Could Your Love Be Harming Your Dog? Essential Safety Tips

Dogs are more than just pets; they are our loyal companions and family members. Naturally, we want to show them love, often through treats or sharing our food. However, did you know that some of our favourite human foods can be dangerous—even deadly—to dogs? Understanding which foods to avoid and how to show care responsibly is crucial to your dog's health and happiness.

1. Chocolate: A Sweet Threat

Although chocolate tastes delightful to us, it contains theobromine, a substance toxic to dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst, irregular heart rhythms, and even seizures or death. The toxicity varies with chocolate type: baking chocolate is the most dangerous, followed by dark, milk, and white chocolate. Instead of sharing your treats, consider dog-friendly treats from reputable breeders.

2. Milk and Dairy Products: Digestive Dangers

Many dogs lack sufficient lactase enzyme to digest lactose in milk and dairy, which can lead to diarrhoea and digestive upset. Some develop allergies causing itchy skin or other reactions. To keep your dog comfortable, always provide fresh water and avoid dairy sharing. If you want to treat your dog, safe dog-specific products are best.

3. Onions and Garlic: Hidden Toxicity

Onions and garlic—whether raw, cooked, powdered, or dehydrated—can damage a dog's red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Even small regular quantities can harm your dog. Signs include vomiting, weakness, breathlessness, and loss of appetite. Be vigilant with leftovers and foods like baby food, which may contain onion powder.

4. Tea, Coffee and Caffeinated Drinks: No Sharing Allowed

Caffeine affects dogs just as it does humans but can be far more dangerous. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, muscle tremors, heart palpitations, seizures, and bleeding. Common caffeine sources include tea, coffee, chocolate, certain soft drinks, and energy drinks like Red Bull. Keep all caffeinated products well out of your dog’s reach.

5. Grapes and Raisins: Unexpected Kidney Risks

While cats and dogs may be tempted by grapes or raisins as treats, these can cause sudden kidney failure even in small amounts. Early poisoning signs include vomiting, lethargy, and depression. Until more is understood, it's safest to keep grapes and raisins away from your dog entirely.

6. Macadamia Nuts: Small Nuts, Big Trouble

Macadamia nuts are particularly toxic to dogs and can cause muscle tremors, weakness or paralysis, vomiting, fever, rapid heart rate, and hypothermia. Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours and may last up to two days. Beware of products like chocolate-coated nuts, which increase danger.

7. Sugary Foods and Drinks: Avoid the Sweet Trap

Excess sugar can lead to obesity, dental problems and diabetes in dogs. Avoid sharing sweets, biscuits, and cakes, and always promote a balanced canine diet to help your dog maintain a healthy weight and vibrant oral health.

8. Cat Food: Not a Substitute

Dog and cat foods have distinctly different nutrient profiles. Cat food is too high in protein and fat for dogs and can upset their digestion. If you run out of dog food, plain pasta or rice are safer temporary alternatives.

Understanding Symptoms and Acting Quickly

Dogs are curious and sometimes get into harmful foods despite owners’ best efforts. Symptoms of poisoning or dietary indiscretions include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness, seizures, and loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog has eaten something dangerous, seek veterinary care promptly. Keep your vet's contact details easily accessible for emergencies.

Preventing Accidental Poisoning: Best Practices

1. Store all human food, especially toxic items, out of your dog's reach.
2. Educate family and visitors about dangerous foods.
3. Use secure bins with lids to deter scavenging.
4. Feed a balanced, appropriate diet formulated for dogs.
5. Provide plenty of fresh water and avoid treats high in sugar or fat.
6. Train your dog with clear boundaries to resist begging.

Showing Love Responsibly

Love your dog by respecting their dietary needs and health. Overindulging with treats or inappropriate foods can harm behaviour and wellbeing. Balance affectionate behaviours with proper training and care. This also includes sourcing your dog from reputable breeders or responsible adopters who prioritise health and welfare.

Ultimately, your thoughtful care and awareness keep your canine companion happy, healthy, and sharing your love for years to come.