As dog parents, we all know the feeling. Your pup gives you those big, hopeful eyes while you’re snacking, and it’s so hard to resist sharing. But did you know some human foods—even ones that seem totally harmless—can be dangerous for dogs?
Here are 13 surprising foods you should avoid giving your pup:
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Grapes & Raisins: Even a small amount can cause kidney failure. Better to snack on these solo!
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Onions & Garlic: These can damage your dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Cooked, raw, powdered—they’re all a no-go.
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Avocado: The persin in avocados can upset your pup’s stomach. Guac is great for us, but not for them!
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Macadamia Nuts: These can be super toxic for dogs, causing weakness, vomiting, and even tremors.
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Xylitol (Sugar-Free Sweeteners): Found in gum, candy, and even some peanut butters, xylitol can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar and liver failure.
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Chocolate (Especially Dark): We all know this one, but it’s worth repeating. The theobromine in chocolate is toxic and can affect your dog’s heart and nervous system.
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Cooked Bones: They might seem like a classic treat, but cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or serious internal injuries.
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Dough with Yeast: Yeast can expand in your dog’s stomach, causing painful bloating or even alcohol poisoning as it ferments.
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Dairy (in Large Amounts): Some dogs can handle a little, but many are lactose intolerant. Too much can lead to upset stomachs and messy cleanups.
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Alcohol: Even small amounts can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Keep that glass of wine or beer out of reach.
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Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks): Caffeine is toxic to dogs and can cause heart issues, restlessness, and seizures.
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Nutmeg: It contains myristicin, which can lead to seizures, tremors, and even hallucinations in dogs. Yikes!
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Corn on the Cob: Corn itself isn’t toxic, but the cob can cause a dangerous intestinal blockage if swallowed.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something They Shouldn’t: If you suspect your pup ate something toxic, call your vet or an emergency animal poison hotline immediately. Time is critical in these situations!
Your Pup’s Health Is Everything At Barktiv, we know how much your dog means to you. Keeping them healthy is a top priority—and good nutrition is a big part of that. That’s why we created Motion+ Hip & Joint Formula to give your pup the support they need to stay active and happy for years to come.