What foods should I avoid with dogs

People Foods Dogs Can and Cant Eat

Dedicated dog lovers tend to be very kind people. We share our hearts and homes (and for some lucky pups, even the foot of our beds) with our canine pals. Surely there is nothing wrong with sharing our favorite people foods with our dogs too, right? Not necessarily. Many of the foods, such as fruits and vegetables, that people digest just fine can wreak havoc on a dogs body, causing severe health problems. On the other hand, some of the foods people eat can be introduced to a dogs diet just fine, and even provide health benefits such as joint strength, better breath, and allergy immunity.

But before giving your dog foods thatyoucrave, read on and learn which foods are safe, and which can send your dog straight to the emergency vet. And always be mindful that even healthy foods fed in excess can lead to canine obesity, a major health concern for U.S. dogs. Always choose a quality dog food as your dogs main diet.

Human Food Safety for Dogs

Almonds: No, dogs shouldnt eat almonds. Almonds may not necessarily be toxic to dogs like macadamia nuts are, but they can block the esophagus or even tear the windpipe if not chewed completely. Salted almonds are especially dangerous because they can increase water retention, which is potentially fatal to dogs prone to heart disease.

Bread:Yes, dogs can eat bread. Small amounts of plain bread (no spices and definitely no raisins) wont hurt your dog, but it also wont provide any health benefits either. It has no nutritional value and can really pack on the carbohydrates and calories, just like in people. Homemade breads are a better option than store-bought, as bread from the grocery store typically contains unnecessary preservatives, but its best to avoid it altogether.

Cashews:Yes, dogs can eat cashews. Cashews are OK for dogs, but only a few at a time. Theyve got calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and proteins, but while these nuts contain less fat than others, too many can lead to weight gain and other fat-related conditions. A few cashews make a nice treat, but only if theyre unsalted.

Cheese:Yes, dogs can eat cheese in small to moderate quantities. As long as your dog isnt lactose intolerant, which is rare, but still possible in canines, cheese can be a great treat. Many kinds of cheese can be high in fat, so go for lower-fat varieties like cottage cheese or mozzarella. Many dogs enjoy their very own dog-specific Himalayan dog chew made of dried cheese (but we dont recommend sharing it).

Chocolate:No, dogs should never eat chocolate. This isnt just an urban legend. Chocolate contains toxic substances called methylxanthines, which are stimulants that stop a dogs metabolic process. Even just a little bit of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, can causediarrheaandvomiting. A large amount can cause seizures, irregular heart function, and even death. Do not have chocolate in an accessible location for your dog. If your dog does ingest chocolate, contact a veterinarian orPet Poison Helplineas soon as possible.

Cinnamon: No, dogs shouldnt eat cinnamon. While cinnamon is not actually toxic to dogs, its probably best to avoid it. Cinnamon and its oils can irritate the inside of dogs mouths, making them uncomfortable and sick. It can lower a dogs blood sugar too much and can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, increased, or decreased heart rate, and even liver disease. If they inhale it in powder form, cinnamon can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and choking.

Coconut: Yes, coconut is OK for dogs. This funky fruit contains lauric acid, which can help combat bacteria and viruses. It can also help with bad breath and clearing up skin conditions like hot spots, flea allergies, and itchy skin. Coconut milk and coconut oil are safe for dogs too. Just be sure your dog doesnt get its paws on the furry outside of the shell, which can get lodged in the throat.

Corn:Yes, dogs can eat corn. Corn is one of the most common ingredients in most dog foods. However, the cob can be hard for a dog to digest and may cause an intestinal blockage, so if youre sharing some corn, make sure it is off the cob. (Or just opt for a squeaky corn toy instead.)

Eggs: Yes,dogs can eat eggs. Eggs are safe for dogs as long as they are fully cooked. Cooked eggs are a wonderful source of protein and can help an upset stomach. However, eating raw egg whites can contribute to biotin deficiency, so be sure to cook the eggs all the way through before giving them to your pet.

Fish:Yes, dogs can eat fish. Fish contains good fats and amino acids, giving your dog a nice health boost. Salmon and sardines are especially beneficial salmon because its loaded with vitamins and protein, and sardines because they have soft, digestible bones for extra calcium. With the exception of sardines, be sure to pick out all the tiny bones, which can be tedious but is definitely necessary. Never feed your dog uncooked or undercooked fish, only fully cooked and cooled, and limit your dogs fish intake to no more than twice a week.

Garlic: No, dogs shouldnt eat garlic. Like onions, leeks, and chives, garlic is part of the Allium family, and it is five times more toxic to dogs than the rest of the Allium plants. Garlic can create anemia in dogs, causing side effects such as pale gums, elevated heart rate, weakness, and collapse. Poisoning from garlic and onions may have delayed symptoms, so if you think your dog may have eaten some, monitor him or her for a few days, not just right after consumption.

Ham: Yes, dogs can eat ham. Ham is OK for dogs to eat, but certainly isnt the healthiest for them. Ham is high in sodium and fat, so while sharing a small piece is all right, it shouldnt be a continuous habit.

Honey: Yes, dogs can eat honey. Honey is packed with countless nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, and antioxidants. Feeding dogs small amounts of honey can help with allergies because it introduces small amounts of pollen to their systems, building up immunity to allergens in your area. In addition to consuming honey, the sticky spread can also be used as a topical treatment for burns and superficial cuts.

Ice cream:No, dogs shouldnt eat ice cream. As refreshing of a treat as ice cream is, it contains lots of sugar so it is best not to share with your dog. Also, some dogs have an intolerance to lactose. To avoid the milk altogether, freeze chunks of strawberries, raspberries, apples, and pineapples to give to your dog as a sweet, icy treat.

Macadamia nuts: No, dogs should never eat macadamia nuts. These are some of the most poisonous foods for dogs. Macadamia nuts, part of the Protaceae family, can cause vomiting, increased body temperature, inability to walk, and lethargy. Even worse, they can affect the nervous system. Never feed your dog macadamia nuts.

Milk:Yes, dogs can have milk. But be cautious. Some dogs are lactose-intolerant and dont digest milk well. While it is OK for dogs to have a little milk, owners should be cognizant of the symptoms of lactose-intolerance and might want to stick to giving their dogs water.

Peanut butter: Yes, peanut butter is OK for dogs. Peanut butter can be an excellent source of protein for dogs. It contains heart-healthy fats, vitamins B and E and niacin. Raw, unsalted peanut butter is the healthiest option. Read the label carefully to be sure the peanut butter does not containxylitol, a sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs.

Peanuts:Yes, dogs can eat peanuts. Unlike almonds, peanuts are safe for dogs to eat. Theyre packed with good fats and proteins that can benefit your dog. Just be sure to give peanuts in moderation, as you dont want your dog taking in too much fat, which can lead to pancreas issues. Also, avoid salted peanuts. Too much salt is hard for dogs to process.

Popcorn: Yes, dogs can eat popcorn. Unsalted, unbuttered, air-popped popcorn is OK for your dog in moderation. It contains riboflavin and thiamine, both of which promote eye health and digestion, as well as small amounts of iron and protein. Be sure to pop the kernels all the way before giving them to your dog, as unpopped kernels could become a choking hazard.

Pork: Yes, dogs can eat pork. Pork isa highly digestible protein, packed with amino acids, and it contains more calories per pound than other meats. Pork also may be less likely to cause an allergic reaction in some pets compared to other proteins.

Quinoa:Yes, quinoa is OK for dogs. You can now find quinoa in some high-quality dry dog foods. The strong nutritional profile of quinoa makes it a healthy alternative to corn, wheat, and soy starches that are often used to make kibble.

Salmon:Yes, dogs can eat salmon. As mentioned above, fully cooked salmon is an excellent source of protein, good fats, and amino acids. It promotes joint and brain health and gives dog-immune systems a nice boost. However, raw or undercooked salmon contains parasites that can make dogs very sick, causing vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and, in extreme cases, even death. Be sure to cook salmon all the way through (the FDA recommends at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit) and the parasites should cook out.

Shrimp:Yes, shrimp is OK for dogs. A few shrimp every now and then is fine for your dog, but only if they are fully cooked and the shell (including the tail, head, and legs) is removed completely. Shrimp are high in antioxidants, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus, but also low in fat, calories, and carbohydrates.

Tuna:Yes, dogs can eat tuna, but only in small amounts. In moderation, cooked, fresh tuna is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promotes heart and eye health. As for canned tuna, it contains small amounts of mercury and sodium, which should be avoided in excess. A little bit of canned tuna and tuna juice here and there is fine prepared only in water, not oil as long as it doesnt contain any spices.

Turkey:Yes, dogs can eat turkey. Turkey is fine for dogs, but be sure to remove excess fat and skin from the meat. Dont forget to check for bones; poultry bones can splinter during digestion, causing blockage or even tears in the intestines. Any meat with excessive salt, seasonings, onions or garlic should not be fed.

Wheat/grains:Yes, dogs can eat wheat and other grains. Dogs do not have to be grain-free; it is perfectly OK for them to have grains. In fact, grains like wheat and corn are great sources of protein, essential fatty acids, and fiber. If your dog has certain allergies, however, it might be best to avoid grains, but it truly depends on your dog. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Yogurt:Yes, yogurt is OK for dogs. Plain yogurt is a perfectly acceptable snack for dogs. However, some dogs may have trouble digesting dairy products. If your dog can digest it, the active bacteria in yogurt can help strengthen the digestive system with probiotics. Plain yogurt is the best choice. Avoid any yogurts with added sugar, and skip all yogurt with artificial sweeteners.

What Can Dogs NOT Eat?

As you sit down for dinner, your dog plops by your side, waiting for a bite. You may know that some human foods are safe to share while others are toxic to dogs or best kept to a minimum. But which are which? Here are some common food dogs should not eat.

Food That Is Toxic for Dogs

If your dog has eaten any of the items on this list, a phone calland likely a visitto a veterinarian is needed.

1. Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine

All of these products contain substances called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds. When ingested by a dog, methylxanthines can result in:

These toxins are dose-dependent, meaning small dogs or dogs who consume a large amount are more sensitive. When considering chocolate toxicity, the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is (with baking chocolate having the highest concentration of methylxanthines and white chocolate the least).

If your dog eats chocolate, coffee, or anything containing caffeine, call the vet immediately to talk about next steps.

2. Xylitol

Xylitol is used as a sweetener in many products, such as candies, gum, and even toothpaste. Its also extremely toxic to dogs.

Xylitol can result in insulin release, which ultimately can lead to liver failure. This insulin release lowers the blood sugar, and affected animals may vomit, have seizures, or show signs of lethargy and loss of coordination.

3. Macadamia Nuts

Many people delight in adding macadamia nuts to their recipes; these crunchy, slightly oily nuts add flavor and texture. However, dogs should never eat them.

It is unknown what component of the nut is toxic, but we do know that even a small number of macadamia nuts can result in weakness, vomiting, tremors, depression, and elevated body temperature in dogs.

4. Grapes and Raisins

Grapes are capable of causing fatal kidney failure in dogs. The exact root of the toxin has not been found, and some dogs who have safely eaten grapes in the past have been subsequently poisoned. Its best to consider grapes and raisins toxic and avoid feeding them to your dog entirely.

5. Garlic, Onions, and Chives

Although cats are more sensitive, dogs can be affected by eating products from the Allium group: garlic, onions, chives, leeks, and related plants.

Sulfur-containing compounds in these plants can affect red blood cells, resulting in a form of anemia called Heinz body anemia. This can result in weakness, exercise intolerance, depression, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in respiratory and heart rate, red urine, collapse, and death.

6. Alcohol

Although most dogs arent crazy about the taste of alcohol, some dogs will drink it if offered. But this is definitely a no-no.

All alcoholic beverages have the potential to cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, loss of coordination, tremors, coma, and even death in dogs. Keep all alcohol and products containing alcohol out of reach of your pup.

7. Yeast Dough

While most fully baked bread is fine for dogs to eat, yeast dough can cause large amounts of gas to accumulate in the intestinal tract. This is not only painful for dogs, but it can also lead to a potentially fatal condition called gastric bloat and torsion.

Additionally, the yeast in bread dough produces ethanol, which can cause your dog to become intoxicated, similar to signs you might see with alcohol ingestion. Even small amounts of yeast-containing dough can be problematic for dogs.

Other Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs

Though some foods arent considered toxic for dogs, they can still cause problems. These foods are best avoided, even if your pup has previously eaten them with no signs of side effects.

If your dog does eat any of the items below and does show signs of illness, contact your veterinarian right away.

1. Milk and Dairy Products

We tend to think of dairy as part of a balanced diet, but this isnt the case for our canine friends. Many dairy products are high in fat, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset in dogs and trigger inflammation in the pancreasa condition called pancreatitiswhich can be severe or even fatal.

Additionally, many animals lack the enzyme lactase, which helps break down the sugars in dairy products. Dogs who ingest dairy can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal upset.

2. Salt and Salty Snacks

Although a large amount of salt is indeed considered a toxin, most dogs are not likely to eat salt or salty snacks in a large enough quantity to be poisoned. However, dogs who are prone to high blood pressure or have heart or kidney disease are more sensitive to the effects of salt.

Salty foods can lead to excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and depression. In severe cases, these signs can progress to tremors, seizures, and death. So, while the occasional potato chip dropped on the floor is unlikely to cause a problem, it shouldnt be a regular part of your dogs diet.

3. Raw Meat, Raw Eggs, and Bones

Although many people feel these are natural foods for dogs to eat, they should be avoided. Raw meat and eggs may contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. These can make your dog (and you!) sick.

Raw eggs also have an enzyme called avidin that can decrease the absorption of some B vitamins, leading to skin and coat problems.

Bones can lead to choking, intestinal blockage, or intestinal perforation.

4. Citrus

If eaten in large amounts, the essential oils in citrus may cause gastrointestinal irritation as well as central nervous system depression in dogs. The peels, seeds, and leaves tend to contain larger amounts. An occasional snack of lemons, limes, and oranges is likely not to be a problem, but these fruits shouldnt be a regular part of your dogs diet.

5. Coconut and Coconut Oil

Although small amounts of coconut-containing products are not likely to cause serious harm to your dog, they may trigger diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, coconut water is high in potassium, which could cause electrolyte problems in dogs who have heart or kidney problems.

6. Nuts

Some nuts are safer for dogs than others. But all are high in calories, and many are high in oils and fats that can potentially trigger vomiting, diarrhea, and life-threatening pancreatitis.

Macadamia nuts and black walnutsare toxic to dogs and should be completely avoided. Almonds and pecans are not toxic but should also be avoided. Other nuts should be fed in limited amounts and with cautionand only after researching their safety.

What Foods Can Dogs Eat?

Some human foods are generally considered safe for dogs. But when sharing with your pup, always do so in small amounts (less than 10% of your pets daily calories) and after talking with your veterinarian.

Some dog-safe foods are:

• Fruits: apples, bananas, watermelon, blueberries, raspberries, pineapple

• Vegetables: broccoli, green beans, cooked potatoes and sweet potatoes, zucchini, carrots, cooked pumpkin, peas

• Meats: cooked chicken, turkey, beef, and salmon

• Grains: cooked rice, cooked pasta, cooked oatmeal

• Nuts and dairy: cooked eggs, plain yogurt, cottage cheese, xylitol-free peanut butter

Keep in mind that commercial dog food is well-balanced to meet the needs of your pup; overfeeding a dog people foods can upset this balance and result in malnutrition. So stick with safe human foods and keep them in small amounts.

Featured Image: iStock/Moyo Studio