Foods that are perfectly suitable for human consumption may be toxic and even poisonous to your dog, posing a serious threat to its health and well-being. So whether you’re tempted to feed your dog the occasional table scrap or simply looking to supplement their diet, here is a list of human foods not to feed your furry friend.

1. Raw fish

A good dog diet should not include raw fish because it can contain parasites, such as Salmonella, leading to diarrhoea, vomiting and even death. Raw fish also contains an enzyme that breaks down Vitamin B2, so feeding raw fish to your dog, can result in a vitamin deficiency. Also, be aware of fish bones, they can be an obstruction risk to your dog.

2. Prawns and shellfish with shells

Dogs should stay away from shellfish that still have their shells, since eating the shell can scrape up the stomach. Plus, shellfish allergies are fairly common in dogs.

3. Raw meat

In general, like raw fish, raw meat for dogs (including raw chicken) is not recommended because it could contain bacteria. However, fresh human grade meat will be OK to include in their diet.

4. Cooked bones

Never feed cooked bones for your furry friend as they can easily splinter and cause internal damage or become an intestinal obstruction.

5. Bacon

Bacon should also be left off the “good list.” Bacon is rich in fat, which can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Pork is not recommended by Vets.

6. Sausages

Sausages and cooked manufactured meats should be avoided as they can contain sulphite preservatives – these can cause thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, which can be fatal. Sausages are also often too fatty and salty.

7. Raw eggs

Raw egg white contains the Avidin protein, which inhibits the absorption of vitamin B (Biotin), but the yolk contains more than enough Biotin to even out the enzyme. So the most obvious problem with raw eggs is salmonella that could affect your dog when eggs are not processed properly.

8. Avocado

The persin in avocado can lead to a stomach ache and even trouble in breathing.

9. Grapes

Grapes can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, lethargy or kidney failure.

10. Onions and onion powder

The thiosulphate in onions can damage your dog’s red blood cells, making him or her feel weak and your dog might even need a blood transfusion.

11. Garlic

Like onions, garlic can negatively affect your dog’s red blood cells.

12. Chocolate

Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, dehydration, seizures or death.

13. Raisins, sultanas and currants

Since these foods are related to grapes, they carry the same risk of kidney damage.

14. Mushrooms

Certain mushrooms can be poisonous for your dog, so it’s best to leave these fungi out of the dog diet altogether.

15. Liver

Liver has a lot of vitamin A, and too much of this vitamin can negatively affect your dog’s bones and muscles.
We have combined 100 human foods into a downloadable (and free) poster – including what foods your doggie can eat, what can be eaten in moderation and what food should be avoided altogether. Simply click on the button below, print the A4 poster and keep it on your fridge or close to wherever you feed your furry friend.