{"id":4500,"date":"2018-07-24T09:00:21","date_gmt":"2018-07-24T16:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/?p=4500"},"modified":"2018-08-14T23:02:53","modified_gmt":"2018-08-15T06:02:53","slug":"safe-or-not-60-foods-that-are-bad-for-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/dog-care\/safe-or-not-60-foods-that-are-bad-for-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"Safe or Not? 60+ Foods that are Bad for Dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If dogs have one thing mastered, it\u2019s the art of begging. They each have their own perfected version of puppy dog eyes and whines that make our hearts melt. While every owner is different when it comes to giving their dog human food, it leaves the question: what foods are actually okay for our dogs to eat? We toss down little \u201ctreats\u201d without questioning whether or not they\u2019re actually okay for our pups and are caught off guard when they become sick.<\/p>\n<p>Below is a list of over 60 human foods that are bad for dogs. If you happen to find a food that your dog has eaten before, don\u2019t fret\u2014call your vet and see what actions you need to take, just in case.<\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Candy, Gum, Toothpaste, Diet Foods<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You may be wondering\u2014why are these grouped together? Simple. All of these \u201cfood\u201d items contain a special ingredient called <em>xylitol<\/em>. It\u2019s used as a sweetener, but it\u2019s not so sweet for your dog. It can lower their blood sugar and can cause liver failure within days if it\u2019s ingested. Look for signs of vomiting, lethargy, coordination problems, and possible seizures.<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Avocado<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This fruit (yes, it\u2019s technically a fruit!) it has <em>persin<\/em>, a fungicidal toxin that acts as a fatty acid. Too much can lead to vomiting and diarrhea, so it\u2019s wise to just keep it away from wandering paws.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Onions, Garlic, and Chives <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These three foods are grouped together because they have the same effects on dogs. They kill red blood cells, which can cause anemia, and can be considered poisonous in large doses. If ingested, look out for signs of weakness, vomiting, and breathing problems. Also, keep in mind that dehydrated and powder forms of these foods will cause the same problems!<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/coffee-2651459_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-4506 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/coffee-2651459_1920-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/coffee-2651459_1920-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/coffee-2651459_1920-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/coffee-2651459_1920-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/coffee-2651459_1920.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>4. Coffee, Tea, Cocoa and Chocolate<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Caffeine, whether it\u2019s in the form of coffee, tea, or chocolate, can be detrimental to your dog. These foods contain methylxanthines, an extract found in cacao beans. Coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate can cause your dog to experience vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, tremors, seizures, and possible death.<\/p>\n<p><strong>5. Pain Killers and Cold Medicine<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>While this could hardly be considered as food, you may be tempted to give your pet medicine if they seem sick to you. Refrain from this and consult your vet about over-the-counter drugs for your dog. While some may be okay, there are ingredients such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen that can be potentially deadly.<\/p>\n<p><strong>6. Grapes and Raisins<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These foods are not okay for your dog, contrary to popular belief. They can cause kidney failure and consistent vomiting, as well as mood changes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>7. Milk, Cheese, and Ice-Cream<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Dairy products in general, including milk and ice-cream can cause serious digestive problems for your pup and can result in him\/her having diarrhea. In some cases, your dog may have an allergy to it as well, which may cause them to itch.<\/p>\n<p><strong>8. Macadamia Nuts<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These can cause serious problems for your dog that can last up to 2 days, depending on how much was ingested. Symptoms can include vomiting, weakness, depression, tremors, and hyperthermia.<\/p>\n<p><strong>9. Fat Trimmings and Bones<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Cooked and uncooked, fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis and if ingested, bones can splinter and make cuts within your dog\u2019s digestive system.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/small-dog-3512586_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-4507 alignright\" src=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/small-dog-3512586_1920-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/small-dog-3512586_1920-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/small-dog-3512586_1920-768x508.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/small-dog-3512586_1920-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/small-dog-3512586_1920.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>10. Permissions, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Apples, and Cherries<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These foods may seem odd, but the real worry is within their seeds which contain cyanide. Cyanide is poisonous to both dogs and humans. Additionally, pits within these fruits have the possibility of becoming stuck within their digestive system.<\/p>\n<p><strong>11. Chips and Pretzels<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These two foods go together because they have something in common: High salt content. Salt in general can be detrimental to your dog\u2019s health. In addition to extreme thirstiness and urination, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, fevers, seizures, and in extreme cases, death.<\/p>\n<p><strong>12. Yeast Dough<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Yeast dough can rise within your pet\u2019s stomach, causing gas within their digestive system. This can lead to bloating and possible twisting of the stomach, which can become life-threatening.<\/p>\n<p><strong>13. Baking Powder and Baking Soda<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Just like yeast dough, these two ingredients are leavening products that can cause your dog to have gastrointestinal issues. It can cause spasms, seizures, and even heart problems.<\/p>\n<p><strong>14. Nutmeg<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This spice has a compound known as <em>myristicin<\/em> which can be deadly to dogs in large doses. If it\u2019s ingested, your dog may face problems such as hallucinations, disorientation, high blood pressure, dry mouth, abdominal pain, and seizures.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/rhubarb-2202501_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-4508 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/rhubarb-2202501_1920-300x173.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"173\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/rhubarb-2202501_1920-300x173.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/rhubarb-2202501_1920-768x443.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/rhubarb-2202501_1920-1024x591.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/rhubarb-2202501_1920.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>15. Rhubarb<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The leaves, rather than the stem, are the ones to keep away from your pet. They can be deadly to your pets and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, lethargy, bloody urine, and tremors.<\/p>\n<p><strong>16. Cinnamon<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Although cinnamon is not exactly toxic to dogs, it can cause problems. Not only will it cause irritation to the inside of your dog\u2019s mouth, but it can also lower their blood sugar and can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and possible liver disease.<\/p>\n<p><strong>17. Tomatoes and Potatoes (Stems, Leaves and Skins)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Keep your pup away from green or unripe tomatoes or potatoes and their leaves. A toxin known as solanine can cause gastrointestinal distress, weakness, lethargy, confusion, and weakness.<\/p>\n<p><strong>18. Almonds, Pecans, and Walnuts<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Nuts in general have high amounts of oil and fat. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis within your pet.<\/p>\n<p><strong>19. Raw Eggs<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This is widely used by owners who want their dogs to have a raw diet, but it\u2019s been largely debated on whether or not it\u2019s actually safe for our pets. Just like with humans, there\u2019s a chance for food poisoning like Salmonella or E. coli.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/thirst-2171119_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-4509 alignright\" src=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/thirst-2171119_1920-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/thirst-2171119_1920-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/thirst-2171119_1920-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/thirst-2171119_1920-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/thirst-2171119_1920.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>20. Alcohol<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>While it may seem silly that this is listed on here, it\u2019s still important to know. Alcohol can affect the brain and the liver of your dog, just like it does for humans\u2014except it takes a lot less. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, coordination problems, breathing problems, comas, and, in worse cases, death.<\/p>\n<p><strong>21. Raw Fish and Raw Meat<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Just like raw eggs, raw fish and meat have bacteria that may cause food poisoning. There are specific types of fish like salmon, shad, trout, and sturgeon that can cause certain diseases. The first visible signs are vomiting, fever, and large lymph nodes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>22. Coconut and Coconut Oil<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These aren\u2019t as dangerous to your pet, but they may give your dog an upset stomach and\/or diarrhea. Additionally, coconut water is very high in potassium and should not be given to your pet.<\/p>\n<p><strong>23. Popcorn<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Although plain popcorn can be given to your dog in small amounts, most popcorn that people like to enjoy has a large sodium and fat content, which can result in dehydration and obesity (in the long-run). Also, the un-popped kernels can hurt your pup\u2019s teeth and gums if left unchecked.<\/p>\n<p><strong>24. Chamomile<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>While this can be used to help your dog with an upset stomach or a mild skin irritation, overdosing can cause serious problems (as well as doing it for a long period of time). If your dog does encounter chamomile poisoning, he\/she may experience a range of symptoms depending on how much was ingested. If was a small dose, it may just be an upset stomach but a large dose could lead to internal bleeding. If you have any questions, consult your vet about whether or not chamomile is ultimately safe for your dog.<\/p>\n<p><strong>25. Mustard Seeds<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Mustard seeds have complex compounds that can be toxic to dogs, so make sure to keep them out of reach, including any foods that may have mustard seed in them. Symptoms usually include vomiting and diarrhea, but if it seems they are feeling worse than that, contact your vet.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/malinois-672624_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-4510 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/malinois-672624_1920-199x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"199\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/malinois-672624_1920-199x300.jpg 199w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/malinois-672624_1920-768x1159.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/malinois-672624_1920-678x1024.jpg 678w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/malinois-672624_1920.jpg 1272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 199px) 100vw, 199px\" \/><\/a>26. Citrus Fruits<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Citrus fruit in its entirety (stems, leaves, peels, fruit, and seeds) contain varying amounts of citric acid and oils that can irritate your dog\u2019s skin and affect their nervous system by making them depressed. If they happen to eat small doses of the actual fruit, your pet may face minor stomach upset as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>27. Licorice<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Licorice plant is highly toxic to dogs and even though the candy doesn\u2019t actually contain the toxicity, it is still full of sugar and can affect your dog\u2019s teeth and their weight. Look for symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.<\/p>\n<p><strong>28. Marijuana<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s largely debated whether or not weed is good or bad for your dogs\u2014there are even products that you can buy that have medicinal marijuana in them! But always ask your vet whether or not it may be smart to introduce your dog to these methods. However, if your dog encounters marijuana in a different situation, the toxicity of the plant can cause them to have symptoms of dribbling urine, low heart rate, low blood pressure, and the inability to stand straight or walk right.<\/p>\n<p><strong>29. Hops<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re brewing beer at home, make sure to keep your hops away and out of sight for your pet. The exact toxin is unknown, but if your dog ingests hops it may result in malignant hyperthermia, increased breathing, vomiting, and in some cases, death.<\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/dog-2365083_1920.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-4511 alignright\" src=\"http:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/dog-2365083_1920-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/dog-2365083_1920-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/dog-2365083_1920-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/dog-2365083_1920.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px\" \/><\/a>30. Sugary Food and Drinks<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This goes without saying, but sugar overall is unhealthy for your pup. It can cause obesity, diabetes, and can affect their teeth. It\u2019s better to just keep it away.<\/p>\n<p><strong>31. Bacon<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You may think bacon is just fine\u2014it\u2019s cooked right? While it may be cooked, bacon has an incredible amount of salt and fat which can cause your dog to have an upset stomach. In large amounts, it can give your dog pancreatitis!<\/p>\n<p><strong>32. Tumeric, Paprika, and Pepper<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These spices contain a little ingredient called <em>capsaicin<\/em>, which can cause your dog to have skin irritation and stomach issues!<\/p>\n<p><strong>33. Flaxseed<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Flaxseed isn\u2019t exactly toxic for your dog if given in appropriate quantities (consult your veterinarian before attempting to give your dog flaxseed)\u2014it can actually be beneficial. However, if your dog happens to overdose on flaxseed, it can become toxic and he\/she may experience symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, trouble walking, seizures, and possible paralysis.<\/p>\n<p><strong>34. Corn On The Cob<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Corn on the cob is a problem mainly because it can cause obstruction problems for your dog. However, if your dog manages to eat it, look out for symptoms of vomiting, stomach pain, and loss of appetite.<\/p>\n<p><strong>35. Watermelon Seeds and Rinds<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>While watermelon itself is okay for your dog, the seeds can cause intestinal blockage and the rinds can give them gastrointestinal issues. Make sure to remove them before giving the watermelon as a healthy treat!<\/p>\n<p>While this is a fairly comprehensive list of major foods that may cause harm to your pet, make sure to carefully consider any food you give your dog. Take measures to ensure that they won\u2019t encounter any of the foods that are listed above\u2014it will save you from worrying too much. That being said, dogs can be extremely curious so if an accident does happen, make sure to watch for any outstanding symptoms and take a trip to the vet if necessary. There are other foods you can spoil your dogs with, but always make sure they\u2019re safe and nutritionally healthy for them\u2014it\u2019s a win-win situation!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If dogs have one thing mastered, it\u2019s the art of begging. They each have their own perfected version of puppy dog eyes and whines that make our hearts melt. While every owner is different when it comes to giving their dog human food, it leaves the question: what foods are actually okay for our dogs to eat? We toss down [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":30,"featured_media":4504,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[726],"tags":[733,712,47,378,170],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4500"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/30"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4500"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4500\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4512,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4500\/revisions\/4512"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4504"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4500"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4500"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sittingforacause.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4500"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}