What meat should dogs avoid

Dont Feed Your Dog These Foods, FDA Warns

The Food and Drug Administration has just confirmed what veterinarians and dog experts have been saying for years: Be wary of feeding your dog certain human foods.

On July 27, the federal agency released a warning to pet owners advising that some seemingly harmless foods can be dangeroussometimes deadlyto our canine companions.

Our bodies may break down foods or other chemicals that a dogs cant tolerate, says Dr. Carmela Stamper, an FDA veterinarian.

The top foods to avoid, according to the FDA, are:

Raw meat: Red meat and poultry can contain harmful bacteria, like E. Coli or Salmonella, and therefore should be kept out of the reach of dogs. If your pet is prone to steal foods from a counter or grill (which carries the added risk of burns), make sure to confine him while hes not supervised. Get tips on preventing counter-surfing here.

Grapes, raisins, and currants: Experts are not yet sure exactly what in these fruits causes a problem in dogs, but some canines experience acute kidney failure after ingesting them. Read more about why grapes are dangerous to dogs here.

Fried and fatty foods: In some dogs, just a few bites of a high-fat food can cause a painful, dangerous condition called pancreatitis, which occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, causing damage to it and surrounding organs. Once a dog has had a bout of pancreatitis, hes prone to reoccurrences. Be safe and hold the fries.

Moldy foods: Dogs, like people, can get food poisoning. In one study, 20 percent of dogs fed old eggs, moldy cheese, and spoiled gravy showed a mild fever when they presented to the veterinary hospital, explains Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald, columnist for AKC Family Dog. Dr. Fitzgerald recommends keeping garbage in dog-safe containers and not leaving dogs unsupervised around wastebaskets.

Onions, garlic, and chives: The FDA advises owners not only to avoid feeding these foods directly, but also to keep foods containing large amounts of these ingredients (like salsa) out of the reach of pets. Onions (and, to a much lesser degree, garlic) destroy red blood cells, causing a condition called hemolytic anemia (lack of red blood cells due to their destruction), explains AKC Family Dog Nutrition columnist Caroline Coile. When the red blood cell count gets too low, the blood cant carry oxygen to the cells, the dog weakens, and can die.

Salty snacks, in large quantities: Feeding the odd potato chip or pretzel probably wont do any harm, Stamper says. But if your dog gets into a whole bag of them, he could get really sick.

Macadamia nuts: They add texture and flavor to a white-chocolate cookie, but in dogs these nuts can cause, according to Coile, severe lethargy, increased body temperature, vomiting, tremors, joint stiffness, and loss of limb control (especially hind limbs) for the next 48 hours.

Xylitol: This sugar substitute can be found in sugarless gums, many sugar-free products, some household items, and even certain brands of peanut butter, and it is extremely dangerous to dogs. Small quantities can cause hypoglycemic episodes and lead to liver failure. Read more on why xylitol is dangerous to dogs here.

If you suspect your pet ate something that could make him sick, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the Pet Poison Helpline.

People Foods Dogs Can and Cant Eat

Dedicated dog lovers tend to be very kind people. We share our hearts and homes (and for some lucky pups, even the foot of our beds) with our canine pals. Surely there is nothing wrong with sharing our favorite people foods with our dogs too, right? Not necessarily. Many of the foods, such as fruits and vegetables, that people digest just fine can wreak havoc on a dogs body, causing severe health problems. On the other hand, some of the foods people eat can be introduced to a dogs diet just fine, and even provide health benefits such as joint strength, better breath, and allergy immunity.

But before giving your dog foods thatyoucrave, read on and learn which foods are safe, and which can send your dog straight to the emergency vet. And always be mindful that even healthy foods fed in excess can lead to canine obesity, a major health concern for U.S. dogs. Always choose a quality dog food as your dogs main diet.

Human Food Safety for Dogs

Almonds: No, dogs shouldnt eat almonds. Almonds may not necessarily be toxic to dogs like macadamia nuts are, but they can block the esophagus or even tear the windpipe if not chewed completely. Salted almonds are especially dangerous because they can increase water retention, which is potentially fatal to dogs prone to heart disease.

Bread:Yes, dogs can eat bread. Small amounts of plain bread (no spices and definitely no raisins) wont hurt your dog, but it also wont provide any health benefits either. It has no nutritional value and can really pack on the carbohydrates and calories, just like in people. Homemade breads are a better option than store-bought, as bread from the grocery store typically contains unnecessary preservatives, but its best to avoid it altogether.

Cashews:Yes, dogs can eat cashews. Cashews are OK for dogs, but only a few at a time. Theyve got calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and proteins, but while these nuts contain less fat than others, too many can lead to weight gain and other fat-related conditions. A few cashews make a nice treat, but only if theyre unsalted.

Cheese:Yes, dogs can eat cheese in small to moderate quantities. As long as your dog isnt lactose intolerant, which is rare, but still possible in canines, cheese can be a great treat. Many kinds of cheese can be high in fat, so go for lower-fat varieties like cottage cheese or mozzarella. Many dogs enjoy their very own dog-specific Himalayan dog chew made of dried cheese (but we dont recommend sharing it).

Chocolate:No, dogs should never eat chocolate. This isnt just an urban legend. Chocolate contains toxic substances called methylxanthines, which are stimulants that stop a dogs metabolic process. Even just a little bit of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, can causediarrheaandvomiting. A large amount can cause seizures, irregular heart function, and even death. Do not have chocolate in an accessible location for your dog. If your dog does ingest chocolate, contact a veterinarian orPet Poison Helplineas soon as possible.

Cinnamon: No, dogs shouldnt eat cinnamon. While cinnamon is not actually toxic to dogs, its probably best to avoid it. Cinnamon and its oils can irritate the inside of dogs mouths, making them uncomfortable and sick. It can lower a dogs blood sugar too much and can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, increased, or decreased heart rate, and even liver disease. If they inhale it in powder form, cinnamon can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and choking.

Coconut: Yes, coconut is OK for dogs. This funky fruit contains lauric acid, which can help combat bacteria and viruses. It can also help with bad breath and clearing up skin conditions like hot spots, flea allergies, and itchy skin. Coconut milk and coconut oil are safe for dogs too. Just be sure your dog doesnt get its paws on the furry outside of the shell, which can get lodged in the throat.

Corn:Yes, dogs can eat corn. Corn is one of the most common ingredients in most dog foods. However, the cob can be hard for a dog to digest and may cause an intestinal blockage, so if youre sharing some corn, make sure it is off the cob. (Or just opt for a squeaky corn toy instead.)

Eggs: Yes,dogs can eat eggs. Eggs are safe for dogs as long as they are fully cooked. Cooked eggs are a wonderful source of protein and can help an upset stomach. However, eating raw egg whites can contribute to biotin deficiency, so be sure to cook the eggs all the way through before giving them to your pet.

Fish:Yes, dogs can eat fish. Fish contains good fats and amino acids, giving your dog a nice health boost. Salmon and sardines are especially beneficial salmon because its loaded with vitamins and protein, and sardines because they have soft, digestible bones for extra calcium. With the exception of sardines, be sure to pick out all the tiny bones, which can be tedious but is definitely necessary. Never feed your dog uncooked or undercooked fish, only fully cooked and cooled, and limit your dogs fish intake to no more than twice a week.

Garlic: No, dogs shouldnt eat garlic. Like onions, leeks, and chives, garlic is part of the Allium family, and it is five times more toxic to dogs than the rest of the Allium plants. Garlic can create anemia in dogs, causing side effects such as pale gums, elevated heart rate, weakness, and collapse. Poisoning from garlic and onions may have delayed symptoms, so if you think your dog may have eaten some, monitor him or her for a few days, not just right after consumption.

Ham: Yes, dogs can eat ham. Ham is OK for dogs to eat, but certainly isnt the healthiest for them. Ham is high in sodium and fat, so while sharing a small piece is all right, it shouldnt be a continuous habit.

Honey: Yes, dogs can eat honey. Honey is packed with countless nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, and antioxidants. Feeding dogs small amounts of honey can help with allergies because it introduces small amounts of pollen to their systems, building up immunity to allergens in your area. In addition to consuming honey, the sticky spread can also be used as a topical treatment for burns and superficial cuts.

Ice cream:No, dogs shouldnt eat ice cream. As refreshing of a treat as ice cream is, it contains lots of sugar so it is best not to share with your dog. Also, some dogs have an intolerance to lactose. To avoid the milk altogether, freeze chunks of strawberries, raspberries, apples, and pineapples to give to your dog as a sweet, icy treat.

Macadamia nuts: No, dogs should never eat macadamia nuts. These are some of the most poisonous foods for dogs. Macadamia nuts, part of the Protaceae family, can cause vomiting, increased body temperature, inability to walk, and lethargy. Even worse, they can affect the nervous system. Never feed your dog macadamia nuts.

Milk:Yes, dogs can have milk. But be cautious. Some dogs are lactose-intolerant and dont digest milk well. While it is OK for dogs to have a little milk, owners should be cognizant of the symptoms of lactose-intolerance and might want to stick to giving their dogs water.

Peanut butter: Yes, peanut butter is OK for dogs. Peanut butter can be an excellent source of protein for dogs. It contains heart-healthy fats, vitamins B and E and niacin. Raw, unsalted peanut butter is the healthiest option. Read the label carefully to be sure the peanut butter does not containxylitol, a sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs.

Peanuts:Yes, dogs can eat peanuts. Unlike almonds, peanuts are safe for dogs to eat. Theyre packed with good fats and proteins that can benefit your dog. Just be sure to give peanuts in moderation, as you dont want your dog taking in too much fat, which can lead to pancreas issues. Also, avoid salted peanuts. Too much salt is hard for dogs to process.

Popcorn: Yes, dogs can eat popcorn. Unsalted, unbuttered, air-popped popcorn is OK for your dog in moderation. It contains riboflavin and thiamine, both of which promote eye health and digestion, as well as small amounts of iron and protein. Be sure to pop the kernels all the way before giving them to your dog, as unpopped kernels could become a choking hazard.

Pork: Yes, dogs can eat pork. Pork isa highly digestible protein, packed with amino acids, and it contains more calories per pound than other meats. Pork also may be less likely to cause an allergic reaction in some pets compared to other proteins.

Quinoa:Yes, quinoa is OK for dogs. You can now find quinoa in some high-quality dry dog foods. The strong nutritional profile of quinoa makes it a healthy alternative to corn, wheat, and soy starches that are often used to make kibble.

Salmon:Yes, dogs can eat salmon. As mentioned above, fully cooked salmon is an excellent source of protein, good fats, and amino acids. It promotes joint and brain health and gives dog-immune systems a nice boost. However, raw or undercooked salmon contains parasites that can make dogs very sick, causing vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and, in extreme cases, even death. Be sure to cook salmon all the way through (the FDA recommends at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit) and the parasites should cook out.

Shrimp:Yes, shrimp is OK for dogs. A few shrimp every now and then is fine for your dog, but only if they are fully cooked and the shell (including the tail, head, and legs) is removed completely. Shrimp are high in antioxidants, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus, but also low in fat, calories, and carbohydrates.

Tuna:Yes, dogs can eat tuna, but only in small amounts. In moderation, cooked, fresh tuna is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promotes heart and eye health. As for canned tuna, it contains small amounts of mercury and sodium, which should be avoided in excess. A little bit of canned tuna and tuna juice here and there is fine prepared only in water, not oil as long as it doesnt contain any spices.

Turkey:Yes, dogs can eat turkey. Turkey is fine for dogs, but be sure to remove excess fat and skin from the meat. Dont forget to check for bones; poultry bones can splinter during digestion, causing blockage or even tears in the intestines. Any meat with excessive salt, seasonings, onions or garlic should not be fed.

Wheat/grains:Yes, dogs can eat wheat and other grains. Dogs do not have to be grain-free; it is perfectly OK for them to have grains. In fact, grains like wheat and corn are great sources of protein, essential fatty acids, and fiber. If your dog has certain allergies, however, it might be best to avoid grains, but it truly depends on your dog. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Yogurt:Yes, yogurt is OK for dogs. Plain yogurt is a perfectly acceptable snack for dogs. However, some dogs may have trouble digesting dairy products. If your dog can digest it, the active bacteria in yogurt can help strengthen the digestive system with probiotics. Plain yogurt is the best choice. Avoid any yogurts with added sugar, and skip all yogurt with artificial sweeteners.