Pet care does not just mean feeding your pet proper food at the right time; it also entails knowing what you cannot feed your dog. There are a ton of foods that can be extremely harmful to your furry friends, even though they are perfectly healthy for humans.
1. Caffeine
Caffeine contains a stimulant called methylated xanthine, which stimulates the nervous system in dogs that may cause restlessness, vomiting, heart palpitation and even death. Caffeine can come in the form of many foods including coffee, cocoa, chocolate, tea, sodas and energy drinks, according to Natural News.
2. Xylitol
Used as a sugar substitute for diabetics, Xylitol can be fatal to dogs despite being harmless to humans. Symptoms of Xylitol consumption in dogs include low blood sugar, liver failure, vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, seizures and death.
3. Chocolate
Perhaps one of the most popular foods that are bad for dogs, chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which can be extremely toxic for dogs. When eaten, chocolate can cause vomiting, dehydration, abdominal pains, irregular heart rhythms, seizures and even death.
4. Grapes
Unfortunately, the chemicals and compounds that cause grapes to be harmful to dogs are not known but the consumption of it can be devastating. Grapes can cause rapid kidney failure, vomiting, diarrhea as well as a lethargic state, which can eventually lead to death.
5. Avocado
Avocados contain a toxin called persin, which can cause upset stomachs, breathing difficulties and fluid buildup in dogs. The most dangerous part of an avocado, however, is in the pit, which can accidentally be swallowed by dogs that can lead to the obstruction of the gastrointestinal tracts.
6. Yeast dough
Yeast dough, which is used to make bread, should be kept away from dogs because it can ferment in a dog's stomach and become toxic. Yeast dough can also expand in a dog's stomach or intestines and produce a large amount of gas in the digestive system leading to severe pain and a ruptured stomach or intestinal tract.
7. Milk
Dogs can also suffer from lactose intolerance, which can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal problems. While these symptoms may not be life threatening, milk may lead to serious bacteria exposure in dogs, according to Huffington Post.
