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8 foods you should never feed your dog, according to the experts
What might be a delicious snack for you could be potentially fatal for your furry best friend.
As much as you want to believe that you and your dog share a body, mind, heart and soul, the reality is that, well, they're a dog and you're a human. This sad but true distinction means that they're going to metabolize foods differently than you — and that means a whole different diet. Even though it's tempting to give your dog a little treat under the table, feeding them human food can lead to major health problems, lasting damage and, in some cases, it can even be fatal.
Obviously, that's the last thing you want to happen. To keep your dog safe, healthy and well-nourished, we chatted with veterinarians to learn more.
"In general, pet owners should avoid giving their dogs 'human' foods," explains Dr. Samantha Palermo, relief veterinarian and partner at Evette. Not only do you avoid any begging and picky eating, but it's also the easiest way to prevent issues like obesity, gastrointestinal upset, pancreatitis, toxicosis, nervous system damage and death. Palermo says it's okay to occasionally offer human food as a treat, but only in moderation.
Most dangerous foods for dogs
If you're someone who wants the best for their dog and has a really hard time resisting puppy eyes, scroll down to see the foods experts agree that you should never feed your furry friend.
Chocolate
Chocolate is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of foods dogs can’t eat, right? This is all thanks to the theobromine and caffeine found in the sweet. In dogs, it can cause diarrhea and vomiting as well as heart arrhythmia, seizures and other nervous system issues — including death. While all chocolate is toxic to dogs (including white chocolate), the most dangerous types are dark chocolate, baking chocolate and cocoa powder.
Xylitol
Speaking of sweet things, dogs should be kept away from artificial sweetener xylitol at all costs. You can find it in products like gum, candy, peanut butter, mints, baked goods and toothpaste. The sugar substitute can make your dog's blood sugar levels crash, which can be lethal. It can also cause liver damage. If you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol, take them to the emergency room as soon as possible.
Grapes and raisins
Here's another no-no you've probably heard before. On top of the obvious choking hazard they pose, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. While the reason is still iffy, the tartaric acid found in the fruits is the most likely suspect.
Garlic and onions
Unfortunately, the alliums that make our food delicious can do damage to more than just your pup's GI tract — they can seriously damage their red blood cells. Ingesting them in all forms can lead to anemia, weakness and increased heart rates.
Macadamia nuts
You're going to want to keep your dog away from macadamia nuts and any food that contains them. Just a couple of the nuts can cause weakness, trouble walking, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia within 12 hours of digestion. Macadamia nuts also contain high amounts of fat, which can lead to pancreatitis.
Yeast dough
Not-so-fun fact: Yeast dough can actually rise in your pup's stomach, just like it normally would before baking. As it rises, the dough stretches out their stomach, leading to painful bloat, gas and other medical issues.
Animal bones
While your instinct after dinner may be to toss a steak or chicken bone for Fido to gnaw on, it's not the best idea. On top of containing fatty meat residue, the bones can fracture your dog's teeth as well as obstruct or perforate the GI tract.
Raw or undercooked meats and eggs
While it might seem like the "natural" option, there are no clinically proven benefits to a raw-food diet. Your dog is a domesticated animal, not a canine in the wild. Just as it can in humans, eating anything that isn't properly cooked can lead to E. coli, salmonella and other harmful foodborne illnesses like bird flu.
What foods can dogs eat?
While we know what to avoid at all costs, finding the right foods is a little more complicated since every dog is different. One thing experts do agree on is that, unless you're otherwise instructed by your veterinarian, it's best to stick to a commercial dog food diet.
However, even sticking to a dog-food-only diet isn't that simple. While there are a lot of dog food companies out there, there's not a ton of regulations to ensure high quality. "It's important to remember that pets need nutrients, not specific ingredients," says Dr. Bridget Thomas, a veterinarian with Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Care South in Indianapolis.
Thomas recommends looking for dog food companies that are doing their own nutritional research and feeding trials to make sure their foods provide optimal nutrition. Meanwhile, Dr. Samantha Kent, veterinarian and medical director at Veterinary Emergency Group, suggests looking for foods that are approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials.
Another thing to consider is how old your pup is. "There are different amounts and rations of nutrients and different feeding recommendations for different life stages," Kent says. Dog foods are typically broken down into three stages: gestation/lactation for puppies, maintenance for adult dogs or all life stages.
If you're still unsure about what to feed your dog, consult your veterinarian. In the meantime, our experts recommend the Hill's Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan and Royal Canin brands to keep your dogs healthy and happy.
Now that that's settled, let's go shopping for dog food bowls. After all, every dog deserves to eat in style.
Yes, Yeti makes dog bowls! Your pup can match you and your Yeti water bottle with this BPA-free, dishwasher-safe dish. The nonslip ring ensures that it won't budge from its spot, even if your dog is really, really excited to eat or drink. It's also tough enough to ward off rust, dents and dings.
"This bowl is huge," explains one five-star Amazon customer. "It fits so much water but doesn't take up unnecessary space, love this color to match my Yeti cooler and the design is simple, sleek and perfect. Also sturdy and functions great."
If you haven't seen one of these crazy bowls yet, here's the deal: The maze-like design isn't just a stimulating game for your pup, it forces them to slow down and pace themselves as they eat. In turn, this can prevent obesity and bloating. Available in multiple colors and patterns, the bowl is BPA-, PVC-, lead- and phthalate-free, as well as dishwasher safe. It also features a nonslip base to keep things sturdy and safe.
"Perfect for our dogs that eat way too fast," explained an Amazon fan. "It takes them several minutes now to get [through] their meals and now maybe they enjoy what they're eating instead of inhaling it. Very durable, and the slip-resistant bottom of the bowl keeps it from sliding around. Very happy with this purchase."
How cute is this bowl?! The adorable ceramic dish is safe to toss in the dishwasher and microwave, and it's made from durable ceramic. The chic, neutral color also means it'll go great with any home decor.
"Sturdy, attractive and dog-approved," wrote a happy pet parent. "Tried metal bowls ... the dogs weren't having it. Ordered these and they gave it their seal of approval. Seems more rugged than most and they have a good weight to them. Highly recommend!"
Available in three sizes for small, medium and large dogs, this elevated feeder comes with both a food and water bowl. Compared to standard bowls, this one allows your dog to eat more comfortably, especially those with arthritis, joint issues or limited mobility. The feeder has silicone anti-slip pads to prevent any mess. Another great thing? It's adjustable, so it can grow with your dog.
"The bowl width, depth and height of the stand is perfect," shared this Amazon shopper. "Easy assembly. Very sturdy and the nonslip legs keep the stand in place. We were a little wary of getting an elevated stand since our dog is very fussy when it comes to a strange water and food bowl, but he went right up to it and started eating. His previous bowls were smaller and close to floor. Definitely recommend and would buy again."
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
