Foods That Dogs Are Allergic To

Many foods that are harmless to humans can cause allergic or toxic reactions in dogs. The symptoms of these reactions can vary from mild irritation to coma and even death. If you suspect that your dog has eaten something harmful, your veterinarian can advise you on what steps to take.

  1. Fruits and Vegetables

    • Dogs are allergic to grapes and raisins. Grapes and raisins have a toxin in them that causes serious kidney damage. Some of the symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. If you suspect that your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Your veterinarian will recommend that you try to get the dog to vomit. She will treat the dog with activated charcoal, which is a powdered charcoal that prevents the dog's body from absorbing the toxins. She will also flush out the dog's stomach and monitor him for signs of kidney damage, according to Pet Education.

      Dogs should not eat avocados. The ASPCA warns that avocados contain a toxin called persin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Several other foods that should not be eaten are onions, chives and garlic. Dogs do not have the enzymes in their stomachs that are needed to digest these foods. Large amounts can cause stomach irritation and can damage their blood cells.

    Chocolate

    • The Doctors Foster and Smith website indicates that dogs are dangerously allergic to chocolate. Chocolate contains a toxin called methylxanthine, which is produced by combining another toxic substance called theobromine, with caffeine. Some of the symptoms of chocolate poisoning are increased urination, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, coma and eventually death. Most of these symptoms surface within six to 12 hours after the dog has ingested the chocolate. A veterinarian can flush out the dog's stomach, administer charcoal and monitor the animal's heart rate. If the dog is treated within six to 12 hours of ingesting the chocolate, its chances of recovery are good.

    Xylitol

    • Xylitol is a common ingredient in sugarless gum, sugarless candies, toothpaste, mouthwash and packaged sweeteners. Dogs are highly allergic to xylitol. It can cause liver damage if ingested. Some of the symptoms of xylitol toxicity are vomiting, diarrhea, bloody or black feces and seizures. These symptoms can appear within 30 minutes of eating xylitol, according to the Pet Health Care Gazette. Even small amounts can prove fatal to a dog. If your dog ingests xylitol, you will need to seek out veterinary care immediately. There is no antidote available for xylitol poisoning, but the veterinarian can hospitalize the dog and monitor its symptoms.