What Food is Poisonous for Dogs?
As a dog owner, it's natural to want to share your food with your furry friend. However, you may wonder what food is poisonous for dogs and should be avoided. In fact, some can be downright dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Knowing what foods are poisonous for dogs can make all the difference in keeping your pet healthy and safe.
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Why Some Human Foods Are Dangerous for Dogs
Dogs and humans digest food differently. Foods that we can easily enjoy may contain compounds that dogs’ systems cannot handle. Their livers and kidneys process toxins in a completely different way, making certain ingredients poisonous for them. Despite what some may believe, just because a food seems harmless to humans doesn’t mean it’s safe for dogs.
There are several categories of foods that are dangerous for dogs, each posing unique risks based on the specific ingredients or compounds they contain. Below, I explain these categories and highlight the signs and symptoms to look out for if a dog consumes them.
1. Toxic Foods
These are foods that contain specific substances known to be poisonous to dogs.
Toxic Substance: Theobromine (in chocolate) and caffeine (in coffee, tea, energy drinks).
Why It’s Dangerous: Dogs metabolize these stimulants slowly, which can lead to toxic buildup.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Restlessness
- Increased Heart Rate
- Seizures Muscle & Tremors
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care analyzed 156 cases of chocolate toxicity in dogs and found that most cases involved ingestion of dark or baking chocolate, with theobromine poisoning being the primary concern. The study reported a 10% fatality rate for severe cases where dogs received delayed treatment.
According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, chocolate ranks in the top five most common food-related calls, with approximately 19.4% of calls in 2022 being related to chocolate ingestion.
Toxic Substance: Unknown compound that can cause kidney failure.
Why It’s Dangerous: Even a small amount can cause sudden kidney failure in some dogs.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain
- Increased thirst and urination (a sign of kidney issues)
- Vomiting Lethargy
- Kidney failure (which can be fatal)
A 2005 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) reviewed 43 cases of dogs who ingested grapes or raisins. The study found that more than 50% of the affected dogs developed kidney failure, with some cases being fatal. Dogs that were treated within two hours of ingestion had a much higher survival rate.
A study conducted by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) in 2019 found that ingestion of grapes or raisins led to a mortality rate of about 15% in untreated cases of kidney failure.
Toxic Substance: Thiosulfates.
Why It’s Dangerous: These substances damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Weakness and Lethargy
- Rapid Breathing
- Pale Gums
- Collapse in severe cases
A 2018 article in Frontiers in Veterinary Science detailed the effects of allium species poisoning in pets, noting that dogs are particularly sensitive to garlic and onion toxicity. The article concluded that even small amounts (as little as 15-30 grams per kilogram of body weight) could lead to severe anemia in dogs.
According to Pet Poison Helpline, garlic and onion ingestion accounts for about 4% of all toxic food-related calls each year. Small doses over time can also cause cumulative damage to red blood cells.
Toxic Substance: Xylitol, commonly found in sugar-free gum, candies, and baked goods.
Why It’s Dangerous: Xylitol causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and can also lead to liver failure.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Loss of Cordination
- Weakness
- Seizures & Coma
-
A 2020 study in the Veterinary Record journal analyzed 193 cases of xylitol poisoning in dogs. The study found that 75% of the cases resulted in hypoglycemia within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. The fatality rate for untreated cases was approximately 20%, with liver failure being a major cause of death.
According to the ASPCA, xylitol-related calls to poison control increased by 56% between 2019 and 2021, with over 6,000 reported cases annually.
Toxic Substance: Unknown, but known to cause neurological issues.
Why It’s Dangerous: Even small amounts can lead to toxicity, causing serious neurological symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Weakness
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Fever & Difficulty walking
-
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation reviewed 48 cases of macadamia nut poisoning. The study found that all dogs developed neurological symptoms within 12 hours, including muscle tremors and weakness. Fortunately, most recovered with prompt veterinary care.
The Pet Poison Helpline reports that approximately 1-2% of food-related poisonings in dogs involve macadamia nuts each year, with fatalities being rare if treated.
2. Alcohol and Fermented Foods
Alcohol and foods that undergo fermentation (like raw dough) can be harmful to dogs.
Toxic Substance: Ethanol.
Why It’s Dangerous: Alcohol has a depressive effect on the nervous system, which can lead to serious health problems.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Disorientation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Coma
- Respiratory failure
-
A 2017 case review in the Australian Veterinary Journal reported on 12 cases of ethanol poisoning in dogs. The study highlighted that ingestion of as little as 7-8 milliliters of pure ethanol per kilogram of body weight could lead to fatal outcomes in dogs. Rapid onset of symptoms was noted, with a high risk of death without immediate treatment.
The ASPCA reports that calls related to alcohol ingestion in dogs account for roughly 2.5% of food-related poisonings, with severe cases often linked to accidental ingestion of alcoholic beverages or ethanol-containing products.
Toxic Substance: Yeast.
Why It’s Dangerous: If consumed, the yeast can ferment in a dog’s stomach, producing alcohol and causing bloating from gas.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal bloating and pain
- Disorientation (due to alcohol production)
3. Fruits with Toxic Parts
While some fruits are safe for dogs, certain parts of fruits contain toxic compounds.
Toxic Substance: Persin.
Why It’s Dangerous: Persin is found in the leaves, skin, and pit of the avocado and can be toxic to dogs.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Difficulty Breathing in severe cases
-
A 2009 article in Veterinary Toxicology highlighted the risks of persin toxicity in dogs. The study emphasized that while severe toxicity is rare, dogs that consumed large amounts of avocado developed vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis due to the high fat content in the fruit. Additionally, avocado pits pose a choking hazard and a risk of intestinal obstruction.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that avocado-related poisonings account for about 3% of all food toxicity calls received annually.
Toxic Substance: Cyanogenic glycosides (which convert to cyanide).
Why It’s Dangerous: The seeds and pits of some fruits contain cyanide, which can be deadly if consumed in large amounts.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Rapid Breathing
- Elevated Heart rate
- Seizures & Coma
-
A study published in Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics in 2011 examined cyanide toxicity in dogs. It noted that while a single apple seed or cherry pit is unlikely to cause harm, large amounts of these parts can lead to cyanide poisoning, which inhibits cellular oxygen transport.
In a report by Pet Poison Helpline, cyanide toxicity from fruit seeds accounted for less than 1% of calls, but gastrointestinal obstructions caused by pits were responsible for approximately 7% of ingestion-related emergencies.
4. Foods that Cause Gastrointestinal Blockages
Some foods may not be toxic but pose a physical hazard if consumed.
Why It’s Dangerous: While many dogs love to chew on bones, cooked bones can splinter and cause blockages or tears in the digestive tract.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Difficulty Defecating
- Abdominal Pain
- Lethargy
-
A 2017 study in Veterinary Surgery reviewed cases of gastrointestinal perforations in dogs caused by cooked bone ingestion. The study found that about 10-15% of cases required emergency surgery to remove the bones and repair the damage. Complications included peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining) and sepsis.
According to Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2019 report, gastrointestinal blockages caused by bones were responsible for about 12% of all emergency visits for foreign object ingestion.
Why It’s Dangerous: Corn cobs can easily become lodged in a dog’s intestines, leading to an obstruction.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal Discomfort
- Loss of Appetite
- Constipation or Inability to Defecate
-
A 2018 retrospective study in BMC Veterinary Research analyzed 35 cases of intestinal obstruction in dogs caused by corn cobs. The study found that 86% of dogs required surgery, and the overall recovery rate was 90% with prompt treatment.
Data from the Veterinary Poisons Information Service indicated that corn cobs accounted for 7.5% of all gastrointestinal blockages in dogs in 2018.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Mandarin Oranges
5. Raw Foods with Potential Bacterial Contamination
These foods can carry bacteria that can cause infections in both dogs and humans.
Why It’s Dangerous: Raw meat, including raw chicken, beef, or pork, can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause foodborne illness in dogs. Dogs may also spread these bacteria to humans, posing a public health risk.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Fever & Dehydration
- Vomiting and diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
- Lethargy
- Bacterial infections (in severe cases)
-
A 2021 study published in BMC Veterinary Research assessed 200 dogs on raw diets and found that 18% of the dogs tested positive for Salmonella or Campylobacter infections. The study highlighted the risks of feeding raw meat and noted that dogs shed these bacteria in their feces, potentially contaminating the household environment.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 15% of foodborne illness cases linked to Salmonella infections in the U.S. each year are related to pet exposure, including from raw diets.
Why It’s Dangerous: Raw eggs can carry Salmonella bacteria, posing a risk of infection. Additionally, raw egg whites contain avidin, an enzyme that reduces the absorption of biotin, which can lead to skin and coat problems over time.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting and Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Poor Coat Condition (with chronic consumption)
-
A 2019 article in Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine reviewed cases of foodborne illness in pets and highlighted the risk of Salmonella from raw eggs. While biotin deficiency from raw egg consumption is rare, it was noted as a potential long-term risk for dogs consuming raw eggs regularly.
According to a 2020 report from PetMD, less than 5% of cases of food poisoning in dogs were linked to raw eggs, but raw diets accounted for nearly 30% of all foodborne illness outbreaks in pets.
6. Foods that Are Hard to Digest
Some foods may not be immediately toxic but are difficult for dogs to digest, leading to gastrointestinal upset or long-term health problems.
Toxic Substance: Lactose.
Why It’s Dangerous: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning their bodies cannot properly digest dairy, leading to digestive upset.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Gas
- Abdominal Discomfort
-
A 2017 article in Veterinary Sciences detailed the effects of lactose intolerance in dogs. The study found that approximately 50% of adult dogs are lactose intolerant and may develop symptoms after ingesting milk, cheese, or other dairy products.
A 2021 survey by Wag! Pet Services found that 60% of pet owners were unaware of their dog’s lactose intolerance until their pet exhibited gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming dairy products.
Toxic Substance: High fat content.
Why It’s Dangerous: These foods can lead to pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that can be life-threatening.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
- Abdominal Pain
-
A 2015 study published in Veterinary Pathology linked high-fat diets, including fatty table scraps, to an increase in cases of acute pancreatitis in dogs. The study found that certain breeds, such as miniature schnauzers, are more prone to developing this condition when exposed to high-fat foods.
According to a 2020 report by VCA Animal Hospitals, pancreatitis cases related to dietary indiscretion, including fatty food ingestion, made up approximately 15% of emergency visits for gastrointestinal issues in dogs.
What Household Items Can Kill A Dog Instantly
Certain household items can be highly dangerous and, in some cases, deadly to dogs if ingested or exposed to in large amounts. While “instant death” is rare, these items can cause rapid and severe symptoms, which, if untreated, could lead to fatal consequences. Here are some of the most hazardous household items for dogs:
Why It’s Dangerous: Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance that is sweet-tasting, making it attractive to dogs. Even a small amount can be deadly.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Staggering or uncoordinated movement (ataxia)
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Kidney Failure (occurs within 24-72 hours)
-
Antifreeze can cause severe kidney damage within hours. If not treated immediately, it can lead to irreversible kidney failure and death.
Why It’s Dangerous: Rodenticides are designed to kill rodents, but they are also toxic to dogs. Different types of rat poisons work in various ways, such as causing internal bleeding, hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), or even affecting the nervous system.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Difficulty Breathing
- Bloody Stool or Urine
- Bleeding Gums
- Seizures
- Collapse
-
Rat poison can cause internal bleeding, severe neurological damage, or organ failure, depending on the type. Without swift medical intervention, death can occur.
Why It’s Dangerous: Certain human medications, even in small doses, can be toxic to dogs. Common culprits include:
Can cause stomach ulcers, kidney failure, or liver damage.
Can lead to liver failure and damage to red blood cells.
Can cause neurological problems and seizures.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Seizures
- Breathing Difficulties
-
These medications can cause rapid organ failure, severe neurological symptoms, or blood disorders if not treated quickly.
Why It’s Dangerous: Many household cleaning products contain bleach or ammonia, which are highly toxic if ingested by dogs. Even inhaling these substances in large amounts can cause significant harm.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting (often with blood)
- Difficulty Breathing
- Coughing or Choking
- Drooling
- Burns in the Mouth or Throat
-
Cleaning products can cause severe damage to the digestive system and respiratory tract, leading to painful death if the exposure is severe and untreated.
Why It’s Dangerous: Many household cleaning products contain bleach or ammonia, which are highly toxic if ingested by dogs. Even inhaling these substances in large amounts can cause significant harmful a dog chews on or swallows a battery, it can leak harmful chemicals like acid or alkali, causing burns to the gastrointestinal tract.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Abdominal Pain
- Lethargy
-
Batteries can cause chemical burns inside a dog’s throat, stomach, or intestines, which can lead to fatal internal damage.
Why It’s Dangerous: Some essential oils, such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and wintergreen, are highly toxic to dogs if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Drooling
- Tremors
- Unsteady walking
- Liver Failure
- Difficulty Breathing
-
The detergent’s chemicals can burn a dog’s gastrointestinal tract or lead to fluid build-up in the lungs, which can cause respiratory failure and death.
Why It’s Dangerous: The concentrated chemicals in laundry detergent pods can cause chemical burns or severe irritation in the mouth, stomach, and airways if a dog bites into one.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Excessive Drooling
- Coughing
- Breathing Difficulties
-
Essential oils can cause rapid liver failure, neurological symptoms, or respiratory distress, which can be fatal without intervention.
Why It’s Dangerous: Certain plants, such as lilies, are highly toxic to pets. Ingestion of even a small part of the plant can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Tremors
-
Lilies can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs, leading to death within a few days if untreated.
Why It’s Dangerous: Alcohol affects dogs much more quickly and severely than humans. Even small amounts of alcohol (beer, wine, spirits, or food containing alcohol) can be toxic.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Shaking
- Disorientation
- Coma
- Seizures
- Breathing Difficulties
-
Alcohol depresses the central nervous system and can lead to coma or respiratory failure, which can be fatal.
Why It’s Dangerous: Nicotine is highly toxic to dogs. Ingesting even a small amount of nicotine from cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or nicotine gum can be deadly.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Collapse
- Rapid Heart Rate
-
Nicotine can cause severe neurological symptoms and respiratory failure, leading to death if untreated.
Preventing Accidental Poisoning from Dogs
Accidental poisoning in dogs often happens when they get hold of hazardous foods that are toxic to them. Common foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, and certain artificial sweeteners (like xylitol) can be dangerous to dogs if ingested. Preventing such accidents involves careful storage practices to make sure dogs cannot access these items.
Dog Toxicity Treatment At Home: What To Do In Case Of Accidental Ingestion?
1. Identify the Toxin
2. Call Your Veterinarian or Poison Control
3. Induce Vomiting (Only if Advised)
4. Neutralize the Toxin
5. Monitor Symptoms
6. Hydrate and Comfort
What Not to Do to Prevent Your Dog from Being Poisoned?
- Do not induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, having seizures, or if the toxin is a corrosive substance (e.g., bleach, batteries). Avoid home remedies or antidotes without veterinary advice.
- Do not induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, having seizures, or if the toxin is a corrosive substance (e.g., bleach, batteries). Avoid home remedies or antidotes without veterinary advice.
Remember, even with these steps, a vet visit may still be necessary.
Safe Alternatives Foods for Dogs
Dog-Friendly Treats
When treating your dog, stick to store-bought or vet-approved treats designed for dogs. These are formulated to be safe and healthy for their systems.
Safe Fruits and Vegetables for Dogs
Some fruits and vegetables, like apples, carrots, and blueberries, make great snacks for dogs. Always ensure these are given in moderation and without seeds or pits.
Conclusion!
Protecting your dog from harmful foods is a key part of responsible pet ownership. By being mindful of what foods are poisonous for dogs and taking steps to prevent accidental ingestion, you can help ensure your furry companion stays healthy and happy.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Yes, even small amounts of toxic foods like chocolate or grapes can lead to serious health issues in dogs.
Contact your vet or a pet poison control hotline immediately. Quick action is essential.
While all dogs are at risk, individual sensitivities can vary. Always err on the side of caution.
No, even trace amounts of certain toxic foods can be dangerous. It’s better to avoid them altogether.
Homemade food can be safe if properly balanced and free from harmful ingredients. Consult your vet for guidance.
No, cooked bones can splinter and cause blockages or perforations in the digestive tract. Always avoid giving dogs cooked bones.
