know which food you have to avoid giving to your canines read this article.
Common Harmful Food Which You Give Your Dog
Raisins and Grapes
This can cause kidney failure in your dog, a substance that causes the problem is not detected yet but even a small amount of grapes can prove to be fatal for your dog. They will have sudden vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss if they consume even a handful of these.
Caffeine
While you may not give your dog caffeine-containing drinks like coffee, tea, or energy drinks it is important to make sure they stay away from their beans. Some painkillers and cold medicines also contain caffeine so keep your dog away as it may lead to hyperacidity or heart issues.
Chocolates
It contains theobromine and caffeine content which they cannot metabolize properly as humans do which leads to vomiting, diarrhea, and also seizures, and heart issues in some cases. Dark chocolate is especially harmful due to the higher percentage of caffeine and theobromine.
Onion and Garlic
These vegetables like onion, garlic, and chives contain allium which can kill their red blood cells resulting in anemia. Whether it is raw, cooked, or consumed in a dehydrated form these will result in diarrhea, weakness, and breathing difficulties.
Yeast Dough
If your dog consumes fermented raw dough through the scraps in your kitchen it will produce alcohol as it rises resulting in causing them bloating, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.
Nuts
Nuts like macadamia nuts can cause your dog symptoms like weakness, vomiting, and hyperthermia as they are particularly toxic. Though walnuts may not be as harmful, moldy walnuts can contain mycotoxin which might give them neurological issues.
Dairy Products
It is not toxic for them, but many of the dogs are lactose intolerant which means they are not able to properly digest the milk which can result in vomiting, diarrhea, and gas. If you give them cheese or ice cream the sugar in ice cream and fat in cheese can cause them weight gain and pancreatic issues.
Baked Goods and Candies
You should avoid giving your dog treats like cookies or candy as the sugar intake can cause dental issues and diabetes, and as bakery products usually contain yeast and chocolates or nuts it can cause them issues too.
Xylitol and Salt
It is found in sugar-free gums and candies, if your dog eats a treat that contains xylitol it will cause hypoglycemia. Symptoms like vomiting and lack of coordination and in severe conditions, liver failure are seen. And consumption of salty snacks like chips and crisps will cause water retention in their body leading to excess thirst and sodium ion poisoning.
Be careful with them!
To avoid your dog consuming such harmful foods, make sure you store them carefully in tight boxes and at places like higher shelves making it harder for them to reach. For food like chocolates and baked goods warn your children to not offer them as they will eat it trusting you as their owner. Also, the moment you notice there is an issue with their health take them to the vet to quickly treat them and maintain regular checkups with your veterinarian to manage their health.
