10 Foods You Should Avoid Feeding Your Dog
If you think feeding your pooch table scraps and tasty foods is the sign of your love, think again. In fact, by feeding human food, you could be putting your dog’s overall health and life at risk. Besides promoting a begging behavior in your pet, you could be responsible for weight gain (due to excess calories). If you are concerned about dog health care, then here is a list of 10 foods that you should avoid feeding your dog. Feeding dog supplements instead of doubtful foods could be a safe alternative.
The list of side effects and diseases may dampen the spirits of any pet parent. But fear not, an occasional piece of foods or anything given in moderation listed here will not harm your pets. The point is that if anything in excess is harmful for humans, so it should be for pets.
Foods Dogs Should Avoid Infographic
10 Foods Your Dog Should Avoid
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1. Milk and Dairy Products
The alimentary system of dogs is deficient in lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk). Diarrhea, upset stomach and allergic reaction could result from feeding milk, cheese, ice cream, etc.
2. Eggs, Raw Meat, Bones
Harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella in raw/undercooked meat and eggs can disturb your pet’s digestive system. That piece of bone relished by your pet might splinter and cause chocking, intestinal blockage or tear the digestive tract.
3. Chocolate and Caffeinated Products
Caffeine in coffee, teas, sodas, energy drinks and even painkillers contain a harmful substance called methylxanthine, a cause of vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination, palpitation, tremors, seizures and even death. Chocolate contains theobromide, a toxic substance that can adversely affect a dog’s nervous system, heart, lungs and kidneys.
4. Alcohol
Ethanol in alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, tremors, breathing problems, acidity, and even coma and death in severe cases.
5. Grapes and Raisins
Although not well documented, grapes and raisins in excess can cause kidney damage, hyperactivity, and lethargy in dogs.
6. Macadamia Nuts
Again not well documented but macadamia nuts are known to induce vomiting, weakness, muscle and joint pain, lethargy and hyperthermia.
7. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic present in pet foods and treats generally does not affect pets. It could be toxic and cause anemia, weight loss, lethargy, red blood cell damage if large amount is consumed.
8. Xylitol
Xylitol present in sweetened products such as candies and gums can release insulin and lead to liver failure, vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, if eaten in excess by an unattended pet during Halloween and Easter.
9. Salt
Large amount of salty foods can lead to excessive thirst and urination, sodium ion poisoning, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even death.
10. Avocado
Avocado contains persin, a toxic substance known to cause difficult breathing, congestion, and accumulation of fluids around the heart in animals. Keep avocados away from your dog.