Dog Health - 5 Human Foods That Are Toxic to Your Dog

We've all heard it said that we are what we eat, and with many families, that's not a pretty picture.

Long ago, dogs survived on the prey that they hunted. They chewed on bones and that's what kept their teeth clean. However, our pets don't live in the wilderness anymore. They've moved from an outdoor environment into our living room. Now, they wait or demand that we feed them. They love to feast on packaged foods, and oftentimes this can harm your pet.

The following five foods are toxic to your dog.

1. Alcoholic Beverages

Many dog owners would never dream of giving their pet a taste of alcohol, yet dogs are attracted to the sweetness, and it can cause serious and fatal intoxication. Never offer your dog an alcoholic beverage.

These are just some of the signs and side effects:

• Cardiac arrest and death


• Depression


• Excitement


• Incoordination


• Excessive urination


• Breathing rate is slowed

2. Avocado

Did you know that avocado leaves, fruit, seeds, and bark contain a toxin known as Persin? The Guatemalan variety is the most toxic, but all avocados have toxic potential. An avocado causes vomiting, diarrhea, and primarily gastro intestinal distress. You should keep avocados and any prepared avocado spreads away from your dog.

3. All forms of chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is a compound that is a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic. If your dog exhibits any of the following signs, you should question if s/he has ingested chocolate.

• Initial excitement


• Vomiting and diarrhea


• Seizures


• Increased heart rate and arrhythmia


• Increased water consumption and frequent urination

4. Macadamia Nuts

Although very tasty for humans, Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that affects the digestive and nervous systems of dogs. In addition, the nuts affect their muscles and leads to paralysis. Even butters made out of nuts can cause the same symptoms.

5. Apples, plums, peaches, and apricots

If your dog eats the stems, seeds, or leaves of these fruits, it can be toxic. Each of the fruits mentioned above contain a cyanide type compound. Signs of toxicity include difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, apprehension, shock, and hyperventilation.