Chocolate
Can my dog have Chocolate?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are harmful to dogs. Dark and baking chocolates have higher concentrations of these substances, making them more dangerous.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures.
Bottomline: Keep all forms of chocolate away from dogs. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary assistance promptly.
Sources:
Grapes and Raisins
Can my dog have Grapes and Raisins?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: The exact toxic substance in grapes and raisins is unknown, but ingestion can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, lethargy, and depression.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs grapes or raisins. If consumed, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-toxic-to-dogs/
Xylitol
Can my dog have Xylitol?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in sugar-free products like gum, candy, and some peanut butters. It can cause rapid insulin release in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia and liver failure.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and lethargy.
Bottomline: Keep products containing xylitol away from dogs. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if ingested.
Sources:
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/paws-xylitol-its-dangerous-dogs
Alcohol
Can my dog have Alcohol?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Alcohol can cause significant health issues in dogs, including drops in blood sugar, blood pressure, and body temperature. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures and respiratory failure.
Symptoms: May include lethargy, lack of coordination, vomiting, and slow breathing.
Bottomline: Never allow dogs to consume alcohol. Seek immediate veterinary help if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-toxic-to-dogs/
Caffeine
Can my dog have Caffeine?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain medications. It can be harmful to dogs, affecting their heart and nervous system.
Symptoms: May include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.
Bottomline: Keep all caffeine-containing products away from dogs. Seek veterinary attention if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/poisoning-toxicity/caffeine-poisoning-dogs
Hops (Found in beer)
Can my dog have Hops (Found in beer)?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Hops, used in brewing beer, can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs, leading to a rapid and dangerous increase in body temperature.
Symptoms: May include excessive panting, increased heart rate, elevated temperature, seizures, and death.
Bottomline: Keep hops away from dogs. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
Mushrooms (Wild)
Can my dog have Mushrooms (Wild)?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Certain wild mushrooms can be toxic to dogs, affecting multiple body systems and potentially leading to death.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, jaundice, seizures, and coma.
Bottomline: Prevent dogs from consuming wild mushrooms. Seek immediate veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.
Sources:
Sugar-Free Gum
Can my dog have Sugar-Free Gum?
Toxicity: Highly Toxic
Description: Sugar-free gum often contains xylitol, a sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs, causing rapid insulin release and potential liver failure.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and lethargy.
Bottomline: Keep sugar-free gum away from dogs. Seek immediate veterinary attention if ingested.
Sources:
Onions and Garlic
Can my dog have Onions and Garlic?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Onions, garlic, and related vegetables contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage in dogs.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and pale gums.
Bottomline: Ensure dogs do not consume onions, garlic, or related foods. Seek veterinary care if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
Macadamia Nuts
Can my dog have Macadamia Nuts?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs. The exact toxic mechanism is unknown.
Symptoms: May include tremors, fever, and lethargy.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs macadamia nuts. Consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-toxic-to-dogs/
Avocado
Can my dog have Avocado?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Avocados contain persin, a substance that can cause stomach upset in dogs. The pit poses a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockage.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Bottomline: It's best to avoid feeding avocados to dogs. Consult a vet if significant amounts are consumed.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-toxic-to-dogs/
Yeast Dough
Can my dog have Yeast Dough?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Uncooked yeast dough can expand in a dog's stomach, leading to bloating and potential stomach twisting. Fermentation can also produce alcohol, causing alcohol poisoning.
Symptoms: May include bloating, vomiting, and unproductive retching.
Bottomline: Keep raw dough out of dogs' reach. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if ingested.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-toxic-to-dogs/
Bones
Can my dog have Bones?
Toxicity: Potentially Harmful
Description: Cooked bones can splinter, causing blockages or tears in a dog's digestive system. Raw bones carry risks of bacterial contamination.
Symptoms: May include choking, vomiting, and rectal bleeding.
Bottomline: Consult with a veterinarian before giving bones to dogs. Monitor closely if provided.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/are-bones-safe-for-dogs/
Blue Cheese
Can my dog have Blue Cheese?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Blue cheese contains roquefortine C, a substance that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors in dogs.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle tremors.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs blue cheese. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/health-wellbeing/at-home/toxic-foods
Cherries
Can my dog have Cherries?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Cherry pits contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. Ingestion can lead to cyanide poisoning.
Symptoms: May include difficulty breathing, red gums, and dilated pupils.
Bottomline: Keep cherries away from dogs. Consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
Mustard Seeds
Can my dog have Mustard Seeds?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Mustard seeds can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs due to their toxic compounds.
Symptoms: May include gastrointestinal upset and abdominal pain.
Bottomline: Avoid feeding dogs foods containing mustard seeds. Seek veterinary care if ingested.
Sources:
Nutmeg
Can my dog have Nutmeg?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, and seizures in dogs.
Symptoms: May include disorientation, increased heart rate, and seizures.
Bottomline: Keep nutmeg and foods containing it away from dogs. Contact a vet if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
Plums
Can my dog have Plums?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Plum pits contain cyanide, and the fruit's flesh can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs plums. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
Rhubarb
Can my dog have Rhubarb?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Rhubarb leaves contain oxalates, which can lead to kidney failure and other health issues in dogs.
Symptoms: May include drooling, lethargy, and tremors.
Bottomline: Keep rhubarb plants out of dogs' reach. Consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Sources:
Salt
Can my dog have Salt?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures.
Bottomline: Limit dogs' salt intake. Seek immediate veterinary care if large amounts are consumed.
Sources:
Coconut and Coconut Water
Can my dog have Coconut and Coconut Water?
Toxicity: Potentially Harmful
Description: Coconut flesh and milk contain medium-chain triglycerides, which can cause digestive upset. Coconut water is high in potassium, which can be dangerous for dogs.
Symptoms: May include loose stools, upset stomach, and dehydration.
Bottomline: Small amounts of coconut flesh are okay, but avoid coconut water.
Sources:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
Raw Meat
Can my dog have Raw Meat?
Toxicity: Potentially Harmful
Description: Raw meat can carry bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause infections in both dogs and humans.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and fever.
Bottomline: Only feed raw meat if it's sourced and handled safely. Consult with a vet before switching to a raw diet.
Sources:
Cinnamon
Can my dog have Cinnamon?
Toxicity: Mildly Toxic
Description: While small amounts are not harmful, large quantities can cause irritation in a dog’s mouth and digestive tract, leading to liver issues.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, low blood sugar, and liver damage.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs large amounts of cinnamon or cinnamon-based treats.
Sources:
Peaches(Pits & Leaves)
Can my dog have Peaches(Pits & Leaves)?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: The pits and leaves of peaches contain cyanide, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Symptoms: May include difficulty breathing, red gums, dilated pupils, and shock.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs whole peaches. Remove the pits if offering a small piece.
Sources:
Apricots (Pits & Leaves)
Can my dog have Apricots (Pits & Leaves)?
Toxicity: Moderately Toxic
Description: The pits and leaves of apricots contain cyanide, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Symptoms: May include difficulty breathing, red gums, dilated pupils, and shock.
Bottomline: Avoid giving dogs whole apricots. Remove the pits if offering a small piece.
Sources:
Eggplant
Can my dog have Eggplant?
Toxicity: Potentially Harmful
Description: Some dogs may be sensitive to nightshade vegetables like eggplant, leading to allergic reactions or digestive upset.
Symptoms: May include itchy skin, upset stomach, and vomiting.
Bottomline: Introduce eggplant slowly and avoid it if your dog shows any signs of sensitivity.
Sources:
Chili Peppers & Spicy Foods
Can my dog have Chili Peppers & Spicy Foods?
Toxicity: Potentially Harmful
Description: Spicy foods contain capsaicin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress in dogs.
Symptoms: May include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and abdominal pain.
Bottomline: Avoid giving spicy foods to dogs.
Sources:
Carrots
Can my dog have Carrots?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Carrots are low-calorie and high in fiber, making them a great healthy snack for dogs. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Symptoms: None (unless eaten in excessive quantities, which can cause minor digestive upset).
Bottomline: Carrots are a healthy and crunchy treat that most dogs enjoy. Cut into smaller pieces to prevent choking.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-safe-for-dogs/
Blueberries
Can my dog have Blueberries?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help support a dog’s immune system and overall health.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Blueberries are safe for dogs and can be a great low-calorie treat.
Sources:
Bananas
Can my dog have Bananas?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Bananas are a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamins, and they are easy on a dog’s digestive system.
Symptoms: None (if eaten in moderation).
Bottomline: Bananas can be a sweet and healthy treat for dogs, but they should be given in moderation due to their sugar content.
Sources:
Sweet Potatoes
Can my dog have Sweet Potatoes?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and vitamins, such as A, C, and B6. They are also a good source of antioxidants.
Symptoms: None (unless eaten in large amounts).
Bottomline: Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and easy-to-digest treat for dogs. Be sure to cook them thoroughly and avoid adding any seasoning.
Sources:
Chicken (Cooked, Boneless, Skinless)
Can my dog have Chicken (Cooked, Boneless, Skinless)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Chicken is a great source of lean protein that helps maintain a dog's muscle mass and overall health.
Symptoms: None (unless the dog has allergies to poultry).
Bottomline: Plain cooked chicken is safe for dogs and can be a great protein source. Always ensure it’s boneless and skinless.
Sources:
Apples
Can my dog have Apples?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Apples are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins, making them a refreshing and healthy snack for dogs. Avoid the seeds.
Symptoms: None (if the seeds are avoided).
Bottomline: Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C. Remove the seeds and core before giving them to dogs.
Sources:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
Pumpkin
Can my dog have Pumpkin?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Pumpkin is high in fiber and can be helpful for dogs with digestive issues. It’s also a good source of beta-carotene and antioxidants.
Symptoms: None (unless excessive amounts are consumed, which could cause diarrhea).
Bottomline: Pumpkin is a great food for digestive health and can help with constipation or diarrhea. Serve plain, cooked pumpkin without added spices.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-safe-for-dogs/
Cucumbers
Can my dog have Cucumbers?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Cucumbers are low in calories and can help keep dogs hydrated. They’re a crunchy and refreshing snack, especially for dogs on a diet.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Cucumbers are safe and healthy for dogs, providing hydration and crunch. Serve in small, bite-sized pieces.
Sources:
Salmon (Cooked, Boneless)
Can my dog have Salmon (Cooked, Boneless)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for skin health, coat shine, and inflammation reduction.
Symptoms: None (if it’s fully cooked and without bones).
Bottomline: Cooked, boneless salmon is a nutritious, omega-3-rich treat for dogs. Avoid raw fish due to potential parasites.
Sources:
Peanut Butter (Unsweetened, Xylitol-Free)
Can my dog have Peanut Butter (Unsweetened, Xylitol-Free)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Peanut butter is a great source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. Just make sure it doesn't contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Symptoms: None (unless consumed in excessive amounts, which may lead to weight gain).
Bottomline: Unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter is safe for dogs in moderation. It can be used as a treat or to hide medicine.
Sources:
Eggs (Cooked)
Can my dog have Eggs (Cooked)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and vitamins like A and B12. They can also improve a dog’s coat and skin health.
Symptoms: None (unless consumed raw or in excessive amounts, which can cause digestive upset).
Bottomline: Cooked eggs (boiled or scrambled without butter or seasoning) are a great protein-packed treat for dogs.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-safe-for-dogs/
Kale
Can my dog have Kale?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Kale is packed with vitamins A, K, and C, and is a good source of fiber. It also contains antioxidants that promote overall health.
Symptoms: None (if fed in moderation).
Bottomline: Kale can be a healthy addition to a dog's diet, but serve it in small amounts to avoid digestive upset.
Sources:
Oats (Cooked)
Can my dog have Oats (Cooked)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help with digestion and prevent constipation in dogs. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Cooked plain oats (without any added sugar or flavorings) are a healthy treat and great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Sources:
Zucchini
Can my dog have Zucchini?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Zucchini is a low-calorie, high-water food that can help keep dogs hydrated and maintain a healthy weight. It's also packed with vitamins and fiber.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Zucchini is a safe, healthy snack for dogs. Serve it raw or lightly cooked to retain its nutrients.
Sources:
Parsley
Can my dog have Parsley?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Parsley is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, and is often used to freshen a dog's breath. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can support overall health.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Parsley is safe in small amounts and can be sprinkled over food or given as a treat.
Sources:
Peas
Can my dog have Peas?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Peas are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They also contain protein and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Peas are safe and healthy for dogs. Serve them fresh, frozen, or steamed, but avoid canned peas that may contain added sodium.
Sources:
Pineapple
Can my dog have Pineapple?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and enzymes that can aid digestion and promote a healthy immune system.
Symptoms: None (if served in moderation).
Bottomline: Pineapple is safe for dogs when offered in small chunks, but avoid the skin and core to prevent choking.
Sources:
Watermelon (Seedless)
Can my dog have Watermelon (Seedless)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Watermelon is hydrating and packed with vitamins A, B6, and C. It’s low in calories, making it a perfect summer treat for dogs.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Watermelon is safe and refreshing for dogs. Just make sure it’s seedless and avoid giving too much to prevent digestive upset.
Sources:
Turkey (Cooked, Plain, No Bones)
Can my dog have Turkey (Cooked, Plain, No Bones)?
Toxicity: Non-Toxic
Description: Turkey is a lean source of protein, low in fat and rich in vitamins like B6 and niacin. It helps support muscle growth and energy levels.
Symptoms: None.
Bottomline: Cooked, plain turkey (without bones, skin, or seasoning) is a healthy treat. Be mindful of portion sizes.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/foods-safe-for-dogs/
