Fruits & Vegetables That Are Poisonous to Dogs

Many fruits and vegetables that have health benefits for humans can be harmful or fatal to dogs. If you suspect your dog has consumed something that is potentially toxic, contact your veterinary office or veterinary emergency center immediately. The American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) also has a pet poison control hotline and can refer you to a local care provider.

  1. Grapes and Raisins

    • Do not feed your dog grapes or raisins as they can cause acute renal failure, which causes severe kidney damage. As of 2010, it is unknown what component of grapes are toxic to dogs or why. ARF may be preceded by vomiting; if you find signs that grapes or raisins have been ingested in the materials purged from the dog's stomach, call your vet or the ASPCA poison hotline immediately; treatment should be performed by your vet within two hours of ingestion.

    Onions and Garlic

    • Ingested in high enough amounts, garlic and onions cause gastrointestinal distress which may lead to red blood cell destruction. Most dog food and dog treats contain some garlic or or onion powder which, while harmful to many cats, will not have any detrimental effect on your dog. If your dog eats any quantity of onion or garlic, contact your vet, who will perform a diagnostic to determine toxicity and prescribe treatment if necessary.

    Tomatoes

    • It is unlikely that ripe tomatoes or tomato products such as sauce or paste will injure your dog---although canned products are high in sodium, which dogs do not need. However, green tomatoes contain an element called tomatine, which causes gastrointestinal problems and may lead to heart and neurological damage. If your dog ingests green tomatoes---or tomato plant leaves or flowers---your vet needs to be notified immediately to monitor and treat the animal's symptoms.

    Avocados

    • It is not completely understood what damage avocado ingestion can do to dogs or why, but avocados have been identified as causes of heart disease and mammary dysfunction in goats, cows and rabbits, and they are especially toxic to birds. Initial symptoms of avocado ingestion in your dog might be vomiting. Take your dog to the veterinary office as quickly as possible so staff can watch for and treat signs of cardiovascular disruption and damage.

    Rhubarb

    • Oxalic acid is prevalent in rhubarb and very toxic to dogs and cats. When ingested, it can become crystallized in your animal's renal system and lead to kidney failure. Initial symptoms of oxalic acid poisoning include mouth irritation, diarrhea and vomiting. If your dog consumes any amount of rhubarb rush him to your vet or veterinary emergency center, where he will receive fluids and preventative medicine to support and protect his kidneys and prevent acute renal failure.