As a pet owner, you want to ensure that your dog or cat receives the best of food, treatment, and health care. Even though you are tempted to spoil your dog now and then, there are healthy ways to spoil your dog and keep them happy.
Dogs are man’s best friend and they are always ready to do everything with you. Whether you want to go on a road trip, head to the park, or even go on a hike or trek, it’s natural for them to constantly spend time with you. One of the most common mistakes by many pet owners is offering human food to their dogs.
As much as it is impossible to ignore their big brown eyes, staring into your soul for a treat? Certain human foods can be extremely fatal for their health. A lot of times, your dog or cat may unknowingly ingest these foods.
In this article, we will explore human foods that can be very dangerous for your dog’s health.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is deemed safe for human consumption. You will mostly find xylitol in toothpaste, sweetened candy, chewing gum, and other baked products. However, they can be dangerous for your dog’s health as they can put them in a coma. When your dog consumes xylitol it drops its blood sugar level massively which can lead to liver damage and even death. Many dogs have a sweet tooth but it is not good for them. However, this marshmallow recipe for dogs on Pawster can be a great solution to give them a surprise treat.
Avocados
The reason why avocados are dangerous to all animals is that it contains a fungicidal toxin called persin. We humans love avocados as they are extremely yummy and absolutely easy to eat, but it’s very lethal for dogs. Some initial symptoms that may arise in your dog would include diarrhea and vomiting. If your dog eats this, fluid can accumulate in the heart, lungs, abdomen and even the pancreas which can cause severe health problems.
Chocolate
Your dog should never have chocolate as it is toxic for their health and brings about many health complications. Dark chocolate, unsweetened chocolate or semisweet chocolate are more dangerous compared to milk and white chocolate. The toxicity depends on two important factors such as the amount consumed and the size of the dog. It can cause severe stomach pain, dehydration, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, heart related problems, and most severe cases, death.
Grapes and Raisins
There is no proven reason why grapes and raisins are not good for your dog but it will definitely cause kidney failure. Even a small amount of raisins and grapes can affect your dog’s physical and mental health. Vomiting, depression, and being unable to urinate are some of the symptoms that may arise within a day or two. While researchers have yet not found the reason behind the toxic behaviour of grapes, it is best to avoid it.
Caffeine
Whether it is tea, coffee, or cocoa, in a drink or food, caffeine in huge amounts can lead to death. While smaller amounts may not be harmful but it is still toxic for their health. Caffeine is a stimulant for humans, however it contains methylxanthines which can cause restlessness, vomiting , diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm and so on in your dog. If your dog consumes caffeine, take no chance and rush him to the vet.
Milk Products
Just like humans, your dog can become lactose intolerant too. While most dogs seem okay with certain milk products, others can get extreme discomfort such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even digestive problems. While it may not be as poisonous or toxic to the other food products on this list, it is better to avoid milk intake in dogs. And if they do consume it, watch any symptoms that may arise and meet your dog’s doctor.
Wild Mushrooms
When you take your dog for a walk to the park or even let him loose in your backyard, keep an eye out for wild mushrooms. These mushrooms are poisonous and are very toxic for your dog so make sure that you pull them up and discard them immediately. And in the park if you notice specific areas where wild mushrooms grow, avoid that place and even inform the other dog walkers around for their dog’s safety as well. If your dog loves the parks, here is a DIY project where you can convert your backyard into a fun and safe park for your dog.
Nuts
Many nuts such as walnuts, almonds, pecans, etc can be fatal for your dog as they have high amounts of fats and oils. Especially macadamia nuts, it is the most toxic of them all as it leads to weakness, vomiting, hyperthermia, diarrhea and so on. Even your dogs may go nuts for some nuts, avoid them as much as you can. Largest consumption of these nuts can even lead to pancreatitis or inflamed pancreas.
Bottom Line
These are just some of the ways you can protect your dog from any health complications. While meeting their physical needs is important you must also focus on their mental health as well.
Being a good pet owner is a full-time job as it makes you responsible for their life. While spoiling your dog with love, cuddles, and hugs is fun, watch out for these aforementioned foods.