Many substances are lurking in your home that are dangerous for your dog. While you’re probably familiar with the more common ones, there are other dangers you might not be aware of.
Read on to find out what these substances are, why they’re harmful and practical tips to help avoid poisoning incidents. We’ll also guide you through the steps to take if your dog consumes something poisonous and the key symptoms to watch out for.
Some foods that you enjoy and would consider healthy or safe can pose a risk to your dog. Here are some common foods that are dangerous for your dog:
Alcohol should never be given to your dog, as it can cause disorientation, vomiting, urination problems, coma and other serious health issues.
Avocado contains a chemical called persin, which can be toxic to your dog in large amounts, resulting in diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Chocolate contains chemicals called theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to your dog. Dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and baking chocolate are especially dangerous and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, increased heart rate, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures.
Even small amounts of grapes or raisins can be toxic to your dog. Eating these can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and decreased urine production, which can lead to kidney failure.
Mouldy food is very dangerous to dogs due to mycotoxins, toxic compounds produced by moulds. Eating mouldy food can lead to stomach upsets, liver damage, and even seizures and neurological effects. To keep your dog safe, dispose of any mouldy food promptly and ensure they cannot access bins, food recycling caddies, or compost where mouldy food may be.
Onions and garlic, in all forms, including raw, cooked, and powdered can damage your dog's red blood cells, leading to a condition called anaemia. Symptoms of anaemia include weakness, pale gums, and increased heart rate.
This artificial sweetener is found in many sugar-free products, such as chewing gum, sweets, baked goods, and even some peanut butter brands. Xylitol consumption can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar levels, leading to weakness, seizures, and potential liver damage.
Other harmful foods include:
It's crucial to store cleaning products securely in locked cabinets or high shelves away from your dog. Additionally, monitor your dog during and after cleaning to prevent accidental ingestion from licking freshly cleaned surfaces. Here are a few examples of cleaning products that can be highly toxic if ingested:
Ammonia-based cleaning products, such as glass cleaners or floor cleaners, can harm your dog if swallowed, causing irritation to the respiratory tract, eyes, and gastrointestinal system.
Household bleach contains chemicals that can cause damage to the mouth and throat and result in vomiting and diarrhoea if ingested. However, if bleach is consumed in larger quantities, this can lead to very serious health issues.
Certain disinfectants, especially those containing phenols, can be toxic to your dog. Ingestion or prolonged exposure to these chemicals can lead to vomiting and diarrhoea, respiratory issues, and even organ damage.
Oven cleaning products typically contain strong chemicals like lye or caustic soda. Ingesting these substances can cause severe mouth and stomach problems for your dog.
Toilet cleaners often contain strong chemicals, including bleach and corrosive substances. If your dog drinks from or licks a recently cleaned toilet bowl, it can result in severe vomiting and diarrhoea and chemical burns.
While medications are designed to help humans, they can be toxic for your dog if ingested. Here are some examples of common household medications that can be toxic:
All medication should be securely stored somewhere that is inaccessible to your dog. If you suspect your dog has ingested any medication, contact your vet immediately.
You might be surprised by how many common houseplants and flowers are toxic to your dog. Here are a few commonly found house plants and flowers that you should be aware of:
While aloe vera has various benefits for humans, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and potential changes in urine colour for your dog.
Also known as 'dumb cane', this common houseplant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed or ingested by your dog, it can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.
Various species of lilies can be highly toxic to your dog if ingested. Even small amounts of lily pollen or petals can cause severe kidney damage.
Often called 'Devil's ivy', pothos is a trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause mouth irritation, swelling, and discomfort if ingested.
This popular indoor plant contains toxins in its leaves and seeds. Ingesting any part of the sago palm can cause liver failure, resulting in severe illness and health issues.
If you suspect your dog has swallowed something poisonous, take immediate action and follow these steps:
If you’re a guide dog owner and have a non-urgent query please contact our Guide Line, and we will be happy to help with any queries or concerns. If your guide dog has ingested something poisonous, always contact your vet immediately for emergency help and then let us know via Guide Line or the out of hours number on 0345 143 021.
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We create educational and informative content to share our 90-plus years’ worth of canine expertise. This content is periodically reviewed as we continue to embrace new knowledge and scientific insights to improve how we breed, raise, train, and partner our dogs.
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