• Not Safe Foods and Toxic Substances

Not Safe Foods and Toxic Substances

⚠️ TOXIC FOODS & SUBSTANCES FOR DOGS

Many common household foods and substances that are safe for people can be dangerous—or even life-threatening—for dogs. Puppies are especially at risk because they are curious and often explore the world with their mouths.

Keeping toxic items out of reach and educating all family members can help prevent an emergency.

🚫 Foods & Substances to Avoid

🍫 High-Cocoa Chocolate, Coffee & Caffeine

High-cocoa chocolate contains large amounts of theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to dogs.

The darker and more concentrated the chocolate, the greater the risk.

Highest-risk products include:

  • Baking chocolate

  • Dark chocolate

  • Cocoa powder

  • High-cocoa chocolate bars

  • Chocolate-covered coffee beans

Possible signs of toxicity:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea

  • Restlessness or hyperactivity

  • Excessive panting

  • Tremors

  • Increased heart rate

  • Seizures

⚠️ Even small amounts of high-cocoa chocolate can be dangerous, especially for puppies and small dogs.

🍇 Grapes & Raisins

Even small amounts may cause sudden kidney failure in some dogs.

Watch for:

  • Vomiting

  • Lethargy

  • Loss of appetite

  • Increased thirst

Seek veterinary attention immediately.

🧅 Onions, Garlic, Chives & Leeks

These foods can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.

Symptoms may include:

  • Weakness

  • Pale gums

  • Rapid breathing

  • Reduced energy

Cooked, raw, powdered, and dehydrated forms can all be harmful.

🍬 Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

Found in:

  • Sugar-free gum

  • Sugar-free candy

  • Some peanut butters

  • Dental products

Xylitol can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and severe liver damage.

Signs include:

  • Weakness

  • Vomiting

  • Collapse

  • Seizures

🚬 THC, Cannabis & Marijuana Products

Dogs are highly sensitive to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana.

Common sources of exposure include:

  • Marijuana butts or roaches found in parks

  • Edible cannabis products

  • THC gummies

  • Cannabis oils

  • Dried marijuana

  • Cannabis-infused baked goods

⚠️ Marijuana butts discarded in parks, trails, sidewalks, and public spaces are becoming a common source of accidental poisoning in dogs.

Signs of THC toxicity may include:

  • Disorientation or confusion

  • Wobbling or difficulty walking

  • Excessive sleepiness

  • Dilated pupils

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Vomiting

  • Tremors

  • Low body temperature

  • Seizures in severe cases

Seek veterinary assistance immediately if cannabis exposure is suspected.

🥜 Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts may cause:

  • Weakness

  • Tremors

  • Vomiting

  • Difficulty walking

🍺 Alcohol

Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs and may cause:

  • Vomiting

  • Disorientation

  • Breathing difficulties

  • Coma

🍞 Raw Yeast Dough

As dough rises in the stomach it can expand and produce alcohol, creating a potentially life-threatening emergency.

🥑 Avocados

Large quantities may cause stomach upset, and pits present a choking hazard.

🍒 Fruit Pits & Seeds

Avoid:

  • Apple seeds

  • Cherry pits

  • Peach pits

  • Plum pits

These can contain compounds that release cyanide and may also cause intestinal blockages.

💊 Human Medications

Never give human medications unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.

Common medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and cold medications can be extremely toxic.

Weed Killer, Fertilizer, Plant Food, Household Fragrance sprays and Atomizers; These are all potential poisons that can harm your dog.

🚨 Signs of Poisoning

Seek veterinary assistance if your dog develops:

❌ Vomiting

❌ Diarrhea

❌ Excessive drooling

❌ Weakness

❌ Tremors

❌ Difficulty walking

❌ Difficulty breathing

❌ Seizures

❌ Collapse

❌ Unusual sleepiness or confusion

☎️ If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

  1. Stay calm.

  2. Remove access to the substance.

  3. Note what was eaten and approximately how much.

  4. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

  5. Follow professional guidance before attempting home treatment.

🐾 Prevention Is Best

Store toxic foods and substances securely, supervise curious puppies, and educate all family members about items that should never be shared with dogs.

A few moments of prevention can help protect your dog's health and save a life.

🌿 Lakewood Ranch Doodles 

Partnering with you for successful dog ownership 🐾