Warning: These Treats Are Harmful to Your Dog’s Health

As pet owners, we all want to give our pets the best of everything, including treats. However, not all treats are created equal, and some can be harmful to our dogs. It’s important to know what treats are bad for dogs so that we can keep them safe and healthy.

Some of the treats that are bad for dogs include chocolate, grapes, and nuts. These foods can be toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems. In addition, other treats may not be toxic but are still unhealthy for dogs, such as those that are high in fat, sugar, or salt.

It’s important to read the labels on dog treats and to choose treats that are made with high-quality ingredients. Look for treats that are made with real meat, vegetables, and fruits, and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. By being mindful of what treats we give our dogs, we can help them stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Common Treats That Are Bad for Dogs

As a dog owner, it’s important to know which treats are safe for your pet and which ones can be harmful. Some common human foods can be toxic to dogs and cause serious health problems. In this section, we’ll explore six common treats that are bad for dogs.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a tasty treat for humans, but it’s toxic to dogs. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death in dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for dogs.

Milk chocolate is less toxic than dark chocolate, while white chocolate has very little theobromine and is not as dangerous.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are healthy snacks for humans, but they can be toxic to dogs. Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Symptoms of grape and raisin toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are commonly used in human food, but they contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells and cause anemia. Symptoms of onion and garlic toxicity include weakness, vomiting, and breathing difficulties. It’s important to note that cooked onions and garlic are just as toxic as raw ones.

Avocado

Avocado is a healthy snack for humans, but it can be toxic to dogs. Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. In severe cases, it can also cause breathing difficulties and fluid buildup in the chest. The pit and skin of the avocado are also a choking hazard for dogs.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are a tasty treat for humans, but they can cause serious health problems in dogs. Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can cause vomiting, tremors, fever, and lethargy in dogs. Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last up to 48 hours.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods. It’s safe for humans but can be deadly for dogs. Xylitol can cause a rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms of xylitol toxicity include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and even death.

It’s important to keep these common treats away from your dog to prevent health problems. If you suspect your dog has ingested any of these toxic treats, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Other Foods That Can Be Harmful to Dogs

While several treats are bad for dogs, there are also other human foods that can be harmful to our pets. In this section, we will discuss some of the foods that you should avoid giving to your dog.

Fatty Foods

Fatty foods can be harmful to dogs as they can cause pancreatitis. This condition occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Some of the fatty foods that you should avoid giving to your dog include:

• Butter and margarine
• Meat trimmings
• Gravy
• Fried foods
• Fast food

Salty Foods

Salty foods can also be harmful to dogs as they can cause sodium ion poisoning. This can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death. Some of the salty foods that you should avoid giving to your dog include:

• Chips
• Pretzels
• Saltine crackers
• Popcorn
• Cheese

Bones

While bones may seem like a natural treat for dogs, they can be quite dangerous. Bones can splinter and cause choking, blockages, or tears in the digestive system. Some of the bones that you should avoid giving to your dog include:

• Chicken bones
• Pork bones
• Beef bones
• Fish bones

Raw Meat and Fish

Raw meat and fish can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can make your dog sick. Additionally, raw fish can contain parasites that can cause serious health problems. Some of the raw meat and fish that you should avoid giving to your dog include:

• Raw chicken
• Raw pork
• Raw fish
• Raw eggs

It is important to remember that while some human foods are safe for dogs, others can be harmful or even deadly. Always do your research and consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new treats or human foods.

Healthy Treat Alternatives for Dogs

As a responsible pet owner, you want to make sure that your pet is getting the best possible nutrition. While it can be tempting to give them treats, not all treats are created equal. Some treats can be harmful to your dog’s health, leading to weight gain and other health issues.

So, what are some healthy treat alternatives for dogs?

1. One option is to give your dog fresh fruits and vegetables. These can be a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they’re low in calories. Some good options include carrots, green beans, and apples. Just make sure to cut them up into small pieces to avoid choking hazards.
2. Another healthy treatment option is lean protein. You can give your dog small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, or even some plain yogurt. These treats are high in protein and low in fat, making them a great choice for dogs who need to watch their weight.
3. If you’re looking for a more convenient option, there are plenty of healthy dog treats available on the market. Look for treats that are made with high-quality ingredients and are free from artificial preservatives and colors. Some good options include freeze-dried meat treats and dental chews.

Remember, treats should only make up a small portion of your dog’s diet. The bulk of their nutrition should come from high-quality dog food that’s appropriate for their age, breed, and activity level. By choosing healthy treat alternatives and feeding them in moderation, you can help keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come.

FAQ

What ingredients in treats are bad for dogs?

Avoid treats with these ingredients in them as they can be toxic and harmful to your dog. It won’t be until you start checking out the treat labels will you realize how common they are.

• Melamine
• BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin
• Propylene Glycol
• Carrageenan
• Meat Meal
• Food dyes or corn syrup
• MSG
• Sodium Hexametaphosphate

Are Raw Hides, Okay To Feed To Dogs?

Raw hides can cause choking and digestive obstruction as well as contamination with toxic chemicals. Do not feed your dog unless you want him to get sick.

It is important to note that meat treats containing rawhide are available on the market, apart from the whole rawhide we usually see.

Are Milk Bones Bad For Dogs?

It has been reported that Milk-Bone brand dog treats contain a preservative called BHA that is potentially harmful to dogs. U.S. authorities consider trace amounts of BHA to be safe when used to stabilize fat in food. BHA is present in many pet foods and treats, as well as in our food. BHA has not been shown to cause cancer or other illnesses in dogs or cats. 

Can My Dog Have A Meat Bone For A Treat?

Minerals and other nutrients are found in bones, which satisfy your dog’s appetite. Teeth are strengthened by chewing and gum disease is prevented by saliva enzymes. So bones can be great for a treat! 

They are both good for your dog and stimulate natural behaviors to keep them occupied and happy. 

Ensure you never feed out bones that are too small as there is a high choking risk. A good rule is to make sure the bone is always bigger than the muzzle.

Never give your dog cooked bones of any kind as they can splinter when chewed and cause your dog to invest sharp shards of bone that can cause serious injury from the mouth to the intestines. 

Can Dogs Have Cows Ears?

There are many health benefits to your dog eating cow ears on occasion, including benefits for teeth and joints.

Most dogs don’t seem to have any health implications from them, and they provide moderate chewing time.

It is important to investigate each product before purchasing, as cow ears can be sourced from a variety of places and harvested and processed in very different ways.

Are Deer Antlers Safe For Dogs?

Your dogs can chew on quality deer antlers without any risk of injury. This is because they are unlikely to split or leave sharp edges.  There is no drying out, splintering, or brittleness in deer antlers. To break them down, your dog will need time, patience, and effort, so they make perfect, long-lasting chews.

The choking risk with Deer Antlers is small, as the antler is too large to get inside the mouth of your dog whole. In saying this, you should remove them when the antler gets chewed to a small size.

Your dog will benefit from the zinc, iron, calcium, and potassium that naturally exist in antlers.

What Are The Healthiest Dog Treats?

There are many fruits and vegetables that dogs will enjoy eating. These foods contain a lot of nutrients, which makes them extremely healthy. Since many of them are staples you probably keep on hand anyway, they are often really convenient.

In addition, they are low in calories compared to many dog biscuits and similar treats. We all face challenges in maintaining a healthy weight and treating our pets, and this allows us to strike a balance between both.

Your dog may like:

• Apple
• Cooked sweet potato
• Green peas
• Watermelon
• Broccoli
• Berries

Is Peanut Butter Good For Dogs?

Your dog can be given peanut butter as long as it doesn’t contain Xylitol. This is a common additive in peanut butter as a sweetener and while it is safe for humans, it can be poisonous for cats and dogs.

Natural peanut butter that is 100% made from peanuts is the best choice for your dog and can make a nutritious and delicious treat.

Can You Feed Your Dog Too Many Treats?

Yes! You can easily overfeed your dog with treats and cause a weight problem.

Ideally, dog treats shouldn’t account for more than 10% of your dog’s total caloric intake. A diet filled with treats can make your dog fat and can make your diet unbalanced from a nutritional standpoint. 

You may also lose the effectiveness of treating your dog as a training reward if you keep providing him with food constantly.

How Often Should I Give My Dog Treats?

You should give treats only once in a while and no more than that. Treats are designed to be a reward for good behavior. Your dog will not act as if they are being given a treat if they receive them regularly.

Whenever you are giving your dog a treat, be sure to do so between meals.

The more time you give your dog between meals or at least one hour before a meal, the more likely it is that you will reinforce the idea that you are providing a treat rather than something that is part of their regular diet.

Why Is My Dog Always Hungry?

Many dogs are simply just food motivated! They will do anything for a treat, this doesn’t mean they are particularly hungry but they do want a treat. Just like we often will eat lots of treats when we aren’t truly hungry! 

Treats will stimulate behavior in your dog that is akin to desire and craving due to the positive connection that has been formed in the brain, so when they see the food they may seem very hungry.

Several health conditions can result in an increased appetite. Insatiable appetite is sometimes caused by health issues such as:

• diabetes
• tumors
• gastrointestinal issues that lead to poor absorption of nutrients

A change in appetite should be checked out with your vet. Any health issues should be ruled out or addressed.

It doesn’t matter if your dog has a learned behavior or a physical problem; uncontrolled eating doesn’t help.