Which foods are poisonous to dogs?

As a dog owner, your pet's health and safety is always your top priority. While you may enjoy sharing treats with your furry friend, it's important to know that some human foods can be extremely harmful, even toxic, to dogs. In this guide, we'll explore the common foods that are dangerous for dogs, the effects these foods can have, and what you should do if your dog accidentally ingests something toxic.

1. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are harmful to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous due to their higher theobromine content.
Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, restlessness, muscle tremors and seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to death.
If your dog has ingested chocolate, contact your veterinarian immediately. Depending on the amount and type of chocolate, your veterinarian may induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to limit ingestion.

2. Grapes and raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. The exact substance responsible for the toxicity is still unknown.
Symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased urination followed by decreased urination. In severe cases, this can lead to fatal kidney failure.
If your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, immediate veterinary attention is essential. The vet can induce vomiting and administer intravenous fluids to flush the toxins from your dog's body.

3. Onions and garlic

Onions, garlic, and other members of the allium family (including leeks and chives) can damage a dog's red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. Symptoms of toxicity include weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and red or brown urine. In severe cases, it can lead to organ failure.
If your dog has eaten onions or garlic, contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatment may include vomiting, administration of activated charcoal, or, in severe cases, blood transfusions.

4. Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

Xylitol is a common sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products such as gum, candy, baked goods, and some peanut butters. It causes a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and possibly liver failure.
Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and in severe cases, liver failure. Immediate veterinary care is essential! The veterinarian can induce vomiting and provide supportive care, including intravenous fluids and monitoring blood sugar levels.

5. Alcohol

Alcohol affects dogs in a similar way to humans, but in much smaller doses. It can cause serious health problems, including central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, and acidosis. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, disorientation, slow reflexes, and in severe cases, respiratory arrest, seizures, or coma.
If your dog ingests alcohol, seek veterinary attention immediately. Treatment may include hospitalization, intravenous fluids, and monitoring for complications.

6. Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts contain an unknown poison that can affect a dog's digestive, nervous and muscular systems. Symptoms of poisoning include weakness, vomiting, hyperthermia, tremors and depression. Although the symptoms are usually not life-threatening, they can be very uncomfortable for your dog.
If your dog eats macadamia nuts, consult your veterinarian. Treatment is generally supportive, as symptoms usually resolve on their own with time.

7. Avocado

Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The high fat content of avocados can also lead to pancreatitis.
Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing due to fluid buildup around the heart. If your dog eats avocado, especially the pit, which is a choking hazard, contact your veterinarian. Treatment is usually supportive.

8. Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can have serious effects on a dog's heart and nervous system. Symptoms of poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and seizures.
If your dog ingests caffeine (from coffee, tea, energy drinks, or certain medications), contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatment may include inducing vomiting and administering activated charcoal.

9. Raw meat and fish

Raw meat and fish can contain harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli, as well as parasites. Certain fish, such as salmon and trout, can also carry a parasite that causes "salmon poisoning," which can be fatal.
Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in the case of salmon poisoning, fever and swollen lymph nodes. If your dog has eaten raw meat or fish, monitor him closely and consult your veterinarian if he shows any signs of illness. And remember, cooked meat and fish are always the safer choice.

10. Dairy products

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means they cannot properly digest lactose, the sugar in milk. Consumption of dairy products can lead to digestive problems. Symptoms of poisoning include diarrhea, vomiting and stomach pain.
If your dog consumes dairy products and shows signs of discomfort, give him plenty of water and consider switching to lactose-free alternatives. If symptoms are severe, veterinary treatment may be necessary.

The best way to protect your dog is to prevent accidental ingestion of toxic foods. Always keep potentially harmful foods out of your dog's reach and be careful about what you share with your pet. If you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your vet immediately! Acting quickly can make a significant difference to your dog's health and well-being.