As dog-lovers, it’s hard to resist giving in to your pup, and throwing Fido a scrap or two when we’re eating? Those big watery eyes are hard to resist! However, some foods just aren’t good for our canine pal, and can even harm them. Knowing which morsels and treats to keep away from your pup can help ensure he stays healthy. Here, a veterinarian lists some things you should never feed your dog.
Sugary, Fatty, Salty, and High-Protein Foods
As much as Fido may want a few french fries, a piece of steak, or some of your dessert, these foods can cause him real problems.
- Dogs can’t process fatty and high-protein foods very well, so eating these foods can cause digestive problems and even lead to pancreatitis and liver dysfunction.
- Salty treats throw off your pup’s electrolytes, which regulate his muscle function and help keep him hydrated.
- Sweets are just as bad for your canine companion as they are for you! In fact, feeding your pup chocolate can actually kill him. To help manage and prevent dental issues that may arise from diet, explore our “Veterinary Dentistry” services for comprehensive oral health care for your pet.
Dairy Products
Dairy products may have an abundance of calcium-boosting properties, but your dog’s digestive system isn’t equipped to digest dairy. Eating dairy may place him at risk of developing abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea, and could cause lactose intolerance.
Nuts
Nuts may seem like they’d be healthy for your furry pal, but they actually have a high fat content. Besides that, the compact size of nuts makes them a choking hazard for your dog. Macadamia nuts, in particular, are highly poisonous to dogs. Never, ever feed them to Fido!
Raw Eggs
Cooked eggs are fine for Fido. Raw eggs? Not so much. That’s because raw eggs contain an enzyme that can interfere with your dog’s ability to digest biotin, which is a B vitamin. This can lead to digestive problems, skin problems, and an unhealthy coat.
Alcohol
Even in small quantities, booze can cause serious health problems since a dog’s body is so much smaller than a human’s. This is especially true for smaller dogs. Breathing problems, diarrhea, vomiting, coma, and even death can result if your dog has just a single swallow of alcohol.
Grapes/Raisins
These sweet foods are good for us, but are highly toxic to Man’s Best Friend. Even eating one can cause organ failure! To understand more about why these foods are so dangerous and what to do if your dog accidentally consumes them, read our detailed article “Never Feed Your Pet Grapes or Raisins.”
If you have more questions about foods you shouldn’t feed to your dog or suspect he’s eaten something harmful, please don’t hesitate to call us today.
Contact us, your local animal clinic in North Miami, FL!