What Foods can Harm Your Dog?

Like any dog owner, you are probably aware that feeding your dog chocolate can cause him severe illness and possibly even death. However, did you know that chocolate isn’t the only "human food" that can prove harmful or fatal to your dog?

Onions, even if they are cooked, can cause an illness known as "Heinz body anemia." This can also lead to kidney damage. Even if you've fed your dog onions before with no problems, you should stop, as onion poisoning can accumulate over time.

All types of grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure. For a small dog, in only takes 4 or 5 to cause harm.

Raw potatoes - you say potato, your dog says "poison." Raw potatoes, especially if they have green skin, contain a toxic compound called solanine. However, once potatoes are thoroughly cooked, they are a safe and healthy source of starch for your dog.

Macadamia nuts. These nuts contain an unknown toxin that can make your dog very, very sick.

There are many other foods that can prove a threat your dog’s health. You may be thinking to yourself, "My dog has eaten some of these foods plenty of times without suffering any harm." You are very lucky that your pet got away unscathed from the health concerns that can result from eating these foods. However, it is best that you cease feeding your dog all of these foods to ensure that he remains healthy.

Feel free to visit Dog Food for Life to learn more about the foods that can prove harmful or even fatal to your dog.

If your dog has consumed a particularly large amount of any of these foods, you might consider taking a trip to the vet’s office to make doubly sure that your pet is indeed in good health. Sometimes issues can brew over time with exposure to harmful foods, so it’s better to be safe than sorry!

To many of us, we feel as though our pets are a true member of the family. We should take the extra care to make sure that we are not inadvertently endangering our dog’s health. It’s easy to feel that giving your dog a piece of chocolate or a handful of grapes every now and then is just a way to show your dog you love him by "treating" him. Instead of providing him with harmful treats, why not purchase treats that are specifically intended for dogs? You could even whip up some tasty treats yourself! The Dog Food for Life eBook has tons of great recipes for dog food and treats, as well as other helpful information regarding doggy hygiene and diet.