Five foods you should never feed to your pet dog

While good for humans, grapes – and the dried version, which are raisins – are dangerous for dogs.

Should a dog be given raisins to snack on, or sneakily fetch some for him or herself if it’s accidentally dropped onto the floor, then a vet visit might be required.

According to Protectivity, even small amounts of grapes and raisins can cause canine kidney failure, which sounds scary and, in all honesty, it really is.

Blue Cross verified that acute kidney disease can be caused by the “consumption of something toxic”, and all pet owners should be aware of the signs of a potential health crisis.

The animal charity recommended pet owners to take their sickly pets to “see the vet as soon as possible”, who is professionally trained in animal care.

Signs of canine kidney disease can include:

• Drinking excessively and urinating more frequently
• Soiling in the home
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Pale gums
• Ulcers in the mouth
• Overall weakness
• Fragile bones

Another healthy treat best reserved for people, and not canines, are roasted or raw macadamia nuts, which are great snacks for humans aiming to lose weight as the nuts are filling and low in calories, but aren’t so great for your pet dog.

“They can cause weakness, vomiting and hypothermia in dogs,” the specialists at Protectivity warned, adding that onions and garlic are just as damaging.

Any form of onion and garlic, whether it be powdered, raw, dehydrated or cooked, can destroy a dog’s red blood cells and lead to anaemia.

Anaemia in dogs

VCA Animal Hospitals said the “most easily observed” clinical sign of anaemia in a dog is pale gums. Dogs suffering from anaemia have little stamina or energy because of damaged red blood cells, so may collapse with exertion, such as dropping down mid-run.

Again, any concern over your pet should be addressed by a professional vet who has been specially trained in the medical care for animals. 

Protectivity added that dairy products are also off limits as yoghurt, cheese and milk can lead to digestive issues as many dogs are lactose intolerant.

Like humans who are lactose intolerant, the consumption of dairy in dogs can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating and stomach pains.

A Protectivity spokesperson said: “It can be tempting to indulge our four-legged friends, but these actions can have dangerous consequences. It’s important to remember that food that is healthy for you isn’t always good for them.”

Chewing gum should also not be given to dogs as it can lead to a surge in blood sugar in your pet pooch and lead to health issues.

Five foods not to feed dogs:

1. Grapes and raisin
2. Dairy products
3. Macadamia nuts
4. Onions and garlic
5. Chewing gum