What Products Are Harmful to Dogs?

Dogs are great companions and are valuable members of our families. To grow and stay healthy, they need exercise, a lot of love, the proper diet and a safe place to live and play. Their food should be specially formulated for them and the area where they live, and play should be free and clear of hazardous household products that may injure or harm them.

  1. Chocolate

    • Chocolate bars, especially dark chocolate, and products that include chocolate contain theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic to dogs. Depending on the type of chocolate and the amount ingested, these two chemicals may cause muscle tremors, irregular heart rhythm and in some cases seizures. Consult your veterinarian if your dog exhibits any of these signs if they have been exposed to chocolate.

    Animal Bones

    • Dogs enjoy chewing bones and the bones play a large role in helping to remove tartar and plaque build-up on their teeth. However, cooked bones from turkey and chicken legs, ham or pork bones should not be given to your pet. When these bones are cooked they become brittle and develop sharp edges. The sharp edges can puncture the lining of the intestinal tract of your dog and cause serious health problems. The bones can also become lodged in the animal's teeth, causing them to choke. Check with your veterinarian about safe, nutritional dental bones made from natural products.

    Mosquito Repellent

    • Humans and animals both need protection against mosquito bites. Mosquito repellents, containing a chemical called DEET is often used by humans, but this product is not recommended for use on your dog. If the product comes in contact with your dog's skin, his eyes and or is ingested while he licks his fur, he may develop neurological problems and exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, tremors, increased salivation, lethargy and even seizures. Talk to a veterinarian about a mosquito repellent that is safe and suitable for your pet.

    Bleach or Detergents

    • Bleach is a common product found in most homes for cleaning and sanitizing, and it can be extremely hazardous to dogs. Your dog can become nauseous if it consumes a small dose of this product. Larger doses can affect your animal's esophagus and mucous membranes quickly and cause your animal to drool and have severe abdominal pain. Your animal can experience difficulty breathing if it inhales this product, and it may also exhibit such behavior as stumbling, tremors or even seizures. Keep this product in a safe place and out of the reach of your dogs and other pets.