Keep It Out of the Bowl: 12 Human Foods That Can Harm Your Dog

Published on April 4 by Julia

⚠️ Top Human Foods That Are Toxic or Harmful to Dogs

1. Chocolate

• Contains theobromine and caffeine, which can overstimulate a dog’s heart and nervous system.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, seizures.
• Dark chocolate = most toxic.

2. Grapes and Raisins

• Can cause sudden kidney failure—even in small amounts.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, kidney failure.

3. Onions, Garlic, Leeks, and Chives

• Allium family foods can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
• Symptoms: Weakness, pale gums, collapse.

4. Alcohol

• Even small amounts of beer, wine, or liquor can be deadly.
• Symptoms: Disorientation, vomiting, breathing issues, coma.

5. Xylitol (Found in sugar-free gum, candy, and peanut butter)

• Triggers a sudden release of insulin, leading to dangerous hypoglycemia.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, seizures, liver failure, death.

6. Caffeine (Coffee, tea, energy drinks)

• Dogs are far more sensitive to caffeine than humans.
• Symptoms: Restlessness, tremors, fast heartbeat, seizures.

7. Avocado

• Contains persin, which can be mildly toxic to dogs, especially in large amounts.
• The pit also poses a serious choking hazard or intestinal blockage.

8. Macadamia Nuts

• Cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia.
• Toxic dose is relatively small—keep these far away.

9. Bones (Cooked)

• Can splinter and cause internal damage or choking.
• Raw bones may be safer, but supervision is still critical.

10. Fatty Foods (Bacon, Sausage, Fast Food)

• Can cause pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious condition.
• Also contributes to obesity and other health issues.

11. Dough with Yeast

• Can expand in the stomach and cause bloating or even rupture.
• Fermentation also produces alcohol—double danger.

12. Salt and Salty Snacks

• Excess salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures.

---

✅ Bonus: Foods That Are Safe in Moderation

While the list above highlights foods to avoid, here are a few human snacks that can be safely shared in small amounts:

• Carrots
• Apples (no seeds)
• Blueberries
• Plain cooked chicken
• Pumpkin (plain)
• Peanut butter (xylitol-free)

Always introduce new foods slowly and in small quantities to check for allergies or sensitivities.

---

Your dog might give you those irresistible puppy-dog eyes, but sharing the wrong snack could do real harm. When in doubt, stick to dog-safe treats or consult your vet before feeding your dog anything outside their usual diet.

Being informed could be the difference between a treat and a trip to the emergency vet.

---