Toxic foods for dogs

By Nancy Cope

Keep these toxic foods for dogs far from your pup’s reach.

Dogs can move quickly and will eat almost anything, so be sure to keep them away from items like chocolate, onions, grapes and raisins, walnuts or macadamia nuts.

Toxic foods for dogs include:

Chocolate
The main culprit on the list is chocolate, which many people know is bad for dogs. Did you know however that it only takes one gram of pure cacao to kill a medium-sized dog? Usually, our pets end up sneaking into a milk chocolate bar, which won’t kill them but is still bad. Keep all of your chocolate in the cupboards and out of reach.

Onions
Onions kill the red blood cells in dogs because they contain sulfoxides, which can cause anemia and even death if eaten in sufficient amounts. Raw onions can also cause liver damage in dogs. If your dog likes veggies, give him a carrot instead.

Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins contain toxins which can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs. Even a few raisins given to a smaller pup can cause death. Don’t leave these foods unattended around your dogs.

Walnuts and Macadamia Nuts
These nuts contain toxins which affect your dog’s nervous system, causing weakness, shaking, and tremors in the legs. Nuts are also high in fatty acids which could cause an imbalance in your dog’s diet.

Dairy
Dairy may not be fatal for your dog, but he might suffer from eating it. Some dogs lack the enzyme to process lactose, just like humans. When these dogs eat dairy products they suffer from upset stomachs and diarrhea, which can be very unpleasant especially if your dog has an accident in the house. Many pet treats like doggy ice creams are dairy-free.

While the list may seem very restrictive it is important to know toxic foods for dogs to keep your pup safe. Make sure anyone who cares for your dog is also aware of the dangers.

Share the list with family and friends to avoid having anyone make a fatal mistake.

Nancy Cope is the owner of four rescue dogs and Pampered Dog Gifts.