Harmfull food for dogs

It’s hard to resist the sparkling puppy eyes that emerge when food is on the table. And sure enough, it happens from time to time that a piece of food "falls" to the floor, making it en easy target for your begging dog. How cozy isn't it to share a treat with your sweetheart, their happiness is everything! It's important to remember that some foods might not be suitable for sharing, here is a helpful guide to keep snack time safe.

1. Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine
   Chocolate is a widely known no-no for dogs but not everyone knows that also coffee and caffeine are bad. They all contain a substance called methylxanthines which dogs can’t eat. Remember, white chocolate contains the smallest amount of the substance whereas baking chocolate contains the highest!
   
2. The Sweetener Xylitol
   Xylitol is common in a large number of products, and very toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can be very dangerous for your dog to consume so avoid it at all costs. Common examples of products containing xylitol are sugar-free gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, candies, and many human medicines.
   
3. Onions, Garlic and Chives
   All forms of these can irritate your dog's tummy and bowel and even cause red blood cell damage. So avoid sharing your garlic stuffed pasta!
   
4. Grapes and Raisins
   At the moment it is unknown specifically which substance is the problem in grapes and raisins you must keep them from your dog. If they eat enough it can cause kidney failure.
   
5. Salt and Salty Snack Foods
   A doggy consuming too much salt can lead to dehydration as well as excessive thirst and urination. In the worst-case scenario, it can also cause sodium poisoning where the symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, or even seizures.
   
6. Nuts
   Nuts might be a healthy and tasty snack for you but do not treat your dog to them. The high levels of oil and fat can also cause vomiting or diarrhea. Pancreatitis is also a possible outcome of a nutty diet. Remember, macadamia nuts are the most dangerous for your dog!
   
7. Alcohol
   This one might be self-explanatory since alcohol isn’t so great for us humans either. The truth is that the same damage that happens to us, brain, and liver damage also happens to our furry darlings. A small amount is dangerous for your dog so when opening a bottle of wine, keep it to yourself.
   
8. Avocado
   The green trendy treat is another food you might think is a healthy option. It is actually the opposite, especially the shell and pit. Avocados contain a substance called persin which is poisonous for your dog. The highest amounts are found in the leaves and plant itself but it is also found in the fruit. So now you don’t have to share your avo-toast!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What foods are dangerous for dogs?
Several foods are dangerous for dogs, including chocolate, coffee, caffeine, xylitol, onions, garlic, chives, grapes, raisins, salt, salty snack foods, nuts, alcohol, and avocado.

2. Why is chocolate harmful to dogs?
Chocolate contains methylxanthines, which are toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues. The darker the chocolate, the higher the toxicity.

3. Is it true that coffee and caffeine are bad for dogs?
Yes, like chocolate, coffee and caffeine contain methylxanthines, which are harmful to dogs and can cause health problems.

4. What is xylitol, and why is it dangerous for dogs?
Xylitol is a sweetener found in many sugar-free products, including gum, toothpaste, mouthwash, candies, and some medications. It is highly toxic to dogs and even small amounts can be dangerous.

5. Can dogs eat onions, garlic, and chives?
No, all forms of onions, garlic, and chives can irritate a dog’s stomach and bowel and can also cause red blood cell damage.

6. Why should dogs avoid grapes and raisins?
The specific substance in grapes and raisins that is toxic to dogs is unknown, but ingestion can lead to kidney failure.

7. Are salty foods safe for dogs?
No, too much salt can lead to dehydration, excessive thirst and urination, and in severe cases, sodium poisoning which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures.

8. Can dogs eat nuts?
It’s best to avoid giving dogs nuts. The high oil and fat content can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis. Macadamia nuts are particularly dangerous for dogs.

9. Is alcohol harmful to dogs?
Yes, alcohol can cause the same damage to a dog's brain and liver as it does in humans. Even small amounts are dangerous.

10. Can dogs eat avocados?
No, avocados contain persin, which is toxic to dogs. The highest concentrations are in the leaves and plant, but the fruit itself also poses a risk.

11. What should I do if my dog ingests any of these harmful foods?
If you suspect your dog has ingested any of these harmful foods, contact your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary care.

12. How can I ensure my dog's snack time is safe?
Stick to dog-safe treats and foods, and always check ingredient labels for toxic substances. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian for advice on safe snacks for your dog.