Common Foods That Are Actually Dangerous for Your Dog: The Surprising Truth

The Shocking Truth About These Common Foods

1. Avocado's Skin
   

2. Raw Bread Dough
   Surprisingly, some people let their dogs lick raw bread dough, thinking it's harmless. However, the yeast in raw dough can expand in your dog's stomach, causing severe bloating and potentially life-threatening complications.

3. Sugar-Free Products
   Many sugar-free foods contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that's extremely toxic to dogs. This includes:

• Sugar-free peanut butter

• Sugar-free gum

• Sugar-free candy

• Some brands of toothpaste

4. Grapes and Raisins
   Despite being healthy snacks for humans, these fruits can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Even a small amount can be dangerous, and some dogs are more sensitive than others.

5. Onions and Garlic
   Many people season their dog's food without realizing that all forms of onions and garlic (powder, raw, cooked, or dehydrated) can destroy a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Common Misconceptions

1. "Milk is good for dogs"
   Actually, most adult dogs are lactose intolerant. Milk and dairy products can cause digestive upset and diarrhea.

2. "Dogs can eat any human meat products"
   While meat is generally good for dogs, fatty meats and bacon can lead to pancreatitis. Also, any meat with cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries.

3. "A little bit of chocolate won't hurt"
   This is dangerously wrong. Even small amounts of chocolate, especially dark or baking chocolate, can be toxic. The theobromine in chocolate can cause severe illness or death.

Surprising Items to Avoid

1. Corn on the Cob
   While corn itself isn't toxic, the cob can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed.

2. Macadamia Nuts
   These nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs.

3. Coffee and Tea
   Any caffeine-containing products can be fatal to dogs, causing restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.

What To Do If Your Dog Eats These Foods

1. Contact your veterinarian immediately

2. Monitor your dog for unusual symptoms

3. Keep the ASPCA Animal Poison Control number handy: (888) 426-4435 (USA)

Safe Alternatives

Instead of human food treats, stick to:

• Commercial dog treats

• Plain, cooked lean meats

• Fresh carrots

• Apple slices (without seeds)

• Plain, cooked sweet potato

Remember, when in doubt, always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog's diet. It's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your furry friend's health!

Note: This list isn't exhaustive, and individual dogs may have specific sensitivities or allergies. Always consult with your veterinarian about your dog's specific dietary needs.