We all know that our furry babies aren’t picky eaters; however, this doesn’t mean that everything they consume is healthy for them. As a dog parent, it is essential to know the foods that are toxic to dogs. Quite a few foods that we eat, like fruits and vegetables, can harm dogs and cause severe health problems.

Where at home or staying at pet friendly oceanfront rentals, here are some foods that you should avoid giving your dog:

1. Caffeine
Tea or coffee in any form can have a significant impact on dogs. The stimulant is far stronger for dogs than it is for humans. Ingestion of caffeine could significantly disrupt their sleep schedule. While this is just one of the effects of caffeine, it makes it to our list of dangerous foods to dogs for its adverse reactions, some of which are spiked blood pressure, hyperactivity, increased heart rate, and cardiac arrest. This can be fatal. Caffeine by-products like sodas, tea, chocolates, and energy drinks must not be given to dogs.

2. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, a predominant toxic substance, which disrupts the digestive system of dogs. It takes time to fully digest and increases the level of toxins in a dog’s body. That said, eating a small piece of chocolate won’t trigger any symptoms. However, eating a large chunk of a chocolate bar or desserts containing chocolate can lead to muscle tremors, seizures, inconsistent pulse, severe hyperactivity, internal bleeding, and even a stroke.

3. Onion and garlic
Onion, garlic, and chives can alter the red blood cells count in dogs. Excessive intake of these ingredients can lower the count of the red blood cells, so much so that it can cause anaemia. Onions are incredibly toxic to dogs and can be fatal, which is why it’s essential to keep these away from them. In addition, it is important to avoid giving pet foods that contain onions as an ingredient to your dog.

4. Dairy
Some pups don’t react well to lactose and may experience serious symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to avoid giving milk and its by-products, like yoghurt, cheese, and ice cream, to dogs, as these can result in diarrhoea.

5. Grapes and raisins
These fruits have made it to our list of dangerous foods to dogs, as they can make them feel lethargic and depressed. In addition, the consumption of grapes can cause vomiting, nausea, and kidney failure in extreme cases.

6. Xylitol
This sweetener is commonly used in muffins, cakes, toothpaste, gum, candy, cookies, and sweet bread. But it is highly toxic for dogs. If ingested, it can result in seizures, lack of muscle coordination, and liver failure. The symptoms are intense, as intake of xylitol cause the pancreas to release excess insulin, leading to a spike in their blood sugar levels.