What foods are toxic to dogs?

Looking for more information? Follow each link to learn more about each food item’s toxic effects.

The most common or general result of toxicity by these foods is listed with each item. Be aware! Many of these foods can lead to death, depending on the age, weight, and health status of the animal and the amount they consumed.

Foods Toxic to Dogs:

• Alcohol: CNS (Central nervous system) depression, gastrointestinal upset

• Avocado: Gastrointestinal upset, possible heart tissue death

• Chocolate/coffee/caffeine: Arrhythmias, increased heart rate, seizures

• Garlic/onion/leeks/scallions/chives: Heinz Body Anemia (destruction of red blood cells leading to anemia)

• Grapes/raisins: Kidney failure

• Macadamia nuts: CNS depression

• Xylitol (sugar substitute): Decreased blood sugar (hypoglycemia), seizures

• Fruit pits (apricot, peach, cherry): Cyanide, choking, gastrointestinal obstruction

Other foods to avoid feeding your dog:

• Bread dough (raw, still rising, containing yeast): Bloat

• Citrus (in large amounts or concentrated essential oils): Gastrointestinal irritation, CNS depression

• Coconut/coconut oil: Diarrhea, pancreatitis

• Coconut water (high in potassium): Bradycardia (slowed heart rate)

• Milk/dairy: Diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset

• Nuts (high in fat content): Pancreatitis, vomiting, diarrhea

• Raw meat: Salmonella, E. coli, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis

• Bones: Choking, stomach/intestinal obstruction, perforated stomach/intestines

• Salty food: Increased thirst and urination, possible sodium ion poisoning

• Oily/fried food: Vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis

Read more:

People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

Dangerous Foods for Dogs

Foods That Can Poison Pets

Have more questions about foods that are poisonous to dogs?

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