If You Love Your Dog, Never Feed Them These 7 Toxic Foods, Says Expert

Dogs are a part of our family, and we love them dearly. That is why we have to do everything we can to keep them safe, including keeping them away from some of the food we eat and love.

We asked an expert to share foods you should never feed your dogs. 

Gabrielle Marie Yap is the senior editor and culinary entrepreneur behind Carnivore Style. As a food expert and a proud dog mom to her adorable chihuahua, Ellie, she’s usually asked about what human foods are safe for dogs. Unfortunately, some foods are toxic for dogs, and it’s very important to know what they are to keep our furry friends safe.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a big no-no for dogs because it contains a compound called theobromine. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is. Theobromine can cause a range of symptoms, from vomiting and diarrhea to abnormal heart rhythms and even seizures. 

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are another surprising danger. Even small amounts can lead to kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxic component is unknown, but ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potentially fatal kidney damage within a few hours to days. Interestingly, not all dogs are affected by grapes and raisins, but the risk is significant enough that avoidance is strongly recommended.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic contain compounds like thiosulfate, which can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia in dogs. Whether raw, cooked, or powdered, these ingredients can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weakness, and, in severe cases, collapse. The toxicity is dose-dependent, with larger amounts posing a greater risk, but even small quantities over time can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Avocados

While avocados are not toxic to all dogs, they contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in some pets. The avocado pit is a choking hazard and can cause obstruction or gastrointestinal irritation if swallowed. While the flesh of ripe avocados is generally considered safe in small quantities, caution should be exercised, especially with pets prone to digestive sensitivity.

Xylitol

Xylitol, a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and even some peanut butters, is highly toxic to dogs. It stimulates a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can result in seizures, liver failure, and death within a short time. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause significant harm, making it crucial to keep all products containing this sweetener well out of reach of pets.

Alcohol

Alcohol affects dogs much more severely than humans. Even small amounts can cause intoxication, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, coordination problems, central nervous system depression, coma, and death. Pets are particularly sensitive to ethanol, the intoxicating agent in alcoholic beverages, and ingestion should be treated as a medical emergency.

Macadamias and Walnuts

Certain nuts, such as macadamias and walnuts, can also pose risks. Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, hyperthermia, and muscle stiffness. The exact mechanism of toxicity is unclear, but ingestion of even small amounts can lead to severe symptoms. Walnuts, especially moldy ones, can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potentially more severe complications, depending on the quantity consumed and the individual dog’s sensitivity.

6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Your Knee, Hip & Back Pain

Inflammation occurs when your body reacts to foreign substances. While certain anti-inflammatory drugs can help eliminate inflammation, a diet change can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Here are six anti-inflammatory foods to help reduce knee, hip, and back pain. 

6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Your Knee, Hip & Back Pain 

Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items

Refrigeration prevents spoilage and may extend the shelf life of common foods and other perishable items. While we may innocently store some foods in the refrigerator, you may be surprised that you shouldn’t store all of them, as this may affect their nutritional value, taste, and texture. 

Although refrigeration can help preserve certain foods, some items shouldn’t be refrigerated to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoiding these foods can ensure your food stays nutritious, fresh, and flavorful. 

Here are 15 food items experts warn people never to refrigerate for optimal flavor and freshness.

Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items