If your dog is staring up at you from under the table while you are eating, it can be tempting to share a little of your dinner with them.
Whatever your thoughts are on this in terms of dog obedience and what is acceptable in your home, it’s worth knowing which human foods your dogs can safely consume and which they can’t.
Nuts
Not all nuts are the same in terms of whether or not they are safe for dogs.
Dog owners should be wary of letting dogs have any salted nuts because the high salt levels can increase water retention, which isn’t good news, especially for dogs prone to heart disease.
Some unsalted nuts are safe for dogs to consume, for example, cashews. However, they should only be given in small amounts as a treat because of the high-fat levels. Peanuts are also safe for dogs to consume in small amounts.
Almonds are dangerous to dogs because of their shape; they can tear the windpipe or block the esophagus.
Macadamia nuts should never be given to dogs because they are toxic. They can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and can impact the nervous system.
Eggnogg
If you’re wondering, can dogs have eggnog? Read this post for a detailed information.
Eggnog containing alcohol is particularly toxic for dogs, and the high fat content in the eggs and cream that make up the rest of the recipe isn’t good news either. They can cause vomiting and diarrhea and can have a bad impact on the pancreas.
Exactly how toxic eggnog is to your pets is dependent on how much they have consumed, what it was made of and what size and breed your dog is.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener that is used in a number of different products like candies, toothpaste, and baked goods. It’s particularly used in diet products as a replacement for sugar.
Dog owners should be especially vigilant when choosing which peanut butter to feed their dogs as a treat, as xylitol is used in some of them.
If eaten by dogs, xylitol can cause your dog’s blood sugar to drop and can even cause liver failure.
Onions and garlic
These should be kept away from your dog at all cost, even the powdered forms found in some baby foods and ready meals.
Onions and garlic can kill your dog’s red blood cells and cause anemia. Even just a small amount is dangerous.
Fat trimmings and bones
It can seem like a good idea to feed your fat trimmings and bones to your dog, but they actually aren’t good for them.
Fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis in dogs – whether the meat is cooked or uncooked, and bones can splinter and cause cuts within your dog’s digestive system.
Grapes and raisins
Be sure to keep your dog away from grapes and raisins, including those found in baked goods. Even in small amounts, they can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure.
