ASPCA List of Toxic Foods for Dogs

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has compiled a list of 11 "people" foods that owners should steer their dogs clear of. Most of these foods are toxic to dogs.

  1. Chocolate, Coffee, Caffeine

    • Methylxanthine is a substance found in some foods that contain caffeine. Chocolate is such a food, as are beverages such as coffee and some sodas. If ingested by a dog, methylxanthines can cause problems as minor as vomiting and diarrhea or as serious as death.

    Alcohol

    • Drinking alcohol can cause your dog to experience many of the same impairments a human would, and has the potential to place your dog in a coma. Death is a possibility.

    Avocado

    • An avocado can make your dog ill.

      Avocados are more dangerous for such animals as rodents and birds. However, the fruit contains persin, which is known to cause vomiting and diarrhea and sometimes death in dogs.

    Macadamia Nuts

    • Complications from eating macadamia nuts can include depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia.

    Grapes

    • The toxic ingredient in grapes is a mystery.

      Though the toxic substance in grapes is unknown, ingesting the fruit can lead to kidney failure in dogs.

    Yeast Dough

    • The ASPCA states that it is OK to give your dog small amounts of cooked bread, but uncooked dough is dangerous. Uncooked dough will continue to expand inside your dog's digestive system, sometimes causing internal organs to rupture.

    Raw Meat, Eggs, Bones

    • Raw meat can contain E. coli and Salmonella and, according to the ASPCA, dogs are just as susceptible to the harmful bacteria as humans.

      Raw eggs contain a enzyme called avidin that can lead to skin and coat problems.

      Contrary to popular belief, feeding bones to your your dog isn't necessarily a good idea. Bones can splinter and become lodged in or puncture your pet's digestive tract.

    Xylitol

    • Xylitol is a dangerous substance for dogs. It is used in many items made for humans, such as gum, candy, baked goods and toothpaste. In dogs, xylitol can increase their insulin levels and create a diabetic reaction. Your dog might have a seizure, go into a coma or die.

    Onions, Garlic, Chives

    • Small amounts of onions are OK for dogs.

      Onions, garlic and chives must be ingested in large amounts to have a negative effect on a dog. In fact, some dog foods and treats contain these ingredients in small quantities. If consumed heavily, however, these foods can damage red blood cells.

    Milk

    • Milk can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea but nothing more serious.

    Salt

    • In small amounts it will do no harm, but excessive salt intake by your dog can lead to serious complications, even death.