Do you ever catch your furry friend giving you the puppy eyes, begging for a bite of your food? As tempting as it may be to share your favorite snacks with your pup, not all human foods are safe for dogs. In fact, some of the things we enjoy the most can cause serious harm to our four-legged friends. So before you slip your pup a treat from the dinner table, check out our list of 20 foods that should be off-limits for your canine companion. Trust us, your pup will thank you in the long run.

• Chocolate – Dogs should not eat chocolate because it contains theobromine, which can be toxic to them. Theobromine is a compound that dogs are not able to metabolize effectively, and it can build up in their system and cause various symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in severe cases. The darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of theobromine, making it even more dangerous for dogs. It’s important to keep chocolate and all other foods containing chocolate away from dogs to ensure their safety and well-being.

• Grapes and raisins – Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts. The exact reason why grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs is still unknown, but it is believed that the substances present in these fruits can cause severe damage to a dog’s kidneys. Symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased appetite. In severe cases, dogs may also experience dehydration, anemia, and kidney failure, which can be fatal if left untreated. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep all grapes and raisins out of your dog’s reach and seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your dog has ingested any.

• Onions and garlic – Onions and garlic, in any form, whether cooked or raw, can be toxic to dogs. They contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to a condition called hemolytic anemia. Symptoms of onion or garlic toxicity in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to organ damage and even death. Therefore, it’s essential to keep these ingredients away from your furry friend’s diet and seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your dog has ingested any onion or garlic-containing foods.

• Avocado – Avocado contains persin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting and diarrhea. While the flesh of the avocado fruit may not be as harmful to dogs, the large seed in the center of the fruit can cause choking or intestinal obstruction if ingested by your furry friend. Therefore, it is best to keep avocados and any food products that contain avocado away from your dog.

• Macadamia nuts – Macadamia nuts can be toxic to dogs and cause severe symptoms such as muscle tremors, weakness, vomiting, and increased body temperature. The exact cause of the toxicity is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a chemical compound in the nuts. Even a small amount of macadamia nuts can cause harm to your dog, so it is important to keep these nuts out of reach and avoid feeding them to your furry friend. If you suspect your dog has consumed macadamia nuts, seek veterinary care immediately.

• Alcohol – Dogs should not consume alcohol because it can lead to serious health problems and even death. Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even seizures in dogs. It can also lower their blood sugar and body temperature, leading to hypoglycemia and hypothermia. Additionally, the consumption of alcohol can cause liver damage and potentially irreversible liver disease in dogs. As responsible pet owners, it is important to keep alcoholic beverages out of reach of our furry friends and never intentionally give them alcohol.

• Caffeine – Caffeine is a stimulant that can have serious health consequences for dogs. It can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and even seizures. In severe cases, it can even be fatal. Additionally, caffeine can cause increased thirst and urination, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. While many of us enjoy our daily dose of caffeine, it is best to keep it away from our furry friends to ensure their health and safety.

• Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candy) – Xylitol is a sugar substitute that can be found in many sugar-free products, including gum and candy. While it is safe for humans to consume, it can be extremely toxic to dogs. When a dog ingests xylitol, it can cause a rapid insulin release, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs can include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and even liver failure. It is important for dog owners to always check the ingredients of any food or candy before giving it to their pet to ensure their safety.

• Fatty foods – Fatty foods, such as fried or greasy meats, can be harmful to dogs. These foods can cause digestive problems, including diarrhea and vomiting. Additionally, dogs that consume high amounts of fatty foods over a long period may become obese, which can lead to health problems such as joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease. While dogs may beg for table scraps or seem to enjoy human food, it’s important to remember that their dietary needs differ from ours, and it’s best to stick to a balanced and nutritious diet designed for their specific needs.

• Bones (cooked) – Dogs should not be given cooked bones as they can splinter and cause serious damage to their digestive system. Cooked bones are more brittle and prone to breaking, which can lead to sharp pieces lodging in the dog’s throat, stomach or intestines. This can cause choking, blockages, internal bleeding and even death. Therefore, it is best to avoid giving your dog cooked bones altogether, and instead opt for safe and appropriate chew toys or treats.

• Raw meat and fish – Dogs should avoid eating raw meat and fish due to the potential risks of bacterial infections such as salmonella and E. coli. Raw meat and fish can also contain parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and flukes, which can cause serious health issues in dogs. Cooking the meat or fish thoroughly can help eliminate these risks and ensure the food is safe for your furry friend. Additionally, some raw diets can lack essential nutrients and lead to imbalances in your dog’s diet. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

• Dairy products (milk, cheese, ice cream, etc.) – While many dogs love the taste of dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream, these foods can be problematic for our furry friends. Dogs, like some humans, can be lactose intolerant, which means they have difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Feeding your dog dairy products can cause digestive upset, including diarrhea and vomiting. In some cases, it can also lead to more severe symptoms like dehydration and pancreatitis. To keep your dog healthy and happy, it’s best to avoid feeding them dairy products altogether.

• Fruit pits and seeds – Fruit pits and seeds may seem harmless, but they can be dangerous for dogs to consume. These parts of fruits contain small amounts of cyanide, which can cause toxicity in dogs. Ingesting a large amount of fruit pits and seeds can result in gastrointestinal obstruction, which may require surgical intervention. Furthermore, the sharp edges of pits can damage the digestive tract, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. To avoid any potential health risks, it’s best to remove fruit pits and seeds before giving your dog any fruit as a treat.

• Yeast dough – Yeast dough should never be fed to dogs as it can lead to a variety of health complications. When yeast dough is ingested by dogs, it can continue to rise in their stomachs and cause a dangerous amount of gas to accumulate, leading to bloating, discomfort, and potentially life-threatening conditions like gastric torsion. Additionally, the yeast in the dough can produce alcohol as a byproduct, which can cause dogs to become drunk and suffer from symptoms like disorientation, vomiting, and even seizures. It’s best to keep yeast dough out of reach of dogs to avoid these potential health risks.

• Human medications – Dogs should not be given human medications as they can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Many medications that are safe for humans can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. For example, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can cause serious liver and kidney damage in dogs. Even common medications like antidepressants and heart medications can be dangerous to dogs. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, including those that are meant for humans.

• Corn on the cob – Corn on the cob is a popular summer treat for humans, but it is not recommended for dogs. While dogs can eat corn, the cob is indigestible and can cause serious health issues if ingested. The cob can cause intestinal blockages, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. Additionally, the kernels may become a choking hazard if not properly chewed, leading to possible aspiration or other respiratory problems. Therefore, it is best to avoid feeding your dog corn on the cob and opt for other dog-friendly treats instead.

• Salty snacks (chips, pretzels, etc.) – Dogs should not eat salty snacks such as chips and pretzels because they contain excessive amounts of sodium, which can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and even sodium ion poisoning in severe cases. Consuming too much salt can also cause dogs to become excessively thirsty and drink too much water, leading to further complications. Additionally, salty snacks often contain unhealthy fats and other ingredients that are not suitable for a dog’s diet, leading to potential digestive issues and weight gain. Therefore, it is essential to avoid feeding salty snacks to dogs and instead opt for healthy, dog-friendly alternatives.

• Spices and seasonings – Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and feeding them spicy or seasoned foods can cause gastrointestinal problems. Spices and seasonings like garlic, onion, salt, and pepper are often used to enhance the flavor of human food but can be harmful to dogs. Garlic and onion contain compounds that can damage dogs’ red blood cells and cause anemia, while salt can lead to dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. Even small amounts of these ingredients can cause adverse effects on dogs’ health. It’s best to avoid giving dogs spicy or seasoned foods and stick to a balanced diet of dog food and treats specifically formulated for their nutritional needs.

• Mushrooms – Dogs should not eat mushrooms because many types of mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious health issues or even be fatal. Some mushrooms contain toxins that can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and even liver damage. It can be difficult to distinguish between safe and toxic mushrooms, as some poisonous varieties can look very similar to edible ones. Therefore, it’s best to keep all mushrooms away from your dog’s reach and stick to safe and healthy treats recommended by your veterinarian.

• Nutmeg – Nutmeg is a common spice used in many human foods, but it is not safe for dogs to consume. The spice contains a compound called myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, disorientation, and even seizures in dogs. Ingesting nutmeg can also cause digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. Additionally, the high fat content in nutmeg can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Therefore, it is important for dog owners to keep nutmeg and foods containing nutmeg away from their furry friends to prevent potential health risks.

Remember, as much as we love to share our food with our furry friends, it’s important to keep in mind that some human foods can be dangerous for dogs. So next time your pup begs for a bite of your meal, think twice before sharing that nutmeg-spiced pie or chocolatey dessert. Keep your pup safe and happy by sticking to their trusted dog food and treats. And if you’re ever unsure about a particular food, it’s always best to consult with your vet. Happy eating (for you and your dog), and stay safe!