Common Human Foods Your Dog Should Avoid

Most of us can admit to sneaking a few pieces of food from our dinner plates to the nearby dog and it seems perfectly harmless, but is that really the case?

As a dog owner it’s extremely important to know as much as you can about your dog's diet and what's good for them, and this doesn't just relate to dog food. There are human foods that can be extremely toxic to dogs and should always be avoided. 

1. Chocolate 

Why it’s harmful: Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolise properly.

Symptoms of ingestion: Vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and even death in severe cases.

What to do if consumed: Seek immediate veterinary care.

2. Avocados

Why it’s harmful: Avocados contain a toxin called persin, which can lead towards heart damage in large amounts. The pit can also pose a choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage.

Symptoms of ingestion: Vomiting, diarrhoea, and difficulty breathing in extreme

What to do if consumed: Contact your vet, especially if the pit was ingested

3. Caffeine

Why it’s harmful: Like chocolate, caffeine contains stimulants that are toxic to dogs' heartbeat.

Symptoms of ingestion: Hyperactivity, restlessness, rapid breathing, and muscle tremors.

What to do if consumed: Contact your vet for guidance.

4. Onions and Garlic

Why it’s harmful: Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolise properly.

Symptoms of ingestion: Vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and even death in severe cases.

What to do if consumed: Seek immediate veterinary care.

5. Grapes and Raisins

Why it’s harmful: Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolise properly.

Symptoms of ingestion: Vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and even death in severe cases.

What to do if consumed: Seek immediate veterinary care.

6. Macadamia Nuts 

Why it’s harmful: Even a small amount of macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia.

Symptoms of ingestion:  Lethargy, vomiting, tremors, and increased body temperature.

What to do if consumed: Visit the vet immediately.

Other Common Foods To Avoid

Some other foods you should not feed your dog are fat trimmings, cat food, corn cobs and cooked bones. It is important to know what is and isn't okay for your pets. Not all exact toxic amounts are known for each of these so it is best to play it safe and avoid them all together!

What Can My Dog Eat?

Not all human food is bad for our pets though, we know we like to share a crumb or two with them so what can they have that's safe!

Carrots, apples and peanut butter are great for dogs! Not only are they a tasty treat for them but they are beneficial to their health too. Carrots and apples are a great source of fibre for dogs, they can be given raw and in slices or small cubes. Peanut butter is a known crown favourite with dogs. It contains healthy fats, protein, and vitamins B and E.

Human food that works wonders for a dog with an upset tummy are cooked chicken, pumpkin and plain yoghurt. Mixing these three ingredients is a great meal to ease a tummy ache in some dogs.

Other foods that are safe for dogs are Blueberries, Kumara, Green Beans, Eggs, Watermelon (seedless) and Oatmeal.

Want to incorporate more human food in your dog's diet?

Including other food and ingredients in your dog's diet is a great way to boost their health, but not everyone knows where to start.

We offer a wide range of pet friendly recipes on our website that are easy to follow! 

Remember to be sure about what foods are safe for your dogs and if you ever have any concerns you should consult with your veterinarian.