From foods that cause digestive problems to toxins that could seriously harm your dog's health, here's what your dog shouldn't eat.
Meal time. You've just served your dog a delicious meal and are now sitting down hungry at the table yourself, but are interrupted by a wet nose nudging your hand and a pair of pleading puppy dog eyes. In this situation, it's tempting to give your little companion a bite or two from your plate. However, my advice is: Don't do it - because there are many common and sometimes surprising foods that can harm your dog. It is important that your dog is always fed a species-appropriate diet, not to mention that he should not get used to being fed from the table. Below I will introduce you to all the foods that are poisonous for dogs are. Keep these out of your dog's reach and also inform all family members.
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We consulted the “animal whisperer” and renowned British vet Dr. Rory Cowlam, who shares his expertise with our clients.
Dr. Cowlam studied at the Royal Veterinary College in London and also appears on television in the UK as a pet expert.
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Why species-appropriate foods are dangerous for dogs
You shouldn't feed this to your dog
Chocolate
The ingredient theobromine contained in chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs in mild cases and can even cause seizures and tremors in severe cases. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is to animals. So if you want to make your dog happy, grab one of the many dog treats that fulfill this purpose.
Caffeine
Dogs are much more sensitive to caffeine than humans. This slightly toxic ingredient can increase your heart rate and cause stomach upset. If you suspect your dog has consumed caffeine, you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Cherries, grapes and raisins
There are certain fruits that you can give your dog in moderation and under supervision. However, cherries, grapes and raisins are poisonous and should never be offered. Grapes and raisins fed to dogs are the most common problem I see in my practice. We must always treat each animal as if it had consumed a toxic dose, since it is almost impossible to determine the level of risk in each individual case. In severe cases, acute kidney failure can occur.
Avocados
Avocados Sare slightly poisonous: They contain the fungicidal toxin persin, which is technically poisonous. The main problem with consumption is the kernel, which poses a choking hazard to dogs or can cause a blockage in the intestines. If you suspect your dog has consumed avocado, watch for symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are considered to be less harmful to dogs. Their acidity makes them more of an irritant than a toxin. However, young green tomatoes can cause tomato poisoning. Symptoms include seizures, tremors, weakness, gastrointestinal disorders, lack of coordination and cardiac arrhythmias.
Onions, garlic and chives
If your dog ingests onions, garlic or chives, it can be fatal. These foods can cause anemia because they can cause red blood cells to rupture. See a veterinarian if your dog has come into contact with it. And if you're thinking about using garlic to get rid of fleas - don't do it!
Nuts
Most nuts are considered harmless in their natural form and can be given to dogs either as a treat or not. However, the shell must always be removed to reduce the risk of choking or stomach blockage. However, if your dog eats something that contains macadamia nuts, such as cookies or candy, they may experience vomiting, weakness, and even hyperthermia (overheating of the body).
Sugar and sweeteners
Sugar is considered to be less toxic to dogs, so you can consume tiny amounts of it, e.g. B. in a dog-friendly fruit that contains naturally occurring sugar. But that should be kept in moderation. When dogs consume a large amount of sugar, they are at risk of stomach upset, obesity, metabolic changes and diabetes.
Honey, for example, is not considered toxic to dogs, but because of its high sugar content, I would advise against feeding it to dogs.
Xylitol is a highly toxic artificial sweetener used in sugar-free chewing gum (although in decreasing quantities) and candy. If your dog eats something that contains xylitol, it can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), coma, and seizures.
Alcohol
Alcohol is extremely harmful to dogs because they are much more sensitive and can tolerate it than humans not even a drop of it. If your dog has consumed alcohol, it will experience the same symptoms as humans.
If you think your dog has consumed anything from the list above, I recommend that you see your veterinarian as soon as possible or contact a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic.
Aside from the foods listed here, there are others that can be dangerous for dogs. If you are unsure about anything, please always seek veterinary advice.
Your dog can safely eat this
In addition to the things that dogs cannot tolerate, there are various foods that they can eat as part of a balanced diet. These include - apart from the many delicious recipes from Lily's Kitchen - the following:
Meat and offal (like the freshly prepared, high-quality meat and fine offal in Lily's Kitchen)
Cheese
(Some) fruits
Vegetables
Eggs
Get your skin in, your little dog!
The information in this article is intended as a guide for pet owners. It is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a veterinarian or other pet expert. We recommend seeking appropriate professional advice for each pet's specific needs.