As the loving caregivers to our furry companions, it's our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being, which includes being aware of the various foods that can be toxic to them. While it can be tempting to share a snack with your pawed pal, it's crucial to know which common household foods can pose a danger. Below, we will discuss some of these toxic foods and explain why they should be kept far from your dog's reach.

Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic treats for dogs. It contains theobromine and caffeine, which can be harmful to your pet. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate are particularly high in these compounds and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and even seizures.

Grapes & Raisins

Though small and seemingly innocuous, grapes and raisins can lead to kidney failure in dogs. The exact substance that causes this toxic reaction is not known, but it is understood that even a small amount can make a dog ill.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products, including gum, candies, and even some peanut butters. Ingestion can lead to a rapid release of insulin in dogs, resulting in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can cause vomiting, weakness, lack of coordination, seizures, and sometimes liver failure.

Onions & Garlic

Onions, garlic, and related root vegetables contain compounds that can cause gastroenteritis and damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. This is true for raw, cooked, or dehydrated forms, and for all members of the Allium family (including chives and leeks).

Alcohol

Even small amounts of alcohol, including those in food products or those that animals might ingest by accident (such as through fermented fruits or unbaked dough containing yeast) can be dangerous. Alcohol has the same effect on a dog's liver and brain as it has on humans, but it takes far less to do damage. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, breathing difficulties and even coma.

Coffee & Caffeine

Like chocolate, coffee and caffeine contain substances that are stimulants for dogs. These can cause similar symptoms, such as restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpations, and muscle tremors.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia in dogs. Signs usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last approximately 12 to 48 hours.

Avocado

Avocado contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The larger concern with avocados is the potential choking hazard posed by the pit, which can also cause an intestinal blockage.

Yeast Dough

Unbaked yeast dough can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines. Additionally, as the yeast ferments the dough to make it rise, it produces alcohol which can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Salt

Large amounts of salt can produce excessive thirst and urination, or even sodium ion poisoning in pets. Symptoms of too much salt include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, seizures and even death.

Protecting your dog from these common toxic foods can save you a trip to the emergency room, and prevent undue suffering for your pet. Always keep these foods out of reach and be mindful of what you're feeding them. If you suspect your dog has ingested a potentially toxic substance, seek immediate veterinary care.