There are tons of human foods that are completely safe and even healthy for dogs to eat as an occasional treat. However, others have the potential to cause serious health problems and even death. This article gives an overview of five foods that your dog should not eat.
Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages contain ethanol, which is toxic to dogs. While small amounts of alcohol may cause mild symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, large amounts can cause a pretty significant drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), which can lead to death if untreated.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a compound called methylxanthine (theobromine). Methylxanthines are stimulants that affect the heart and nervous system in both humans and dogs. Ingestion of chocolate (even small amounts) by dogs can result in severe illness or death due to multiple organ failure. Milk chocolate contains less methylxanthine than dark chocolate. However, both types should be avoided altogether if possible as they are both high in fat and sugar content which can cause obesity if your dog overindulges in them regularly!
Apple Seeds
Apple seeds contain a plant compound called amygdalin that breaks down into hydrogen cyanide when digested by people or animals (including dogs). Amygdalin is harmless in small amounts but can be fatal if ingested in large doses or over a long period of time. Dogs may also develop cyanide poisoning after eating other seeds containing this chemical, including peach pits, apricot kernels, and bitter almonds (also known as sweet almonds).
Avocados
Avocados are high in fat, which makes them potentially dangerous for dogs who don’t need extra calories in their diet (such as overweight dogs). The leaves and pit of avocados are also toxic, so don’t give your pet those parts either!
Almonds
Almonds are an excellent source of healthy fats that can help support joint health and boost your dog’s heart health. However, almonds also contain cyanide compounds that can be toxic to humans and animals if consumed in large quantities. Dogs can safely eat small amounts of raw almonds as long as no cyanide compounds remain on the nut. To reduce the risk of cyanide poisoning from almonds, soak them in water for 24 hours before feeding them to your dog.
