What you shouldn't feed your dog and why.

As you all probably know already chocolate is bad for dogs. But do you know why? And did you know there is many other household foods that are also very dangerous, toxic and potentially deadly.

HOUSEHOLD FOODS TO NOT FEED YOUR DOG

ALCOHOL- I know some people may think it is fun to give your dog alcohol. But just a little can cause vomiting, diarrhea,nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, coma, even death. Alcohol also has the same effect on their liver and brain just like a humans. But it takes much less to effect them. And the smaller a dog the greater risk.

SALT- If given in large quantities ( such as a chip for you then a chip for Rover) it can cause electrolyte imbalances and lead to sodium ion poisoning. Symptoms of to much salt are vomiting.diarrhea,depression,tremors,fever and seizures. It may even cause death.

SUGARY FOODS- I know you can't help but share some sweets with your friend but keep it to a very minimum. It can lead to obesity, dental problems and possibly diabetes.

XYLITOL( artificial sweetener)- Can cause very low blood sugar also known as hypoglycemia, which results in vomiting, weakness and collapse. In high doses can cause liver failure. It is found in some gum, toothpaste,baked goods and diet foods.

AVOCADOS- NEVER GIVE YOUR DOG GUACAMOLE!! Avocados contain a substance called persin. Harmless to those of us that are not allergic but are toxic to dogs. Persin is in the leaves, seed and bark of the tree.

ONIONS AND GARLIC- Onion and garlic in all forms can destroy a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia. And in large quantities can lead to poisoning.

CAFFEINE- Caffeine in large quantities can be fatal for a dog. And, there is no antidote. In addition to tea and coffee caffeine can be found in cocoa, chocolate, colas, stimulating drinks such as red bull. It's also in some cold meds and pain killers.

MACADAMIA NUTS- As few as 6 raw or roasted macadamia nuts can make a dog ill. Symptoms of poisoning include muscle tremors, weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters, vomiting,fever,and rapid heart rate.

CHOCOLATE- Chocolate is bad on two counts. One the caffeine and two it contains theobromine a toxic agent. It is in all kinds of chocolate even white chocolate. The most dangerous kinds though are dark chocolate and bakers chocolate. Just licking a bowl of chocolate icing, can cause a dog to vomit, have diarrhea, and be excessively thirsty. It cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and death.

FAT TRIMMINGS AND BONES- Both are dangerous for dogs. Fat trimmings both cooked and uncooked, can cause pancreatitis. And although it seems natural to give a dog a bone a dog can choke on it. Bones also splinter and can cause obstruction and lacerations in the digestive system.

RAW MEAT AND FISH- Raw meat and fish , like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that causes food poisoning. In addition, certain kinds of fish such as salmon,trout,shad,or sturgeon can contain a parasite that causes "fish disease" If not treated the disease can be fatal within 2 weeks. The first signs of illness are vomiting, fever, and big lymph nodes. Throughly cooking the fish will kill the parasite and protect your dog.

GRAPES, RAISINS AND CURRANTS- Contain a unknown toxin that causes kidney damage.

Many other commonly found items on your kitchen shelves are also toxic such as baking powder and baking soda which both are highly toxic. Nutmeg and other spices are also. Keep pantry doors closed and food high enough and out of reach to help protect your dog.

Ok, so all of this negativity needs some positive input. What should/can you feed your furry friend?

Besides a good dog food:

LEAN MEATS- Most dogs are fine eating lean cuts of meat that have been throughly cooked. Just be sure it is boneless and with no visible fat.

SOME FRESH FRUIT- sliced apples, oranges, bananas and watermelon are great treats. (I couldn't get any of my dogs to even lick a orange though) Just make sure to remove seeds.

SOME VEGGIES- carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices, zucchini slices and baked potatoes.

Cooked white rice and pasta- This stuff is wonderful when your dog has diarrhea.( personal experience with Rosco) Mix 50/50 cooked white rice and cooked hamburger. Feed your dog that for a couple of days then slowly introduce them back to there regular food.