Toxic Foods

Many dogs are greedy opportunists and will steal any food within reach. There are however many common human foods that are toxic to dogs.

All members of the onion family e.g. garlic and chives are toxic if eaten raw or cooked. They can cause gut irritation resulting in vomiting and diarrhoea and in high doses can damage red blood cells leading to anaemia, the consequences of which may not be seen for a few days following ingestion. The symptoms of anaemia are lethargy, weakness and pale gums. If you suspect your dog has eaten onions, then your vet will advise bringing them to the surgery to make them sick. Most dogs will make a full recovery, but ingestion of large amounts can be fatal.

Human chocolate contains a compound called theobromine which can’t be broken down by dogs, so it leads to poisoning by affecting the heart and nervous system. The darker the chocolate the more theobromine it contains so the more dangerous it is. Symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, increased thirst, panting and in extreme cases seizures. Contact your vet immediately and let them know the type and amount of chocolate eaten and the weight of your dog, they can then do a calculation to work out the toxicity risk, if medium to high then they will advise seeing your dog to induce vomiting. Again in large quantities it can be fatal.

Macadamia nuts are poisonous to dogs. Symptoms start within 3-6 hours of ingestion and starts with vomiting and diarrhoea which progresses to incoordination, joint stiffness and muscle tremors. There is also a high risk of pancreatitis due to the high fat content of the nuts. Ideally vomiting should be induced as soon as possible but if signs of pancreatitis have already started then the dog may need to be admitted for more intensive treatment. Most dogs make a full recovery although chronic pancreatitis can persist.

Although the sweetcorn on corn on the cob is safe to eat, dogs should never be given the whole cob. The fibrous core can’t be digested and frequently causes a blockage in the small intestine- often requiring surgery to remove it.

Avocado contains persin which is in all parts of the fruit and causes vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. The flesh also has a high fat content which can cause pancreatitis.

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener often used in sugar free gum and drinks. Symptoms occur 30 minutes after ingestion as it is rapidly absorbed into the blood stream. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar levels leading to vomiting, lethargy, collapse, seizures and coma. Just one stick of chewing gum could make your dog very ill and many require hospitalisation for intravenous therapy to avoid blood sugar levels dropping. Liver failure can also result from ingestion.

Alcohol is highly toxic to dogs - small amount can cause vomiting, lethargy, seizures, coma and long-term liver and brain damage. Due to its rapid absorption, affects can be seen 20 minutes after ingestion.

Raw bones are an excellent way to keep dogs occupied and their teeth clean however cooked bones should be avoided. They can splinter and perforate the intestines leading to peritonitis and septicaemia. In large amount they can cause a blockage and constipation.

Grapes and raisins contain an unknown substance which can lead to liver and kidney failure even in small amounts. Some dogs are more sensitive than others and because of the unpredictable reaction it is advised that all dogs are made to vomit as soon after ingestion as possible.