Toxic Foods

A list of common household food products that are toxic to dogs and/or cats.

• Alcohol -  can cause breathing difficulties, abnormal blood activity, coma and death in dogs. At parties, don't let anyone offer your dog a "drink"
•  Avocadoes -  contain persin which can cause digestive upsets and heart problems.
• Bones - may splinter and puncture or obstruct the digestive tract.
• Broccoli-  in large amounts can cause illness in dogs.
• Chocolate, Coffee & Tea- all contain stimulants that cause abnormal heartbeat, seizures and death in dogs.
• *Chocolate is especially dangerous for dogs. Did your dog eat chocolate? Click here to view the chocolate toxicity calculator.
• Corn on the Cob- is dangerous! Even though the corn will be digested, chunks of cob may obstruct the digestive tract.
• Grapes & Raisins - contain an unknown substance that causes kidney failure in dogs.
• Liver - in large amounts can cause Vitamin A toxicity.
• Macadamia Nuts - contain an unidentified toxin that causes weakness, tremors, panting and swelling in the legs.
• Walnuts - may have a fungus or mold which causes drooling, jaundice, lack of coordination, and vomiting.
• Milk - is difficult for some dogs to digest effectively, which leads to G.I. upsets.
• Mushrooms & Molds - can be toxic to dogs. Some varieties are more toxic than others.
• Nutmeg - is a seasoning that causes tremors, seizures, and death in dogs.
• Onions & Garlic -  both cooked and raw, contain thiosulphate which can cause digestive upsets, hemolytic anemia, and death. Onions contain more of the toxin than garlic does.
• Raw Egg Whites - contain avidin which causes B vitamin deficiency, skin problems and skelatel deformities. Raw eggs can also harbor salmonella or e. coli.
• Raw Fish - especially salmon, may contain parasites that are dangerous for dogs.
• Seeds & Fruit Pits -  can cause choking or intestinal blockages and some contain cyanide which is toxic to dogs.
• Xylitol - causes an insulin reaction in dogs which can lead to liver failure within a few days. It's found in many candies, gums toothpastes, and pastries.
• Greasy, fatty table scraps - can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas caused when too much digestive enzyme is produced. Affected dogs may have bloody vomit or diarrhea and suffer dehydration and even death.
• Pennies - are another danger to dogs worth mentioning. Those dated after 1981 are made from zinc with a thin copper coating. A dog swallowing just on of these pennies can suffer damage to red blood cells and kidney failure.
• Snacks shared with your dog need to be checked for hidden ingredients. Some foods such as cookies, gravies, and even some baby foods can contain chocolate, nuts, onions, excessive salt or sugar, or other items that are dangerous for dogs. Keeping garbage cans secured is a good idea too.

*For a list of common poisonous plants click here