Attention dog owners, we're talking about poisonous foods for dogs! Many of the treats we give our four-legged friends are not only unhealthy, but can also be poisonous. Protect your loyal companion from the dangerous treat trap! Even if you're just looking after one dog, you should read this!
Beware of treat traps! These snacks are not only unhealthy, but also toxic for your dog
Your dog is your best friend and you only want to give him the best. But be careful: some snacks can be dangerous for your four-legged friend! There are various foods that are poisonous to dogs and can lead to serious health problems or even death.
This is because dogs, unlike humans, cannot digest certain foods or are more sensitive to toxins due to their size and weight class. It is important to note that even small amounts of many foods can be dangerous.
These include chocolate, garlic, avocado, onions and grapes. Some nuts such as macadamia nuts should also be avoided. But why are these foods so dangerous? In some cases they contain substances that are not tolerated by dogs or even toxins that can lead to poisoning.
Chocolate / Cocoa
Chocolate is toxic to dogs because it contains theobromine. Theobromine is a substance found in cocoa and chocolate that is relatively safe for humans. However, dogs can break down theobromine much more slowly than humans, causing theobromine to build up in the dog's body and cause toxic effects.
Theobromine affects the nervous system and cardiovascular system of dogs. It can cause increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, tremors, muscle twitching, overheating and seizures. In severe cases, eating chocolate can even lead to the death of the dog.
The exact toxicity of chocolate depends on several factors, such as the type of chocolate (dark chocolate contains more theobromine than white chocolate), the amount the dog has eaten, and the size and health of the dog. However, it is always best to avoid any contact between dogs and chocolate to prevent any potential health risks.
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onions
Onions are toxic to dogs and should be avoided. Onions contain a substance called thiosulfate, which can cause a form of anemia in dogs known as Heinz body anemia. This anemia occurs when the red blood cells in dogs' bodies are damaged and ultimately break down.
Symptoms of onion poisoning in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, loss of appetite, pale mucous membranes, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath. In some cases, severe complications may occur that can be life-threatening.
It is important to ensure that dogs do not have access to onions, whether raw, cooked, or in processed forms such as onion powder or onion sauce. Even small amounts of onion can be harmful, especially in small dogs. If you suspect your dog has eaten onions, seek veterinary help immediately. The vet can recommend appropriate treatment steps to minimize the negative effects.
Garlic
Garlic is also toxic to dogs and should be avoided. Like onions, garlic contains the harmful thiosulfate, which can cause a form of anemia in dogs, just as onions can.
Symptoms of garlic poisoning in dogs are similar to onion poisoning and may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, loss of appetite, pale mucous membranes, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath. Serious complications may also occur.
It is important to note that both raw garlic and garlic powder or garlic additives in food can be potentially harmful to dogs. If you suspect your dog has eaten garlic, seek veterinary help immediately. The veterinarian can take appropriate measures to treat or minimize any potential negative effects.
It is therefore safest to exclude garlic from a dog's diet to avoid potential health problems.
There are many healthy alternatives such as carrots, apples or bananas that also taste delicious and are good for your dog. Make sure that the snacks are given in moderation and should not make up the main part of the diet.
avocados
Avocados should be fed to dogs with caution and it is best to keep them in small amounts or avoid them altogether. Avocados contain a toxin called persin, which can cause gastrointestinal problems in some animals, including dogs.
Although the persin content in the fruit itself is relatively low, most of the persin is concentrated in the avocado peel and pit. If a dog eats a large amount of the peel or pit, there is an increased risk of digestive problems such as vomiting or diarrhea. In addition, the high fat content in avocados can lead to pancreatitis or obesity if consumed in large quantities.
If you want to feed your dog avocado, always remove the peel and pit and only feed the pulp in small amounts. Also, observe your dog's reaction after consumption and make sure that no adverse symptoms occur. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian before feeding avocado to make sure it is safe for your dog.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs and should never be given to them. It has been found that eating grapes or raisins can cause severe kidney problems in dogs, even kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. The exact cause of grape and raisin toxicity in dogs is not yet fully understood. Not all dogs show symptoms after eating grapes or raisins, but some may experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, increased thirst, and decreased urine production.
There is no known safe amount or type of grapes or raisins that are safe for dogs. It is extremely important to make sure your dog does not have access to grapes or raisins, whether in fresh form or in processed foods such as raisin rolls or raisin cakes. If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, seek veterinary help immediately. The vet may be able to take steps to treat the toxicity and minimize complications.
Alcohol and coffee / caffeine
Alcohol and coffee should never be fed to dogs. Alcohol and caffeine can cause serious health problems in dogs and can even be life-threatening.
Alcohol has a much stronger effect on dogs than on humans. Consumption of alcohol can lead to poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as coordination problems, vomiting, shortness of breath, seizures, unconsciousness and even death.
Caffeine, found in coffee and many other caffeinated drinks and foods, can also be toxic to dogs. Caffeine affects the nervous and cardiovascular systems and can lead to increased blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, gastrointestinal problems and nervousness. Again, the effects can be much more severe for dogs than for humans.
Keep alcohol and caffeinated products safely out of the reach of dogs and make sure they do not have access to them. If you suspect your dog has consumed alcohol or coffee, seek veterinary help immediately, as prompt medical treatment can be life-saving.
Nuts
Nuts should be fed to dogs with caution as not all types of nuts are suitable for dogs. Some nuts can be toxic to dogs or cause digestive problems.
Macadamia nuts are particularly toxic to dogs. Eating macadamia nuts can cause symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, coordination problems, tremors, and increased breathing rate. It is important to ensure that dogs do not have access to macadamia nuts.
Walnuts can also pose a risk as they have a high fat content and can potentially cause gastrointestinal distress, especially if consumed in large quantities. Other types of nuts such as almonds or cashews are generally not toxic to dogs, but they should be given in small amounts and only if the dog does not have any allergies or problems with
But what instead?
There are a variety of healthy foods that are safe and beneficial for dogs. Here are some examples:
- Lean meat such as chicken, turkey or beef: these protein sources are easily digestible and provide important nutrients for dogs.
- Fish such as salmon or tuna: Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for dogs' skin, coat and joints.
- Vegetables such as carrots, green beans or pumpkin: These are rich in fiber, provide vitamins and minerals and can be used as healthy treats or as an addition to a balanced dog diet.
- Fruits like apples or berries: These contain antioxidants and fiber, but make sure you remove the seeds and peels. Give fruit in moderation as it is high in fructose.
- Quinoa or oatmeal: These grains are a good source of fiber and provide additional energy for dogs.
It is important to consider the amount and frequency of foods and ensure they are appropriate for the dog's individual needs and health. It is recommended to speak to your veterinarian before feeding any new foods to ensure they are safe for your dog and contribute to a balanced diet.
Another tip is to offer your dog homemade treats. For example, you can cut chicken breast into small pieces and bake it in the oven, or form a mixture of curd and oat flakes and roll them into small balls. These alternatives are not only healthier than store-bought treats, but are also cheaper and easier to make. So it's up to you to offer your dog the right snacks and keep him healthy. But be careful, too, as bones can splinter when dogs bite into them, so avoid bones too!
Ultimately, your dog's health comes first and it is always worth taking a closer look and playing it safe. And very importantly, this article does not claim to be complete,
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