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.
Which Human Foods Are Dangerous For Dogs
Posted on September 13, 2021 by Release the Hounds – Expert Advice and Tips
Caring pet owners are acutely aware of the food they allow their dogs to eat, as well as the hazards of potentially harmful foods that their dogs might get at. New owners are often curious about which foods pose a serious danger because they want to know they arent feeding poison to their pup.
Weve put together a visual list of foods that are commonly asked about and added a caution score the higher, the more dangerous. Consumption of small to medium-sized amounts of the highly dangerous foods on this list are likely to be significantly damaging to your dog, or lethal.
Dont Allow Others To Feedyour Pomeranian
When other family members and friends visit me, my Pomeranians are ecstatic. They get plenty of attention as they run around in such an excited manner. They know the best way to get attention is to beg for human food , and they have become so adept at it during their years living in your home. However, you mustnt allow your visitors to be enticed into feeding them.
You can pre-empt trouble by asking all the visitors to practice restraint whenever they want to give your Pomeranians any human food. As an owner, you should be an expert when it comes to knowing what human foods are safe and not safe to feed your Pomeranians but you cant expect visitors to have the same degree of knowledge.
Therefore, the household rule for animal feeding needs to be one of two options:
1. Anybody not living in the house must check with you before feeding your Poms.
2. Nobody can feed your Pomeranians unless they live in the house.
Then its your choice if you want to stick with one option or swap them, depending on who is visiting. These simple rules will keep your Pomeranians safe from harm.
Also Check: Iams Veterinary Formula Intestinal Plus Dog Food
What Can My Dog Eat
A popular never-ending question that most dog owners have is whether or not they can feed their dog can certain foods. What are healthy fats for your dog? What about human foods? To help answer that question, the Dr. Marty Pets blog features a list of foods that dogs can eat like, can dogs eat grapes? Can dogs eat bananas? Popcorn? Best of all, its always being updated! Read on to learn more about the food your dog can eat.
by Dr. Marty Pets Team | Sep 21, 2021
If you’ve ever asked yourself: Can my dog eat cinnamon? you’re not alone. Cinnamon truly is the the spice of life,” whether you like sprinkling it on coffee, tossing it in with apples, or drinking it down with a cup o’ cider. Its a natural spice that can…
by Dr. Marty Pets Team | Sep 17, 2021
Pumpkin: the Unlikely Canine Superfood? Is pumpkin good for dogs? Most people only think of pumpkins as fun decorations in the fall season But did you know: This festive vegetable is a canine superfood? Pumpkins belong to the same botanical family as squash,…
by Dr. Marty Pets Team | Sep 10, 2021
Can my dog eat cheese? Have you ever been enjoying a string cheese snack, and noticed your dog staring longingly at your food? Well, thats because dogs LOVE cheese of all kinds. In fact, trainers will use it as a special treat to motivate dogs. Some veterinarians…
by Dr. Marty Goldstein | Sep 9, 2020
by Dr. Marty Goldstein | Jul 21, 2020
by Dr. Marty Pets Team | Aug 21, 2019
by Dr Marty Pets Staff | May 31, 2019
What Are Foods Are Toxic To Dogs
Several substances are highly toxic to canines. Be extremely careful and never allow your dog to consume alcohol, caffeine, or chocolate.
Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, although the type of chocolate and the amount that was consumed plays a factor. White chocolate isn’t nearly as toxic as dark chocolate, but it still contains enough fat and sugar to make your dog sick.
According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, “The toxic component of chocolate is theobromine. Humans easily metabolize theobromine, but dogs process it much more slowly, allowing it to build up to toxic levels in their system.” A larger dog can also consume more chocolate than a smaller dog before suffering negative effects.
Here is a recap of the most dangerous things that dogs should never consume:
- Alcohol
You May Like: Taste Of The Wild Vs Merrick
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.
Is Cbd Safe For Dogs
CBD may be a natural way to treat anxiety, pain, skin conditions, neurological disorders, and more. But is it effective and safe for dogs?
From the limited veterinary research performed so far, reports show that CBD is safe and effective for managing arthritis in many dogs. More research needs to be done to evaluate how CBD could help with other conditions in dogs, such as seizures.
Be sure to choose a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer. Many companies are joining the CBD hype, so the CBD product at the best price may not be the safest for your pup. Do your research before you get started.
Also, your vet understands your dogs unique needs better than you or the company selling the products, so be sure to check with them before administering. Be aware, though, that your vet is not legally allowed to recommend CBD treatment for your dog.
You May Like: Homemade Food For Dogs With Kidney Disease
Chocolate Coffee And Caffeine
Never give chocolate, coffee, or anything containing caffeine to dogs.
These products contain chemicals called methylxanthines, which are highly toxic to dogs. The chemicals can cause vomiting, an abnormal heart rate, seizures, and sometimes death.
Chocolate treats are available for dogs, but these contain a special chocolate substitute that is safe for them to eat.
Safe Human Foods You Can Share With Your Dog
Bananas make a sweet, low calorie treat for dogs in moderation.
Because our furry family members are family after all, its fun to share goodies with them every once in a while. If youre sick of learning about foods dogs cant eat and would prefer a list of foods you can share with Fido, then take a look below.
Some human foods you can safely share with your dog include:
- Carrots
- Cooked Chicken, Turkey, Beef or Pork
- Small Amounts Of Cheese
- Oranges
- And Potatoes
Remember that the above foods, while safe to share with your four-legged friend, should only be given in moderation. Dairy products, nuts, and sugary fruits especially need to be monitored as these human foods have a higher chance of causing stomach upset and digestive issues.
It is also vital to always remove pits, seeds, and cores from fruits and veggies before giving them to your dog.
We should further note that all dogs are unique. Like people, different dogs can have different sensitivities to different foods. If youre ever not sure if your dog should or shouldnt eat something, we always suggest playing it safe and keeping the food from your dog until you know for certain.
So, what do you think about sharing human food with your dog? Have you ever been tempted to share foods with your dog that you now see are on our list of foods dogs cant eat? We would love to hear from you.
Leave us your stories, thoughts and opinions in our comment section below.
Don’t Miss: Who Makes Dr Pol Dog Food
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which speed the heart rate and stimulate the nervous system. The type of chocolate, the amount your dog ingested, and your dogs weight will determine how sick your dog may become.
Ingesting too much theobromine and caffeine in chocolate may result in vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased urination, tremors, elevated heart rate, seizures, and death. Typically, the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for dogs.
Below is a list of the most to least risky chocolate for dogs:
- Cocoa powder
- White chocolate
Can Dogs Eat Grapes
Although the cause is unknown, grapes and raisins are particularly bad for dogs as they are toxic to their system. If your pet has eaten raisins or grapes they can become unwell, showing signs of vomiting and diarrhoea eating large amounts can cause severe complications and lead to renal failure.
In particular, at Christmas time, dogs are more likely to be around food like Christmas cake and fruit loaf, which contains dried fruit. Be careful to ensure this kind of food is kept out of reach and guests do not feed your pet with their leftovers.
Don’t Miss: How To Make Homemade Dog Food For Kidney Failure
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 .
Dangerous Chemicals And Additives In Food
In human food and dog food, there are lots of chemicals and additives. Even when eating whole foods that are supposed to be all-natural, there will be traces of some chemicals because of the way modern agriculture works. Some of the chemicals used can harm Pomeranians. The list includes:
Caffeine.
High levels of salt.
Xylitol .
When it comes to additives, human food may have some ingredients harmless to people but may be dangerous for dogs. Pomeranians are highly susceptible to food allergies. These typically exist because of the presence of food additives. Additives that should be avoided within human food include:
BHT .
Rendered fat.
Food dyes .
The issue with these types of chemicals and ingredients is that theyll often exist in human food, particularly today with modern cuisine. Gaining a strong understanding of the chemicals and additives in your food will help your Pomeranian when hes enjoying your leftovers. It will also help you and your family by learning what bad and good ingredients are being consumed.
Don’t Miss: Where Is Merrick Dog Food Made
Can Dogs Eat French Fries
No. A couple French fries here and there probably wont cause severe damage, but these and many other snack foods, including potato chips and pretzels, are packed with salt. Too much salt could poison your dog and potentially be fatal. Also, recent research by the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine shows that potatoes could damage a dogs heart.
Can Dogs Eat Fruit
Dogs can eat small amounts of fruit, fed as a treat. If youre giving your dog fruit, it is important that you dont feed them the core and pips. The core can be a choking hazard, whereas fruit pips contain cyanide which if fed over time can build up in your pets system and make them feel unwell.
There is a range of fruits that dogs can eat, which includes:
- Banana
- Mangos
Skin and flesh
Although fruit contains vitamin C dogs bodies produce this naturally so they dont need to supplement it within their diet. Fruit should also be fed in moderation as it contains natural sugar. In addition, fruits high in vitamin C like oranges are safe for dogs to eat, but not the peel, as this is toxic to dogs .
Recommended Reading: Iams Skin And Coat Plus Response Fp
List 1 Feed Your Pomeranian These Foods Anytime
Heres a long list of human foods you can safely share with your Pomeranians whenever you desire. It includes turkey, chicken, fish, bison, hamburger meat, venison, crawfish, shrimp, pork, beef liver, lamb, asparagus, carrots, beets, asparagus, bell peppers, green beans, kale, quinoa, rice, pasta, broccoli, cauliflower, watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, mangoes, cucumber, lettuce, blueberries, eggs, kiwi fruit, plums, pineapple, lettuce, honeydew melon, cantaloupe, peanuts, peanut butter, cheese, honey, cottage cheese, apples, bananas, yams, potatoes, peas, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, zucchini, nectarines, peaches, pears, blueberries, cashews, nectarines, apples and eggs.
After reading that long list of foods, youll see its not so bad because most of them are natural whole foods. People and many animals find these foods delicious so its not hard to get a good balance to ensure that people maintain good health and help their animals also keep healthy.
Is Your Dog Diabetic
If your dog is diabetic and will not eat, this could be an indication that something is seriously wrong. Ask your veterinarian what they recommend doing if your dog wont eat at the time of your dogs diagnosis.
As a general rule, dogs should not be given as insulin if they arent eating, as this can cause dangerously low hypoglycemia. If your veterinarian advised you to give a half dose of insulin if your dog skips one meal, do so, but alert your veterinarian immediately if your dog skips another meal.
If your diabetic dog skips a meal, is lethargic, nonresponsive, or vomiting or having diarrhea, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately, as this could be an indication of hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, both of which are life-threatening if not treated right away.
Don’t Miss: Dr Pol Dog Treats
Flour And Raw Yeast Dough
The first issue with flour and dough is the way these two baking substances expand. This could lead to injury to your dogs stomach if consumed.
Secondly, raw yeast dough can produce alcohol when it ferments. This could lead to alcohol poisoning, and death, making this seemingly innocuous substance incredibly dangerous.
Human Foods Dogs Can And Can Not Eat
Dog Care, What Can My Dog Eat?
Sharing food is a universal way to bond with loved ones, including pets. However, some foods that are perfectly safe for people to eat can be toxic or unsafe for dogs and cats. Be sure you know what foods are safe to share with pets before offering your four-legged friend a bite off your plate.
Toxic ingestion emergencies: If your dog has eaten something poisonous, call or visit your local veterinarian or emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Pet Poison Helpline:
Also Check: Iams Prostora Max Gi
Foods You Should Never Feed Your Pomeranians
Now we have 3 lists to help manage the types of human food you can always feed your Pomeranians, the ones they could eat sometimes, and the food that you may choose to give your Pomeranians occasionally. This final list is human foods that your Pomeranians must NEVER eat under any circumstances because they can harm your Pomeranians at best and be deadly at worst.
List 4 foods include: macadamias, walnuts, pecans, grapes , currants, raisins, chives, leeks, shallots, garlic, onions, chocolate, coffee grounds, anything containing caffeine, cinnamon, wild mushrooms, cherries, seeds, fruit pits, tomato sauce, yeast dough, anything with xylitol, and all restaurant food.
Coffee Tea Other Caffeine Products
Coffee grounds and coffee beans, tea as well as soda and energy drinks can be dangerous for dogs.
The Pet Poison Helpline, a national licensed animal poison center, explains: “Pets are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than people are. While one to two laps of coffee, tea or soda will not contain enough caffeine to cause poisoning in most pets, the ingestion of moderate amounts of coffee grounds, tea bags or 1-2 diet pills can easily cause death in small dogs or cats.”
Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include “mild to severe hyperactivity, restlessness, vomiting, tachycardia , hypertension , abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, hyperthermia seizures, and collapse,” within one to two hours of exposure, the center notes.
Read Also: Iams Veterinary Formula Skin And Coat Plus Response Fp
Can Dogs Eat Nuts
While many fruits and vegetables offer safe, healthy alternatives to store-bought treats, there are few types of nuts safe for dogs to eat. They may provide fatty acids, but most have an excessively high-fat content that can lead to weight gain upon regular consumption. Many types of nuts are simply not suitable for your dog to eat because they can lead to blockages, choking, and other physical hazards.
Keep in mind that dogs cannot eat walnuts or pistachios because they can carry a mold that produces aflatoxin. This can cause severe damage to your dogs body, resulting in potentially lethal liver failure. Also, never feed dogs macadamia nuts, which are naturally toxic to canines.
Most canine nutritionists suggest you go with fruits, vegetables, or lean meats when giving dogs human food as an occasional treat. However, if you want to toss a few to your four-legged friend during snack time, here are your best options:
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.
Read Also: Where To Buy Pedigree Dog Food