Can My Yorkie Eat Avocados?

The Yorkshire terrier is a small breed of dog not to exceed 7 lbs, which was originally bred to catch rats in clothing mills. Several commercially prepared diets intended for smaller breeds of dogs are available, from kibble to organic and raw diets. And, since the breed's acceptance into the United States as a companion pet, dog owners have become knowledgeable with what foods are safe for Yorkshire terriers as well as those foods that are toxic. Avocados are on the toxic list.

  1. Toxic Vegetables and Fruits

    • Avocados are toxic to Yorkshire terriers in all forms.

      Some foods that contain avocados are guacamole and Mexican side dishes. Symptoms of ingestion include tremors, vomiting and heart congestion. Onions, garlic and chives and foods that contain them are also off limits to Yorkshire terriers, such as flavored chips, crackers and cheese spreads. Meat and poultry seasonings also may contain onions and garlic derivatives. Side effects of ingesting onion and garlic products include gastrointestinal upset and red blood cell damage. Additionally, fruits and fruit derivatives made from raisins and grapes such as bread and cereals cause kidney damage.

    Toxic Foods

    • Raw meats including fish and chicken are toxic to Yorkshire terriers because of the potential bacteria that are normally present in raw meat and killed when food is prepared to the correct temperature. Raw eggs are toxic because of the possibility of salmonella poisoning, and dairy products including milk and cheese are toxic because canines are lactose intolerant. Chocolate causes abnormal heart rhythms, yeast dough causes intestinal rupture and salt results in tremors.

    Toxic Food Additives

    • Xylitol is a sweetener used in candy, baking, toothpaste and other foods and is extremely toxic to all dogs. Artificial sweeteners cause the body to release insulin and lead to fatal liver damage. Other sugar substitutes and any food or drink that contains them are also toxic to dogs. Symptoms of overdose include seizures and loss of coordination. Mild symptoms include gastrointestinal upset and lethargy. Macadamia nuts found in cookies and snack mixes cause tremors and gastrointestinal upset as well.

    Considerations

    • Foods that are toxic in forms such as pure milk and whole garlic that are listed as an ingredient in commercially prepared dog foods are added in small, nontoxic levels and are processed under guidelines to prevent toxicity to pets. Generally, all products that include any toxin such as plain salt on potato chips and salsa with onions are not safe either, as they do contain toxic amounts. Dog treats are a safe option and they come in many different flavors and textures.