10 Foods NOT to Feed Your Dog
Even though we know we aren't supposed to, we sometimes give into those big, sad, brown eyes that are begging for us to share our food at the dinner table.
You might be hanging out with your dog, eating Doritos and watching television. Every 5 or 6 chips, you might decide to slide him one.
While giving your dog a snack every once in awhile is okay, it's important to keep track of how much you're actually giving them.
You see, a humans digestive system is very different from a dogs. The food we eat can have a very different effect inside of your dog, and cause significant damage to their nervous system and organs. Keep your dog safe and don't take the risk; never feed them the foods listed below:
1. Alcohol
I've met people who, for whatever reason, think it's just hilarious to get their dogs drunk. Not only is it inhumane and irresponsible, it is also considered animal cruelty under the law. It doesn't take much alcohol to create a negative effect on a canines body. Alcohol in a dogs system can cause difficulties breathing, anaphylactic shock, damage to the central nervous system, and to the brain and liver. It has nearly the same effect as it does on humans, but with much greater force.
2. Chocolate
Chocolate contains a chemical called Theobromine, which is toxic to canines. The results can vary depending on how much they've consumed. Typically, and M&M or two won't do much, but if they eat a whole bag, you've got a problem on your hands. Darker chocolates are also worse than white chocolates.
If you notice labored breathing, an irregular heartbeat, or excessive drooling, get your dog to the vet.
Once your pet's nervous system starts to react to Theobromine, you've only got a limited amount of time before there is permanent damage to the body. Overeating chocolate can be fatal to your dog, so don't waste any time.
3. Bones or Rawhides
At this point, you're probably thinking, "I give my dog bones all the time, what's the problem?" Well, rawhide bones have been recalled by the FDA over 100 in times the past few years. They can be deadly, the material doesn't break down properly and causes great harm to your dog's digestive system.
If you've fed your dog rawhide and notice bloody stool or diarrhea, discontinue the rawhide immediately and head to the vet. It may just be irritation, but you never know how serious it can be.
Don't feed them leftover chicken bones either!
Bones left from the Thanksgiving Day turkey should never go into your dog's food bowl. Canines frequently choke on bones, and it's extremely possible for sharp pieces to obstruct or puncture the stomach.
4. Grapes and Raisins
These seemingly harmless fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs. It is unknown why this occurs though, as some dogs are unaffected by it. You should still play it safe though, don't take a chance at harming your pup.
5. Coffee
You might be wondering how on earth a dog would find access to coffee, but it's not uncommon for owners to accidentally spill grounds on the floor. Should your dog lap them up, it could create major dysfunction within your dog's nervous system.
Coffee can increase your dogs heart rate, cause seizures, coma, and diarrhea. There are far more fatalities with smaller dogs regarding coffee because their body weight is so light.
6. Garlic and Onions
Garlic onions, chives, and other onion-type vegetables contain a chemical compound called N-propyl Disufide. In dogs, eating too many onions can cause liver damage, diarrhea, and if given over long periods of time, anemia.
Small portions of garlic and garlic powder are often suggested as a remedy for tape worm.
Personally, I would avoid using this technique. If you're strapped for cash and can't afford a monthly pill, just go to your local pet supply store and purchase the de-worming powder. It's a temporary fix, but it should give your pet some relief until you can get proper treatment.
7. Macademia Nuts
These nuts create a scary response within your pet. Within 12 hours of eating Macademia nuts, your dog might experience seizures, tremors, paralysis, and lethargic behavior.
8. Corn on the Cob
Corn itself isn't bad for dogs, but families love to toss their family pet the last of the cob. This is a big mistake, it is very likely and extremely possible for your dog to choke on it by eating too fast. Even if the cob does make it down the hatch, there's not telling whether or not it might get stuck in their digestive tract.
It's okay to scrape the last bits of corn into their bowl.
Just don't give them the entire cob! Surgery to remove it can cost thousands of dollars, it's better to be safe.
9. Chewing Gum
Believe it or not, chewing gum is 100 times more toxic than chocolate! The reason being, the sweetener in gum contains a chemical called xylitol. Veterinarians often see cases of xylitol poisoning due to dog eating gum off the ground, out of the garbage, or consuming it in another product.
If poisoned, your dog will experience hypoglycemia and liver failure.
Did You Know?
Apple seeds are poisonous to all living things. Neither you, nor your dog should consume apple seeds.
10. Apple Seeds
Not only are they bad for your dog, they're bad for you too! Apple seeds contain a chemical called amygdalin. Once broken down, amygdalin eventually converts into a cyanide form.
Thankfully, you or your dog would have to intentionally eat A LOT of seeds to really be effected by them. Just keep your dog away from apple cores in the trashcan and they should be just fine.
On a related topic, keep essential oils and vape juice out of reach.
Although they don't fall under the category of foods, veterinarians are seeing a rise in the number of emergency visits regarding animals who have had bad reactions from burning essential oils. Keep them up high in a top shelf!