Urgent warning to anyone feeding their dog 9 common foods

Dogs are beloved members of the family, but it’s crucial to remember during mealtimes that some of our favorite foods can be dangerous, even deadly, for our furry companions.

Many delicious treats that we enjoy, such as chocolate, avocado, and garlic, should never be given to dogs.

It’s easy for dog owners to accidentally offer their pets foods that are safe for humans but harmful or toxic to their pups.

Experts at Battersea Dogs and Cats home in London have urged owners to keep harmful food out of reach, double-check ingredients and, if in doubt, stick to dog-friendly treats.

According to the experts, there are nine common foods you might not know about that can be toxic – or even prove fatal – to dogs, reports the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Chocolate

Chocolate is highly toxic to dogs due to two main substances it contains – theobromine and caffeine.

Dogs metabolise these compounds much more slowly than humans, which can lead to poisoning.

According to experts, chocolate contains theobromine, a stimulant that can lead to kidney failure. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for your dog.

Onions and Garlic

Onions, garlic, and related plants (like leeks and chives) are toxic to dogs because they contain compounds called thiosulfates, which dogs cannot digest properly.

These substances can damage their red blood cells, leading to a condition called hemolytic anemia, where the body is unable to deliver enough oxygen to tissues.

Corn on the Cob

While corn itself is not toxic to dogs, corn on the cob poses a significant risk due to the potential for choking and intestinal blockages. Dogs may attempt to swallow the cob, which is too large and hard to digest.

Pet owners should avoid feeding corn on the cob and ensure that any food scraps are cleared away immediately to prevent accidental ingestion, experts have warned.

Grapes and raisins

Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, though the exact substance responsible for the poisoning is still not fully understood.

Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can cause severe health problems in dogs, and the effects can vary depending on the individual dog.

The experts at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home warn even small quantities can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure, leading to symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

Avocado

Avocado contains a substance called persin, which is harmless to humans but can be toxic to dogs in certain amounts.

While not all dogs will react to persin, it’s generally best to avoid giving avocado to dogs altogether.

Cooked bones

While raw bones can sometimes be a safer option for dogs, cooked bones pose significant health risks.

Cooking bones makes them brittle and more likely to splinter when chewed, which can lead to serious injuries.

Macadamia nuts

Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

The exact substance responsible for the toxicity is not fully understood, but it is known that consuming macadamia nuts can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues for dogs.

According to the experts, macadamia nuts are another food that should never be given to dogs.

Alcohol

When a dog consumes alcohol, it affects their central nervous system, leading to a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog.

Alcohol is extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

Artificial sweetener (Xylitol)

Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and some peanut butter, is extremely toxic to dogs.

Even small amounts can cause severe health issues, including hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver failure, and even death.