Dogs have a higher and different metabolism compared to humans. Therefore, some human-safe foods may be toxic when ingested by dogs. For instance, a dog’s digestive tract may find it difficult to digest fatty foods and as a result, lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and possibly inflammation of their pancreas. Even so, your dog’s curiosity and prowess in begging can be quite challenging to turn down, but rules are rules. Some foods are just not meant for dogs.
However, not all human foods are potentially deadly for our canine partners – the majority are perfectly safe. But you can always seek professional advice from Vetsend to be on the safe side.
What not to feed your dog
Alcohol
Due to their fast metabolism, alcohol gets absorbed quickly into the bloodstream and may cause rapid drop in blood sugar, pressure, and body temperature. Alcohol poisoning in dogs can also cause vomiting, difficulties in breathing, comas, and under extreme intoxication, death.
Caffeine
The majority of the American population tends to consume up to 260mg of caffeine a day. Pets, on the other hand, are not caffeine tolerant. This means keeping your coffee, tea, and energy drinks away from your dog’s bowl.
Ingestion of caffeine can cause heart problems such as increased heart rates and seizures, stomach upsets, nervous system breakdown, and high blood pressure.
Nuts
Nut ingestion can cause vomiting, lethargy, loss of muscle control, and seizures. This not only applies to the nuts (macadamia nuts, almonds, pistachios, and moldy nuts), but also snacks and candies that contain them. It is, therefore, crucial to keep their bags tightly closed because dogs are pretty curious. In case you suspect nut poisoning, go to a vet as soon as possible!
Fruit toxins
Certain fruits perfectly fit a dog’s menu. However, their pits and seeds do not. Peaches, watermelons, plums, and persimmons contain seeds which when ingested may cause inflammation of the small intestines and intestinal obstruction. Plums and peach pits contain cyanide which is poisonous to both humans and dogs.
Grapes and raisins can also cause lethargy, vomiting, and kidney failure in dogs. Nonetheless, there are a healthy variety of fruits your dog can safely eat. These include strawberries, apples, bananas, and blueberries.
Chocolate
As yummy as chocolates can be, they are a no-go-zone for your canine sidekick. This is because chocolate contains theobromine chemical which can cause seizures, abnormal heartbeats, tremors, and eventual death.
Mushrooms
Wild mushrooms contain toxins that may cause nervous system abnormalities, seizures, kidney disorders, vomiting, and even death when ingested in numerous quantities. It is therefore advisable to keep your dog on a leash and stay alert when your bonding sessions involve nature walks.