Human foods that are bad for dogs

As pet parents, it can be hard to say no when your dog is begging for a human snack. The problem is that just because something is safe for you doesn't necessarily mean it's OK for dogs to eat. Keep your pets happy and healthy by being proactive and knowing which foods are dangerous for dogs.

What foods are toxic to dogs?

The following are a few foods that are toxic to dogs. Please note this isn’t an exhaustive list.

1. Chocolate

Most people have heard that chocolate is bad for dogs. Generally, the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is to pets. So, baking with dark chocolate is more dangerous than with milk chocolate.

2. Onions and garlic

Onions, garlic, and other related foods, such as scallions and chives, are foods you shouldn't feed your dog. Onions and garlic are common ingredients used in many foods we consume daily. Remember to keep any dish containing onions or garlic far away from your pets.

3. Grapes and raisins

Grapes and raisins are other human foods that are bad for dogs. Grapes and raisins are used in many dishes, or you might consume them on their own as an easy snack. They are a commonplace snack for little kids, who are usually the perfect height for sneaky pets to grab food right out of their hands.

4. Xylitol

While you may have never heard of xylitol before, chances are you've consumed it. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that people use to replace sugar in products. You'll often see it being used in sugar-free gums, mints, candy, and even toothpaste. It may also be labeled as birch sugar. Xylitol is known to be toxic for dogs, but its effect on cats is not as clear.

5. Caffeine

Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other caffeinated foods and beverages are bad for dogs and cats. While cats are more sensitive to caffeine than dogs, caffeine can be potentially fatal in both species.

6. Alcohol

All types of alcohol including beer, wine, and hard liquor are another thing you shouldn't give your dog. Many dogs have much smaller body weight and mass than humans, so a little alcohol can have a huge effect.

What to do if your dog eats a toxic food

If you suspect your dog has consumed human food that is bad for dogs, call your veterinarian immediately. Fortunately, most cases of pet poisoning are preventable with good, healthy pet eating habits. Only feed them human food if you know what's in it, all ingredients are dog-approved, and your dog doesn't have health problems, including canine obesity, that make diet or digestion an issue. Seal trash cans, and keep human food out of reach to discourage your dog from sneaking food and to limit the opportunities for poisoning.

Keeping your pets healthy

Keeping your pets healthy includes knowing which are the best foods for them and which to avoid, as well as helping them maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can put your dog or cat at risk for various poor health conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, heart conditions, and an overall shorter life span. Helping your pet lose weight and maintain a normal weight for their breed is an important step toward a healthier life for them.

Consider pet insurance as well as an add-on wellness plan, which can cover vaccinations, dental care, and other routine health checks. Most standard pet insurance plans cover emergencies, which may include treatment if your pet accidentally ingests a toxic food.