
Some human foods may seem harmless or even appealing for feeding dogs, yet they can cause major health hazards to dogs. Understanding what foods are safe and which should be carefully avoided is essential for proper keeping of pets. Here is a list of 20 human foods that are toxic to dogs; keep them away.
Chocolate

Chocolate has theobromine and caffeine, both harmful to dogs. These compounds may trigger symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and increased thirst. In the worst case, it may even cause tremors, seizures, and death in severe situations. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially unhealthy for dogs since they have larger concentrations of these compounds.
Grapes and Raisins

The consumption of grapes and raisins can cause damage to their kidneys. Sometimes, even the tiniest quantities can cause damage. Although the exact toxic content in these fruits remains unknown, consumption can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. It may even affect urine production (decreased). In severe situations, kidney failure can progress quickly, demanding quick veterinary care.
Onions and Garlic

Whether raw, cooked, or dehydrated, onions and garlic are harmful to dogs. Both these root vegetables contain thiosulfates, a compound that can damage the red blood cells of dogs. It may even cause hemolytic anemia with symptoms like weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and pale gums. In severe cases, consuming these vegetables can cause internal rupture.
Avocado

Avocado contains persin, a substance toxic to dogs when given in large quantities. While the exact level of toxicity varies based on the kind of avocado and the size/ breed of dog, toxicity is prevalent. Even accidental ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, trouble breathing, and fluid collection near the heart.
Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener. You can find it in the ingredient list of sugar-free gum, candies, baked products, and some peanut butter brands. Although safe for humans, xylitol is harmful for dogs as it releases insulin quickly, resulting in extremely low blood sugar levels. By consuming it, dogs may experience weakness, lethargy, tremors, seizures, and vomiting.
Alcohol

Alcohol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream of dogs. Even when given in small amounts, it can be harmful to them. Dogs are far more reactive to alcohol than humans; however, their body is not designed to manage the intake. Accidental consumption of alcohol can result in vomiting, diarrhea, coordination issues, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma, and even death.
Coffee

Coffee includes caffeine, a component completely irrelevant for consumption amongst dogs. It can prove toxic and can trigger a wide range of symptoms, like restlessness, extreme thirst, vomiting, tremors, seizures, and a high heart rate. Whether coffee grounds or beans, dogs cannot digest any of them; thus, it is better to avoid giving them.
Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts contain a chemical called hydrogen cyanide (HCN), which is proven to harm dogs. Even in small amounts, it can result in macadamia nuts poisoning. The consumption may result in weakness, tiredness, shakes, vomiting, fever, and difficulty walking. Although the symptoms resolve in 12 to 16 hours, if they persist, medical intervention becomes necessary.
Raw Eggs

Bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli can live in eggs. Both these bacteria increase the risk of foodborne illness in humans as well as dogs. Particularly, if a dog tries to eat a raw egg with a shell, the risks are higher. Additionally, raw egg whites contain avidin, a protein that might cause skin and coat issues in dogs.
Raw Meat

Raw meat, such as beef, poultry, and fish, is harmful to dogs. Although dogs do survive on meat, not all of them can digest meat. Besides that, like eggs, raw meat also contains Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, which can cause food poisoning in dogs. The symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration.
Tea

Although tea contains less caffeine than coffee, it is still something you should not give to your dogs. Tea is strictly a human beverage, and it can be harmful to animals. Consuming tea can cause restlessness, excessive thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, shakes, and increased heartbeat in dogs. Even herbal teas are harmful.
Cooked Bones

Cooked bones, especially of poultry or beef, may cause risks to dogs. Wondering why? Well, cooked bones are prone to split when digested. The risk of sharp bits cutting through the lips, throat, and gastrointestinal tract is always evident. Cooked bones can also get stuck in the throat or cause intestinal obstructions.
Salty Snacks

Salty treats like chips and crackers are not safe for dogs. These snacks contain high levels of sodium chloride, which can be harmful to dogs if consumed regularly or in large amounts. Some of the common symptoms include excessive thirst, urination, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, and even sodium ion overdose.
Yeast Dough

Yeast dough contains live yeast cells that expand and rise. While humans can easily digest it, it is clearly harmful for dogs. The production of gas during fermentation causes it to expand and rise, resulting in gas and bloating in dogs. Both uncooked and cooked yeast dough are unhealthy for dogs.
Human Medications

Human medicines, whether prescription or over-the-counter, are harmful to dogs. Some newbie dog owners may mistake giving human drugs to dogs, but it is completely dangerous. Even when given in small amounts, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, are dangerous. It is advisable to keep medicine away from the reach of dogs to avoid accidents.
Milk And Dairy Products

Milk and dairy products can be dangerous to many dogs because they contain lactose, a type of sugar. Dogs, like some humans, can be lactose intolerant, which means they lack the enzyme lactase required for optimal lactose digestion. When lactose-intolerant dogs consume milk or dairy products, they may experience digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
High-Fat Foods

Dogs who consume high-fat diets are prone to develop pancreatitis. This condition is inflammation of the pancreas and is often triggered by fatty meats, fried foods, butter, and even dairy. The inflammation can cause pain and tiredness in dogs, making them lose their appetite. Avoid feeding dogs high-fat meals, particularly in big quantities and during the night.
Spicy Foods

Chili peppers, hot sauces, and spicy seasonings may harm the gastrointestinal tract of dogs. Spicy foods cause discomfort in the form of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drooling, and extreme thirst. It may even worsen any pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders or cause stomach and intestine irritation. Species are not meant for human pallets and not dogs.
Cherries

Cherries, especially the pits and stems, contain cyanide-producing chemicals. This particular chemical can be harmful to dogs and may cause poisoning. Some of its symptoms include breathing trouble, pupil dilation, red gums, panting, shock, and death. While the flesh of ripe cherries is less toxic, it can still induce stomach emotional distress in dogs.
Mushrooms

Many types of wild mushrooms are toxic to dogs. Consuming mushrooms can result in gastrointestinal upset, organ failure, and death. Mushrooms contain different toxins like muscarinic agents, hallucinogenic compounds, and liver-damaging substances. When taking dogs on walks and hikes, make sure you keep your dog away from eating anything suspicious.
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