Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat

Dogs may be man’s best friend, but that doesn’t mean they should eat the same foods we do. Some foods that are edible for humans may be harmful (and even fatal) for dogs.

Milk and Other Dairy Products

Yes, even dogs can be lactose intolerant. If your dog vomits or has diarrhea after consuming dairy products, it’s best for him to switch to other types of meals, such as dog food without corn.

Avocado

Nearly every part of the avocado plant contains a toxin called persin, which is known to cause gastrointestinal problems, respiratory distress, and fluid accumulation around the heart. Although the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that avocado ingredients in pet foods are generally not hazardous, it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to meals for your beloved dog.

Chocolate

Does your dog wag his tail every time he sees you open a Hershey’s bar? Tempting as it is to share with him the heavenly taste of chocolate, keep in mind that this food has caffeine and theobromine. Together, these substances can cause toxicosis (which, in turn, can lead to death) in dogs.

Fruit Seeds and Pits

When you throw away apple seeds, persimmon seeds, plum pits, peach pits, and cherry pits, make sure you don’t let your dog get anywhere near them. Otherwise, your pup will suffer from a host of gastrointestinal problems, such as obstruction, enteritis, and diarrhea. You can use dog food without corn to distract your dog from the garbage bin where you dumped these seeds and pits.

Mushrooms

Commercially sold mushrooms appear to have no negative effects on canines. However, the ones that grow in the wild can poison your pooch, so it’s a good idea to regularly clear your yard of these. In case your dog displays signs of mushroom poisoning (e.g. vomiting, diarrhea, nervous system abnormalities, fever), bring him to the veterinarian along with a sample of the offending mushroom.

Onions and Garlic

All members of the onion family—scallions, garlic, shallots, leeks, and (of course) onions—are off-limits to your dog. According to the ASPCA, these foods have compounds that destroy a dog’s red blood cells. In severe cases of toxicosis caused by onions, your veterinarian may recommend blood transfusions

Tree Nuts

Tree nuts include Brazil nuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts. Although they only contain low levels of the poison Aflatoxin, your dog’s hypersensitivity to this toxin can be problematic in case of ingestion. Peanut butter treats are fine, but raw peanuts aren’t.

Xylitol

Ever wondered what makes those low-calorie snacks sweet, despite the lack of sugar? It’s xylitol. This sweetener is safe for humans, but it can make your dog’s blood sugar levels drop. Bring your dog to the veterinarian as soon as he swallows products with xylitol.

Corn

There are four reasons you should choose dog food without corn. First, corn raises your dog’s sugar levels. Second, it’s one of the identified food allergens that affect dogs. Third, it’s not easily digestible in its whole grain form. Fourth, it has little, if any, nutritional value to your dog.

For the best dog food without corn, choose any one of our Dog Treat  flavors . Not only are you choosing a healthy and nutritious food for your dog, but you’re also contributing to the well-being of dogs under the care of dog rescue organizations!

Rocky Kanaka

Rocky Kanaka is an entrepreneur, pet rescue advocate and dog dad to a rescue boxer named Flip, a blind Cane Corso called Kobe, and a terrier mix named Zoey. He's also a pet chef and owner of The Dog Bakery, which specializes in dog birthday cakes and fresh baked dog treats. His three dogs can't get enough of the dog cakes and treats!

Lorna Ladd

Lorna Paxton Ladd is a passionate dog lover and enthusiast of The Dog Bakery. She loves spoiling her 3 rescue dogs with dog cakes and jerky. A 15 year veteran in the pet industry, her aim is to educate pet parents on the best recipes, products, tips and tricks to optimize the human/canine bond. Her favorite product at The Dog Bakery are the customizable dog birthday cakes.