If you’re like most dog owners, you want to make sure that your furry friend is eating the best food possible. It can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking what’s good for you is also good for them. However, not all the foods you eat are suitable for your pup. Some of them can be downright dangerous! From ones that can cause an upset stomach to others that can be deadly, this blog post will discuss some of the worst food items to feed your dog
Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the worst things that you can feed your dog. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. The amount of theobromine in chocolate varies depending on the type of chocolate, with darker chocolates containing more of the chemical than milk or white chocolate. Even a small amount of chocolate can be dangerous for your dog, so it’s best to avoid giving them any at all. If your dog does eat chocolate, watch for signs of toxicity such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or seizures. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately.
Bacon
Although bacon can be one of the most delicious breakfast foods, it is one of the worst things to feed your dog. Bacon is high in fat and salt, which can be dangerous for dogs. Fat can cause pancreatitis in dogs, while too much salt can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. In addition, bacon often contains nitrates and preservatives, which can be toxic to dogs. So next time you’re cooking breakfast, make sure to keep the bacon away from your furry friend.
Garlic
Garlic is part of the onion family, and, like onions, it can be toxic to dogs. When you eat garlic, the worst that will happen is you have some bad breath, but this is not the case for your dog. Garlic contains a compound called thiosulfate, which can cause anemia in dogs. Anemia is a condition where not enough red blood cells are circulating throughout the body. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and even death. So, if you’re looking for a way to spice up your dog’s food, skip the garlic and look for other herbs and spices instead.
Cheese
Cheese is one of those things that goes on everything, right? Well, not when it comes to feeding your dog. Cheese is one of the worst things you can feed them, and there are a few reasons why. Cheese is high in fat and cholesterol, for starters, which isn’t suitable for dogs. It can cause obesity and other health problems down the road. Secondly, cheese can be challenging for dogs to digest, which can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Finally, some types of cheese contain bacteria that can be toxic to dogs and make them very sick. So, it’s best just to steer clear of feeding your dog any cheese.
Raisins
Raisins may seem like a harmless snack, but they are one of the worst things that you can feed your dog. Raisins have tons of sugar, and they can cause your dog to become very sick. Raisins can cause liver damage, renal failure, and even death in some cases. If you want to give your dog a natural treat, stick to things like carrots or apples instead of raisins. With all the dangers that raisins pose to dogs, it is best to avoid giving them to your pup.
Peaches
Peaches are a delicious summer fruit, but they can be dangerous for dogs. The pit of a peach contains cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs. If your dog eats a peach pit, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and seizures. Cyanide poisoning can be fatal, so getting your dog to the vet right away is essential. Even if you remove the pit, the fruit itself can still be harmful to dogs. Peaches are high in sugar and can cause stomach upset. They can also lead to pancreatitis in dogs. So, pit or not, it’s a good idea to keep this juicy fruit away from your pup.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are a common ingredient in many cookies and candies, but they are very dangerous for dogs. These little nuts contain toxins that can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and paralysis in dogs. Although it’s not fully understood what the toxin is in these nuts, it can affect the nervous system of dogs. Macadamia nut poisoning can be fatal, so it’s best to keep these nuts away from your furry friend. If your dog ingests even a small amount of macadamia nuts, they will need to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
Conclusion
So, what foods should you never feed your dog? The list is long, but some of the most common offenders are the ones included above. If you have any questions about whether a food is safe for your pet or not, be sure to consult with your veterinarian. Even if you’re conscientious about what you feed your dog, it’s important to be aware of the foods that are toxic to them. By being informed, you can keep your dog safe and healthy!