Toxic to dogs

Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine that can be toxic to dogs. Theobromine belongs to a group of compounds called methylxanthines, which are also found in coffee, tea, and some medications.

The amount of theobromine in chocolate can vary depending on the type of chocolate and the amount ingested. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate contain higher amounts of theobromine compared to milk chocolate and white chocolate.

Ingestion of chocolate by dogs can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog. Mild symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and restlessness, while more severe symptoms can include tremors, seizures, elevated heart rate, hyperactivity, and in severe cases, death.

The onset of symptoms can vary depending on the amount and type of chocolate ingested, but they typically appear within a few hours of ingestion. The severity of symptoms can also depend on the size of the dog, with smaller dogs being more susceptible to the toxic effects of chocolate.

If you suspect your dog has ingested chocolate, it is important to contact your vet immediately.

Grapes and raisins are commonly consumed by humans as a healthy snack, but they can be toxic to dogs. The toxic substance in grapes and raisins is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be a compound or a combination of compounds that are unique to these fruits.

Ingestion of grapes or raisins by dogs can cause acute kidney injury, which can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. The severity of the toxicity can vary depending on the amount of grapes or raisins ingested and the size of the dog. Some dogs may be more susceptible to the toxic effects than others.

Symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, decreased appetite, and decreased urination. These symptoms may appear within hours or days of ingestion. As the toxicity progresses, the dog may develop dehydration, anemia, and eventually kidney failure.

If you suspect your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, it is important to contact your vet immediately. 

It is important to note that not all dogs are affected by grapes and raisins, and the toxic threshold can vary widely among individuals. It is best to avoid feeding grapes or raisins to your dog, and to keep these foods out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

Onions and garlic are commonly used as flavoring ingredients in many human foods, but they can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts or over a prolonged period. The toxic compounds in onions and garlic are thiosulphate and N-propyl disulphide, which can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells and lead to anemia.

Symptoms of onion and garlic toxicity in dogs may not appear for several days after ingestion and can include weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, pale gums, and dark urine. In severe cases, the dog may collapse, experience rapid breathing and heart rate, and require immediate veterinary attention.

The toxic dose of onions or garlic can vary depending on the size of the dog and the amount ingested. In general, a single serving of onion or garlic is unlikely to cause toxicity in a large dog, but even small amounts can be dangerous for small breeds or dogs with pre-existing health conditions.

It is important to note that cooked onions and garlic are less toxic than raw, as the cooking process breaks down some of the toxic compounds. However, it is best to avoid feeding any form of onion or garlic to your dog, including onion powder or garlic salt, as these can still contain high levels of the toxic compounds.

If you suspect your dog has ingested onions or garlic, it is important to contact your vet immediately.

Avocado is a fruit that is often used in human cuisine, particularly in guacamole and as a sandwich filling. However, the fruit and the leaves, bark, and seeds of the avocado plant contain a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs.

The toxicity of avocado to dogs varies depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog. Ingestion of small amounts of avocado flesh is generally not harmful, but larger amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea.

The avocado pit or seed is particularly problematic, as it is large and can become lodged in the digestive tract, leading to intestinal blockage, which can require surgery to remove. Ingestion of the pit can also cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In rare cases, dogs may experience more severe symptoms of avocado toxicity, including difficulty breathing, fluid accumulation around the heart and lungs, and even death. This is more common in dogs with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart disease or respiratory issues.

It is important to note that not all dogs are affected by avocado toxicity, and some may be able to tolerate small amounts without any adverse effects. However, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding avocado or any foods that contain avocado to your dog.

If you suspect your dog has ingested avocado or the pit, it is important to contact your vet immediately

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is commonly used in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and other products. While xylitol is safe for humans to consume, it is highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe and potentially life-threatening symptoms.

Xylitol is rapidly absorbed into a dog's bloodstream and causes a surge of insulin to be released, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This can occur within 10-60 minutes of ingestion and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, loss of coordination, lethargy, and seizures.

Ingestion of larger amounts of xylitol can cause liver damage and can be fatal. Symptoms of liver damage may not appear for several days after ingestion and can include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and decreased appetite.

It is important to note that the amount of xylitol that can cause toxicity in dogs is much lower than the amount of sugar needed to cause similar effects. Even small amounts of xylitol can be toxic, and it is important to keep any products containing xylitol out of reach of dogs.

Alcohol is highly toxic to dogs, and even small amounts can cause serious health problems. The effects of alcohol on dogs are similar to the effects on humans, but dogs are much more sensitive to the toxic effects of alcohol.

Ingestion of alcohol can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, confusion, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can occur within 30-60 minutes of ingestion and can be life-threatening in severe cases.

Alcohol can also cause central nervous system depression, leading to coma and even death. Dogs are at a higher risk of alcohol toxicity if they are small in size, have pre-existing health conditions, or are exposed to high concentrations of alcohol, such as in concentrated cleaning solutions.

It is important to note that not all alcoholic beverages are created equal. Different types of alcohol have different levels of toxicity, and dogs may be more sensitive to some types of alcohol than others. For example, beer and wine typically have a lower alcohol content than distilled spirits, but they can still be dangerous if ingested in large amounts.

Macadamia nuts are another food that is toxic to dogs. The exact mechanism of toxicity is not known, but ingestion of macadamia nuts can cause symptoms such as weakness, tremors, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), vomiting, and diarrhea.

Symptoms typically occur within 12 hours of ingestion and can last up to 48 hours. While macadamia nut toxicity is rarely fatal, it can be uncomfortable and distressing for dogs.

It is important to note that dogs do not need to ingest large amounts of macadamia nuts to experience toxicity. As little as one nut per pound of body weight can cause symptoms.

There are many human medications that are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Here are some examples:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can cause gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney damage in dogs. Symptoms of NSAID toxicity may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and lethargy.

• Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) can cause liver damage and damage to red blood cells in dogs. Symptoms may include vomiting, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face or paws.

• Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can cause neurological symptoms such as agitation, tremors, seizures, and coma in dogs.

• Blood pressure medications: Blood pressure medications such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers can cause hypotension (low blood pressure) and heart failure in dogs.

• Antihistamines: While some antihistamines are safe for dogs in low doses, other antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and cetirizine can cause sedation, agitation, and seizures in dogs.

• ADD/ADHD medications: Stimulant medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as amphetamines and methylphenidate, can cause tremors, seizures, hyperthermia, and heart failure in dogs.

It is important to note that this is not a comprehensive list, and there are many other medications that can be toxic to dogs. If you suspect your dog has ingested medication, it is important to contact your vet immediately

Rat and mouse poisons are typically used to control rodent populations, but they can be extremely dangerous to dogs if ingested. There are several types of rat and mouse poisons, but the most common ones contain anticoagulants, which are substances that prevent blood from clotting.

When a dog ingests anticoagulant rat or mouse poison, the poison interferes with their ability to produce blood clots, which can lead to uncontrolled bleeding. Symptoms may not appear until several days after ingestion and can include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, and bloody urine or stool.

If left untreated, anticoagulant rat or mouse poison ingestion can be fatal. However, with prompt and appropriate treatment from your vet, most dogs can recover fully.

Depending on the severity of the poisoning, your vet may also recommend blood transfusions or other treatments to address the uncontrolled bleeding.

It is important to keep rat and mouse poisons out of reach of dogs and other pets. If you need to use these products, choose a bait station that is inaccessible to pets or use alternative methods of rodent control that do not involve toxic substances.

Household cleaners are designed to clean and disinfect surfaces in your home, but many of these products can be toxic to dogs if ingested or inhaled. Common household cleaners that can be dangerous to dogs include:

• Bleach: Bleach can cause chemical burns to the mouth, throat, and stomach if ingested. It can also irritate the skin and eyes if exposed to them.

• Ammonia: Ammonia is often found in glass cleaners and can cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. Ingestion can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.

• Disinfectants: Disinfectants such as Lysol and Pine-Sol contain chemicals that can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems if inhaled.

• Oven cleaners: Oven cleaners often contain caustic chemicals that can burn the skin and eyes if exposed to them. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress.

• Drain cleaners: Drain cleaners contain powerful chemicals that can cause chemical burns if they come into contact with the skin or eyes. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potentially fatal internal injuries.

If your dog ingests household cleaners or is exposed to them in other ways, it is important to contact your vet immediately

Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks contain methylxanthines, which are compounds that can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Methylxanthines can cause a range of symptoms, including restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and seizures.

The amount of caffeine in a drink or food can vary widely, and small dogs are more susceptible to caffeine toxicity than larger dogs. As a general rule, any amount of caffeine can be dangerous for dogs, and it is best to keep these drinks out of reach.

There are several common household plants that can be toxic to dogs if ingested. These plants contain various chemicals and compounds that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild gastrointestinal upset to more serious issues such as organ failure or even death. Here are some examples:

• Aloe Vera: While aloe vera is often used topically to soothe skin irritation, ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and a loss of appetite.

• Sago Palm: This plant contains cycasin, a toxic compound that can cause severe liver damage and even death if ingested by dogs.

• Easter Lily: This popular springtime plant contains toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney failure in cats and dogs.

• Poinsettia: Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are only mildly toxic to dogs and typically cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

• Philodendron: This common houseplant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat if ingested.

• Dieffenbachia: Another plant that contains calcium oxalate crystals, dieffenbachia can cause severe burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat, as well as vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

• Peace Lily: The peace lily contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat, as well as vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

• Snake Plant: Also known as mother-in-law's tongue, snake plant contains saponins, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested in large quantities.

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that are commonly used in aromatherapy and other alternative health practices. While they are generally considered safe for humans when used properly, many essential oils can be toxic to dogs and other pets.

Some essential oils contain compounds that can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other health problems in dogs. Others contain toxic chemicals that can cause organ damage or even death if ingested in large quantities. Here are some examples of essential oils that are toxic to dogs:

• Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil is commonly used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, but it can be toxic to dogs if ingested or applied topically. Symptoms of tea tree oil toxicity can include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and difficulty walking.

• Peppermint Oil: While peppermint oil is often used to relieve nausea and other digestive issues in humans, it can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.

• Citrus Oils: Essential oils derived from citrus fruits such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit can cause skin irritation and digestive upset in dogs.

• Clove Oil: This essential oil is commonly used as a natural pain reliever, but it can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage.

• Eucalyptus Oil: While eucalyptus oil is often used for its respiratory benefits in humans, it can be toxic to dogs if ingested or inhaled. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.

If you use essential oils in your home, it is important to keep them out of reach of pets. Avoid using diffusers or other methods of dispersing essential oils in areas where your dog spends time, and be careful not to apply them topically to your dog's skin.