Foods That Dogs Can Eat: Pumpkin/squash
These seasonal gourds are not only versatile, full of nutrients and delicious to humans, theyre also a great option for our best furr-ends, making Dr. Waughs safe list. Pumpkin and squash are high in fibre, low in calories and full of carotene, potassium and iron and vitamins A, E and C. However, be mindful of how much you give them, as too much good stuff can overwhelm your dogs tummy and even impact how much protein they can absorb, throwing off the balance of their diet .
Additionally, dont feed your dog raw pumpkin and squash , but instead opt for a steamed option. Otherwise, according to the American Kennel Club, pumpkin is a great option for your dog when theyre experiencing mild stomach upset.
Which Chemicals Are Bad For Your Dog
There are a range of substances around your home that could harm your dog, so its important to know what these are so you can keep your pet away.
Many cleaning products are bad for your dog, so keep them behind a closed door and fit child locks if you have a particularly curious dog. Some chemicals may cause a mild stomach upset, while others could cause severe burns of the tongue, mouth and stomach, or even be fatal.
Pest control products can be extremely dangerous. For example, some types of rat poison can lead to severe bleeding and anaemia in dogs. Therefore, if youre using rat or mouse baits, ant or cockroach traps, or snail and slug baits around your home or garden, place the products in areas that your dog cant get to.
Never give your dog any medications unless they have been prescribed or recommended by your vet. Human medication can be dangerous to dogs, even in small doses. These include: ibuprofen and other pain killers, cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, anti-depressants, vitamins, herbal remedies and diet pills. Keep all drugs out of your dogs reach, preferably in a closed cabinet.
Always follow veterinary and manufacturer advice when applying flea and tick products to your pet. Never give products that have been prescribed for a different pet or species, and make sure to administer the correct dose. An overdose can be linked to neurological symptoms including seizures, and certain medications can be lethal if applied to the wrong species.
Grapes And Raisins: Cant Eat
You should never feed grapes or raisins to your dog.
Grapes and raisins contain toxic compounds that are harmful to dogs. They have the potential to lead to rapid kidney failure and death .
Even small amounts of grapes and raisins can make your dog sick, so its important to avoid giving them to your dog altogether.
Read Also: Can You Buy Dog Food With Foodstamps
Can Dogs Eat Lean Meat
Lean meat includes the white, boneless meat from chicken or turkey and has had excessive fat removed. It provides a tasty treat for your dog and serves as a great source of protein. If feeding chicken and turkey, remove the fatty skin and cook or boil the meat without seasoning. Learn more about feeding turkey to dogs.
Alcohol And Raw Bread Dough
Small amounts of alcohol found in drinks, syrups and raw bread dough can be poisonous to dogs. These products contain ethanol, and beer also contains hops, both of which can cause alcohol intoxication. Signs of intoxication include vomiting, disorientation, high body temperature, restlessness, excessive panting, muscle tremors and seizures. Dogs who show signs of alcohol intoxication should be monitored by a vet until they recover, as it can cause failure of the organ systems and even death. The yeast in raw bread dough can also cause stomach expansion, which can result in tissue damage and difficulty breathing.
Recommended Reading: Is Iams Dog Food Any Good
Can Dogs Drink Milk & Eat Dairy Products
While small doses of milk and dairy products are okay for your dog, you could get some smelly farts and nasty cases of diarrhea. This is because dogs become lactose intolerant once weaned off of their mothers milk. Milk and dairy products can cause digestive problems and could trigger food allergies. Learn more about how dog allergy tests can help you learn about potential health issues.
Poisonous Plants For Dogs
The following is a list of poisonous plants for dogs, so keep a watchful eye on your dog if you have any of them around your home or garden, and consider whether you should remove them.
The list isnt exhaustive, but you can find more information at The Veterinary Poisons Information Service . Although the VPIS only handles direct enquiries from vets , its website does provide some useful information.
- Aloe Vera.
- Cherry .
- Daffodil.
- English Ivy, Poison Ivy, Devil’s Ivy and other ivies.
- Foxglove.
- Peach .
- Primrose.
- Tomato Plant .
- Yew.
Recommended Reading: Dr Pol Cat Food Reviews
Raw Or Undercooked Meat
Raw meat can contain Escherichia coli and Salmonella, which are types of bacteria that can cause food poisoning in dogs and humans. Cooking the meat properly kills the bacteria.
In recent years, certain manufacturers have promoted the benefits of raw meat for dogs, and some boutique products contain it.
It is important to understand that raw meat diets pose health risks to dogs and may not provide a complete nutritional balance.
The 10 Most Dangerous Foods For Dogs
One of the myths of dog nutrition is that you should never feed your dog people food. There are many foods commonly found on your own tablelike fresh fruit and vegetables and lean meatthat dogs can happily, and healthily partake in. But there are also things in your kitchen that you should keep well away from your dogs bowl, no matter the intensity of the puppy-dog eyes.
Dangerous foods for dogs: what they cant eat
AlcoholYour dog may be drunk in love with you, but thats the only kind of intoxication he needs. Alcohol has the same effect on a dogs liver and brain that it has on yours, but it can do big damage to a dog in much smaller quantities. Even a small amount of alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, problems with coordination, difficulty breathing, comas, and even death. And just like humans, the smaller the dog, the greater the effect.
CaffeineDoes your dog need a little extra pep in his step in the morning? Try an invigorating AM jog, but dont even think about sharing your Starbucks. Coffee can cause irreparable damage and even caffeine poisoning if consumed in large enough quantities. This risk extends from tea, coffee, and energy drinks to soda, cocoa, and even some painkillers. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors, not entirely unlike how we feel after drinking two cold brews in one sitting.
Read Also: What Dog Food Is Comparable To Nutro
People Foods To Avoid Feeding Your Pets
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: 426-4435
Our Animal Poison Control Center experts have put together a handy list of the top toxic people foods to avoid feeding your pet. As always, if you suspect your pet has eaten any of the following foods, please note the amount ingested and contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 426-4435.
AlcoholAlcoholic beverages and food products containing alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death. Under no circumstances should your pet be given any alcohol. If you suspect that your pet has ingested alcohol, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
AvocadoAvocado is primarily a problem for birds, rabbits, donkeys, horses, and ruminants including sheep and goats. The biggest concern is for cardiovascular damage and death in birds and rabbits. Horses, donkeys and ruminants frequently get swollen, edematous head and neck.
CitrusThe stems, leaves, peels, fruit and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of citric acid, essential oils that can cause irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression if ingested in significant amounts. Small doses, such as eating the fruit, are not likely to present problems beyond minor stomach upset.
After The Pinch Is Over
Now that youve solved the immediate problem of feeding your dog, youve given yourself some time to get more dog food. Once youve done that, it will be time to get your dog back to their regular diet. Not so fast, thoughabrupt dietary changes can upset a dogs tummy.
Transition your dog back to their regular diet gradually. Over several days, mix in increasing amounts of their regular dog food with the in a pinch food until your dog is eating only their regular food.
To avoid another food emergency, consider placing about a weeks worth of your dogs regular food in a plastic baggie. Once the big bag of dog food is empty and youre reaching for the baggie, its time to replenish your dog food supply. If you order your dog food online, choose the auto delivery option so that you always have some extra dog food on hand.
Life gets busy, so its understandable if you run out of dog food every once in a while. Surely, your dog wont mind having some human food for a meal or two. Remember to keep those in a pinch meals healthy and get some regular dog food as soon as you can.
Read Also: Dr Pol Animal Feed
Foods That Can Be Poisonous To Pets
Some foods that are considered good for people can be very dangerous for pets. The list below highlights some of the most common foods that can be dangerous to animals. This is not an exhaustive list, and any decision to provide your pet with food not specifically intended for animals should be discussed with your veterinarian or pet nutritionist.
Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of training techniques, problem-solving and important information about caring for your pet.
Human Foods Dogs Should Never Eat
Some foods that humans consume can be poisonous, or even fatal in some cases, for dogs. Here we look at some common human foods that dogs should avoid.
Those who suspect their pet has eaten any harmful foods are advised to note the amount ingested and to contact their veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435.
Recommended Reading: Nutro Vs Taste Of The Wild
Any Raw Meat Poultry Or Fish
Can dogs eat raw meat? The truth is that while dogs might be designed to eat meat and fish, raw meat and fish arent always safe for them. The problem here has to do with the bacteria and parasites that these foods might carry, which can lead to some severe health problems in dogs. Dogs are more than capable of eating the cooked versions of these foods, at least as long as you remove the bones.
Note that you can feed your dog any raw meat thats designed to be consumed raw. It should generally be packaged so that it cant be contaminated and it should be labeled as safe for raw consumption.
Is Corn On The Cob Safe For Dogs
While small amounts of corn are safe for a dog to ingest, giving your dog an ear of corn can be dangerous. If your dog is determined enough , they will eat the cob and all. The cob can be a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockage. This could be fatal to your dog. Learn more in our can dogs eat corn article.
Also Check: Where Is Natural Balance Dog Food Made
Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat & Fish
Raw meat and fish can become contaminated with bacteria, such as E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. Additionally, some fish can contain a parasite that causes fish disease or salmon poisoning disease .
Symptoms of food poisoning include vomiting, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes. Cooked, unseasoned fish is perfectly fine because the cooking process kills the parasites. Be sure to remove all bones to avoid choking or internal organ risks.
Feeding raw meat is not recommended because there is a risk of food-borne disease for the dog, as well as the person preparing the food. Although raw diets for dogs are increasing in popularity, organizations like the FDA and American Veterinary Medical Association advise against feeding them.
Human Foods That Dogs Can And Cannot Eat
There are two types of people when it comes to feeding dogs table scraps: those who don’t and those who do.
I fall into the latter category, and I fall hard. I am the absolute worst when it comes to feeding my dog people food. I can’t help it. Ava knows how to beg and look ridiculously cute, any self-control that I think I might have, vanishes in an instant.
So, its rather important that I understand what foods are safe to give as treats, and more importantly, what foods are dangerous for dogs to eat.
Even if you have a perfect record of never tossing a table scrap, its important to know what foods are unsafe for dogs to eat.
Also Check: Iams Veterinary Formula Renal Plus Dry Dog Food
Vegetables Dogs Can And Cant Eat
AsparagusNo, dogs should not eat asparagus. While asparagus isnt necessarily unsafe for dogs, theres really no point in giving it to them. Its too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time you cook it down so its soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses the nutrients it contains. If you really want to share a veggie, something more beneficial is probably best.
BroccoliYes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in very small quantities and is best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. However, Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially-severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Furthermore, broccoli stalks have been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus.
Brussels SproutsYes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for humans and dogs, alike. Dont overfeed them to your dog, however, because they can cause lots of gas. Cabbage is also safe for dogs, but comes with the same gassy warning!
CarrotsYes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on this orange veggie is great for your dogs teeth .
Raw Yeast Dough: Cant Eat
It is extremely unsafe for dogs to eat raw yeast dough.
Raw yeast dough is a concern because yeast cells produce alcohol as they ferment, which may lead to alcohol poisoning and death if your dog consumes it .
Furthermore, dogs that eat raw yeast dough may experience severe bloating, as the dough expands in their stomachs. This can cause difficulty breathing and weakness .
Also Check: Iams Veterinary Formula Intestinal Plus Low Residue Canned Dog Food
Milk Cream And Cheese
As dogs grow into adulthood, their ability to digest dairy products decreases as they lack the enzymes to do so. This means they can exhibit signs of lactose intolerance if they eat milk, cream, or cheese, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and an upset stomach. If you think your dog may have eaten something it shouldnt have done, its crucial to get advice from your veterinarian immediately. You should also keep these toxic foods out of reach of your dog to ensure they only eat whats best for them.
Toxic Foods That You Should Not Give To Your Dog
It is very common to find dogs sitting next to the dinner table, looking up longingly to entice their masters to give them a quick bite of food off their plates. Dog lovers feeding their furry friends table scrapes or small treats is common practice.
If you are among this group of pet lovers who cant resist the puppy dog eyes at mealtime, its important to understand that you may be putting your beloved pet in danger by feeding them certain leftovers.
A dog is part of the family, but that doesnt mean they can share all the food you eat. Many foods are bad for them. The dietary needs of humans and dogs are different. In fact, foods that are healthy for humans may not have the same effect on dogs.
Being a dog owner, you must become aware of human foods that are harmful to your dogs health.
Here are the top 10 toxic foods that you should not give to your dog.
Contents
Also Check: Can Chickens Eat Dog Food
Lawn And Garden Supplies
If youre putting fertilizer, weed killer, insecticide, or any other chemical on your yard or garden, keep your pets off of it. Follow the product instructions for how long they should stay away. If the chemicals get on your pets fur and they lick them off, they could get an upset stomach or a more serious problem. If you think your pet may have been poisoned, call the vet right away.
Foods That Dogs Can Eat: Carrots
This crunchy snack is a great low-calorie affordable option that can replace high-fat, processed treats . It is also one of those human foods that happen to be safe for dogs to consume. Dr. Waugh puts them on her go-to safe list and the American Kennel Club notes carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, potassium, fiber and many other vitamins. Cut the veggie to small bits to avoid any choking hazards.
Read Also: Iams Veterinary Formula Renal Plus
Bug Spray And Sunscreen
Most mosquito repellents have DEET, which isnt recommended for use on cats and dogs. Theyre sensitive to the chemical, and it can cause tremors, seizures, and even be life-threatening. Ask your vet for a safer way to keep mosquitoes away from your pet. If your pet eats sunscreen, it can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.