Toxic food for dogs - chocolate and other foods



Toxic food for dogs can include many foods that people eat on a daily basis. You will probably be just as surprised as I was to know what and how many types of foods are toxic. You need to be aware of these foods before sharing part of your meal or treat with your dachshund.


Depending on the type of toxin involved the signs of poisoning can vary but here are some symptoms.


  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea
  • Increased urine production
  • Seizures
  • Hyperactivity
  • Twitching muscles
  • Restlessness


Toxic food for dogs


Chocolate contains a compound called therobromine which is a cardiac stimulant and diuretic. Dogs eating chocolate can be affected in a number of ways which can include becoming overexcited, hyperactive or in severe cases, seizures, coma and possible death.

The smaller the dog the small the amount of chocolate needed to become toxic. You can buy special chocolate treats for dogs, which are non-toxic.


Onion and garlic but especially onions are toxic to dogs causing hemolytic anaemia; this is where the red blood cells rupture while in the blood stream causing anaemia.

Most dogs do tolerate small amounts of onions with no ill effects. Poisoning can occur after a large quantity or after several meals containing onion. It may take a few days after eating the onion to show the symptoms with include, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and loss of appetite.  

All forms of onion, dehydrated, raw, cooked and table scraps containing onion or garlic, pizza, chinese food, baby food are toxic.


Fruit Pips – apple core pips, pear pips, kernels of plums, peaches, apricots, these all contain cyanogenic glycosides with can result in cyanide poisoning.

Raisins and grapes, it is not known the amount that is consumed that causes toxicity in dogs, but it could be as low as 7 or 8 depending on the size of the dog. Symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea may drink and urinate more at the start, loss of appetite/weight, dry coat finally resulting in coma.

If you suspect your dog may have eaten a number of raisins or grapes and is unwell, consult your vet promptly.


Macadamia nuts and macadamia butter is known to have affected dogs who have consumed as few as 6 nuts out of the shell. They suffer high temperature and heartbeat muscle tremors, weakness in the hindquarters making it hard to stand, limbs may also be swollen. Showing distress and panting. 

Avocado and the seed pit are both toxic. Avocado flesh contains a toxic element called persin which can cause damage to tissues in the heart and lungs in many animals.


The high fat content can also cause vomiting and general stomach upset and perhaps even pancreatitis.

The seed pit is toxic but because of its size it may cause a serious blockage in the intestinal tract which may require surgery.  So remember the guacamole dip is all for you not for your dachshund friend.

 

Moldy or spoiled food can cause food poisoning. Moldy food can contain tremorgenic micro-toxins, symptoms of poisoning include severe tremors and seizures that may last days, you need to seek help from your vet. Symptoms of poisoning from spoilt food include vomiting, diarrhea and shock. Ensure your dog does not get access to garbage cans, compost bin (from neighbors) or fridge throw -outs.

 

Yeast dough as you may probably be aware expands greatly and produces gas in the digestive tract causing possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.


Caffeine, coffee beans, grounds and tea, tea bags, have many of the same symptoms as dogs eating chocolate show.

Raw eggs may contain salmonella. They also contain a protein called avidin which decreases the absorption of biotin which is very important in your dog’s growth and coat health. Symptoms of loss of biotin are hair loss, weakness, slow growth and skeletal deformity, veterinary treatment is required. Cooked eggs are a good high protein treat for your dog; it is only raw eggs that are a problem.

 

Candy/sweets and sugar-less candy is a common toxic food for dogs as it contains a compound called xylitol; even a small amount of xylitol can cause liver failure and death.

 

Milk and some dairy products are not good for dogs as they contain lactose. There are products on the market that are suitable for pets that are lactose-free.

 

Cooked bones are not good to give your dog, as they are more likely to splinter causing possible damage to internal organs.

Toxic food for dogs - how to protect your dachshund ?

 

  • Feed your dachshund a diet that is nutritionally balanced.
  • Do not allow your dog to scavenge food or packages from rubbish bins or storage areas.

  • Never leave uneaten food, eg… cake, chocolate, sweets or snacks where your dog can access.
  • Don't encourage feeding your dog from your dinner table.


Other pages of interest


Healthy dog food

Natural dog food

Healthy dog treats



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The information given on this site,is compiled from our
knowledge and research and is designed to supplement
not replace your vets or other professionals advice.

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