Top 10 foods your dog should never get their paws on 🐾

Whenever you’re eating, you can be sure your dog is not too far away. More than likely, they’re at your feet giving you those outrageously powerful puppy dog eyes. Just a nibble won’t hurt to give them right? 

Well actually, there are many everyday foods that could be harmful to your dog if ingested. Some, you’re likely to be aware of but others may surprise you. 

We’ve put together a list of 10 particularly dangerous foods that should be kept well away from your pooch. 

1. Chocolate 

Most Pawrents will be familiar with this one but  we’re going to highlight it anyway as chocolate is equally enticing to dogs as it is to us hoomans so we need to be cautious not to leave it lying around. Why? Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine which is Toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure if consumed. Dark chocolate contains the highest content of this toxic substance and can be particularly dangerous, however chocolate of all types contains sugars and fats that can also make your dog sick so it’s best to keep chocolate away altogether… All the more for you!

2. The Onion Family 

This delicious family of shallots, garlic, leeks, chives and onions of all types contain a toxic principle known as N-propyl disulfide which causes damage to red blood cells. This reduces the ability to carry oxygen around the body and result in hemolytic anaemia. All parts of the onion family are toxic to dogs whether raw, cooked or powdered. Signs of illness may not be displayed straight away but if your dog has ingested a member of the onion family you should look out for symptoms such as Lethargy, Weakness, decreased appetite, fainting, pale gums or red tinted urine. 

3. Grapes & raisins

These popular sweet snacks contain an unknown toxin that can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure. Raisins are a common ingredient in many baked treats so be extra careful with cakes and mince pies around Christmas time.

4. Cooked Bones

It’s commonly known that dogs should never eat ‘chicken bones’ however cooked bones of all kinds are actually extremely dangerous if consumed by dogs as they splinter easily, causing constipation and in some cases perforation of the gut which can be fatal. Raw bones on the other hand are great chew treat that help maintain healthy gums and teeth, provide added nutrition and help cleanse your dog’s digestive tract.

5. Coffee

Most of us can’t survive without our morning brew and sometimes our furry friends can’t resist a lick too. A couple of slurps  is unlikely to cause any poisoning in your pooch however ingestion of unused coffee grounds or beans can cause serious toxicity. 

6. Avocado 

This brunch staple should probably be left off your dogs menu. Avocados contain persin which in small amounts shouldn’t be toxic for your dog but can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and myocardial damage. Avocado’s also have a high fat content so should be avoided by dogs who suffer from pancreatitis. 

7. Alcohol 

Dogs cannot metabolise alcohol in the same way humans can. Even small quantities can lead to sickness, diarrhoea and central nervous system damage. Luckily dogs are generally not attracted to alcoholic beverages but keep them out of reach just in case. 

8. Nuts

Not all nuts are bad, Peanuts are technically part of the legume family and are safe for dogs in small quantities, provided they are unsalted and unseasoned. Cashews are also a safe snack for dogs when consumed in moderation. Macadamia nuts are the most dangerous of all nuts for dogs, containing a toxin that affects muscles and the nervous system, resulting in weakness, swollen limbs and panting.

9. Xylitol 

What on earth is this? Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that can be found in many sweet treats, in particular, low fat, diet and sugar-free drinks. This sweetener causes an insulin increase that can cause dogs to go into hypoglycaemia which is linked to liver failure, seizures and blood clotting. Xylitol can be harmful, even in small quantities so make sure you check the ingredients before treating your pup.

10. Corn on the cob

While corn itself is not dangerous for dogs, the cob could potentially be fatal if ingested by your pooch as it can easily cause a blockage in your dog’s intestine.

So what do you do if your pooch gets their paws on one of these toxic foods? 

We would advise contacting your vet immediately to seek their advice. Although this may seem excessive, your dog's health and happiness is the priority for us all. It’s always better to err on the side of caution :) 

Oscar’s Farm Fresh pressed recipes and healthy treats are carefully considered to ensure they contain none of these dangerous foods or added nasties. They are nutritionally complete so no extra supplements are required to keep them fit and healthy.