Dangerous Foods & Spices for Dogs

Do not give into the begging at the table or desire to treat your dog to table scraps, because human food and spices found in everyday meals can cause your dog serious harm or even death. Always use caution when cooking and avoid dropping potentially harmful food on the floor. Keep the dog out of the kitchen, and if your dog gets into a harmful food call a veterinarian immediately.

  1. Avocados

    • Avocados contain persin. Persin causes dogs to have diarrhea, dry heaves, labored breathing and possibly heart problems. The reaction depends on the dogs sensitivity and overall allergy to persin. Every part of the fruit is toxic including the stem, leaves, skin and pit.

    Salt

    • Salt causes an electrolyte imbalance in dogs. Dogs will have excessive thirst and urinate frequently. More seriously, if the dog ingests a large amount of salt, he may suffer from salt poisoning. The symptoms of salt poisoning are vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and a fever.

    Chocolate

    • Chocolate contains high amounts of caffeine and theobromine, which affect the heart and nervous system. It can ultimately kill your dog if large amounts are ingested. The guideline for a toxic amount of chocolate is 1 pound of chocolate to every 10 pounds of dog weight. If a small morsel of chocolate is ingested, contact a veterinarian immediately but know that it takes a significant amount to do permanent damage.

    Onion and Garlic Powder

    • Onion and garlic powder sulfoxides and disulfides are dangerous to dogs. Dogs cannot metabolize these spices and could cause them to become anemic. These spices have a concentrated amount of toxins. Whole onions and garlic cloves are also dangerous.