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The Forbidden Foods
Some of the most common foods in your home can be dangerous for your dog. This is your clear, save-worthy guide to what to avoid, the symptoms to watch for, and exactly what to do if something goes wrong.
If you’ve ever dropped something on the kitchen floor, you’ll know… those eyes are fast. And very convincing.But as much as we love sharing life with our dogs, there are a few things that should never be shared from our plates. Some foods that are completely normal for us can be incredibly harmful for them, even in smallest amounts.
1. Chocolate
Contains theobromine, which dogs can’t process properly. It builds up in their system and can overstimulate the heart and nervous system.
Symptoms to watch for: restlessness, panting, vomiting, increased heart rate, tremors
What to do: use the chocolate calculator below to assess risk, and contact your vet if you’re unsure or symptoms appear
If your dog ever does get into something like chocolate, we have found this very cool and easy to use chocolate calculator by Pet MD. It is a helpful tool to quickly understand potential risk based on what they have eaten, so you can act calmly and quickly if needed...or better yet, relax.
2. Grapes & Raisins
Can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
Symptoms to watch for: vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, increased thirst
What to do: contact your vet immediately, even if symptoms haven’t started yet
3. Onions, Garlic & Chives
Damage red blood cells and reduce oxygen flow in the body. Effects can build over time.
Symptoms to watch for: weakness, pale gums, fatigue, reduced appetite
What to do: monitor closely and contact your vet if ingestion is known or symptoms appear
4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Causes a rapid insulin release, leading to dangerously low blood sugar.Symptoms to watch for: weakness, confusion, vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures
What to do: this is urgent, seek veterinary help immediately
5. Macadamia Nuts
Toxic to dogs and can affect the nervous system.
Symptoms to watch for: weakness (especially in back legs), vomiting, tremors, fever
What to do: contact your vet and monitor closely
What to do: contact your vet and monitor closely
6. Avocado
Contains persin, which can upset the digestive system.
Symptoms to watch for: vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach discomfort
What to do: monitor for mild symptoms, contact your vet if symptoms worsen or persist.
7. Alcohol & Caffeine
Dogs are highly sensitive to both, even in small amounts.
Symptoms to watch for: disorientation, vomiting, tremors, slowed or irregular breathing
What to do: seek veterinary attention immediately.
8. Raw Yeast Dough
Expands in the stomach and produces alcohol as it ferments.
Symptoms to watch for: bloating, discomfort, vomiting, lethargy
What to do: contact your vet immediately
9. Cooked Bones
Can splinter and cause internal injuries.
Symptoms to watch for: choking, vomiting, constipation, blood in stool, discomfort
What to do: monitor closely and contact your vet if you notice any signs of distress
To help you we have put together a simple visual guide to keep on hand, save this image or download the PDF here to keep on your fridge or share with a fellow dog parent.
We know it can feel like saying no when they’re looking at you like that… but keeping them safe is part of loving them well.
