Many people have welcomed furry friends into their homes since the start of the covid-19 pandemic. However, new pets come with new responsibilities. New dog owners may not know that some common foods can harm canine companions. (I still double check which foods are safe and which are not, even though I grew up with dogs and have had my own rescue pups for years.) This list includes some of the most common foods you shouldn’t feed your dog.
Remember to contact your vet if you have specific questions about what is or is not safe. When in doubt, also consider contacting emergency services, like poison control, the ASPCA poison helpline, or your local emergency vet. These kinds of resources can help you determine what to do if your dog ingests a toxic food or non-food substance.
There is no telling how your dog will react, depending on factors like the dog’s weight and size, its existing health issues, and the potency of the toxin consumed. The foods below are widely known to have the potential to cause serious health complications, especially when consumed in moderate to large quantities.
Grapes and raisins
Many fruits and vegetables are a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. However, grapes and raisins should be avoided because they can cause major kidney problems.
Veterinarians lack consensus on what exact substance in grapes and raisins causes dog illness. Recent evidence suggests that tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate (cream of tartar) may be to blame. The amount of toxins can vary depending on the type of raisin or grape, plus there is no telling how your dog specifically will respond. That’s why it’s best to avoid taking the risk.
Cooked animal bones
My cockapoo has the precision of a heat-seeking missile when it comes to finding a leftover chicken wing that someone tossed onto the sidewalk. Not only is it gross, but eating a bone like this can be harmful. Cooked bones become brittle and can easily splinter while being digested, potentially leading to major health issues.
Lean, unseasoned meat can be a healthy source of protein in your dog’s diet. And some types of raw bones can be a good dog snack. But be discerning when it comes to sharing table scraps. Don’t offer your dog any kind of cooked bones from your plate.
Chocolate
Chocolate is widely known as one of the top foods you shouldn’t feed your dog. It has theobromine and caffeine, both of which can speed a dog’s heart rate and stimulate the nervous system. These compounds are fine for most humans, but dogs can’t metabolize them as well.
As with grapes and raisins, the toxicity level can vary depending on the kind of chocolate. Darker, more bitter chocolate has higher levels of theobromine and is potentially the most dangerous for dogs. Milk chocolate and white chocolate have lower concentrations.
If you want a special chocolate-inspired snack for your pooch, stick to treats that contain carob instead. Keep actual chocolate firmly on the list of foods you shouldn’t feed your dog.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is used in many sugar-free candies, packaged foods, and some dental products. It is especially common in sugar-free gum and some toothpastes. Although it is generally safe for humans, xylitol can cause low blood sugar in dogs and lead to serious health complications.
You probably already know that sugar-free gums and mints are foods you shouldn’t give your dog. But in this case, it may be a matter of your curious pooch digging through a backpack on the floor or grabbing a package off of a table. Xylitol can also appear in some unexpected places, like peanut butters labeled as no sugar or low sugar. It is best to double check food labels before giving your dog any human packaged treats, particularly for foods advertised as being sugar free.
Garlic and onions
Every time I think that people know that garlic and onions are foods you shouldn’t feed your dog, someone tells me they had no idea. Garlic, onions, and other allium vegetables—like leeks and scallions—contain thiosulfate, which can damage dogs’ red blood cells and lead to anemia.
Keep in mind that these foods are ubiquitous in many forms, including dried, powdered, or raw. All versions are potentially bad for your dog. In fact, powdered versions may even be more potent.
You should definitely keep enjoying garlic and onions. But think of your dog like a tiny vampire who can’t touch the stuff.