Dangerous Toxic Food - Toxic Plants: Puppies and 'GREAT food for Puppies':
Introduction: As pet owners, our 'Best Mates' hold a special place in our hearts, and their well-being is of utmost importance. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential dangers that can lurk in your surroundings, your home environment specifically when it comes to the foods and plants we expose our puppies and dogs to. In this blog post, Peter Bonney, a renowned master puppy trainer, will guide you through a comprehensive understanding of the foods and plants that pose a risk to our beloved pets. The information in this "Dog Blog" aims to equip you with the knowledge necessary to provide a safe environment and ensure the health and happiness of your precious 'Best Mate'.
Dangerous and Toxic Foods for your puppy or dog:
A. Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that dogs cannot metabolize properly. Ingesting chocolate can lead to various symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and even seizures. Dogs are unable to metabolise the stimulants caffeine and theobromine, which are found in chocolate. cannot metabolize properly. Ingesting chocolate can lead to various symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and even seizures. Dogs are unable to metabolise the stimulants caffeine and theobromine, which are found in chocolate.
· Grapes and raisins: These seemingly harmless fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even a small amount can be toxic and may result in symptoms like vomiting, increased thirst, and decreased appetite. It is not known why many dogs can ingest grapes or raisins with impunity whereas others develop renal failure after ingestion. The condition has not been reproduced experimentally, although raisin extracts have been shown to cause damage to canine kidney cells in vitro. Choose caution in this matter.
· Lemons and Limes: Don’t let your dog get hold of a lemon or lime peel, as they contain a substance called psoralen, which can lead to upset stomachs and nasty messes. Lemons and limes, like other citrus fruits, contain the essential oils limonene and linalool, as well as a phototoxic compound known as psoralens. Although a small amount is unlikely to pose a serious threat, it can cause gastrointestinal upset. Ingestion of larger quantities of these fruits, or the trees that they grow on, may cause more serious distress, though this is uncommon as dogs do not find these fruits palatable.
· Onions, chives, leeks and garlic: These foods contain compounds that can damage a dog's red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Symptoms may include weakness, vomiting, and pale gums. Besides making your dinner taste great, onions, garlic, leeks and chives can cause serious medical problems for your dog. Although clinical signs of illness, such as vomiting, can occur soon after your dog eats any of these, the full onset of signs may take several days to appear. In most cases, consumption causes gastroenteritis or inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Irritation of the mouth, drooling, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea may occur.
· Flour, Yeast dough or Home Made Playdough - Play-Doe ®: Raw bread dough, including homemade playdough: Raw bread dough can be dangerous for puppies due to the fermentation process that occurs in their stomach. The yeast and sugar in the dough ferment, producing alcohol that can be absorbed into the dog's bloodstream, leading to toxicity. This can result in low blood sugar, low body temperature, seizures, breathing difficulties, and even death if not promptly treated. Raw pizza dough can cause similar symptoms and should also be treated as an emergency. On the other hand, cookie dough, which lacks yeast, may cause an upset tummy if consumed but is not associated with the same fermentation issue. If your puppy eats a piece of bread, there is generally no need to panic, but it's always best to consult with your vet to be safe. When working with yeast or dough in cooking, avoid leaving it unattended on the counter where a curious puppy or dog may jump up to eat it unnoticed. Dispose of any leftover dough by putting it in a bag and securely placing it in a large bin, as puppies can be nosy and may be tempted to investigate. It is important to teach children that when playing with Play-Doh, the puppy should be in a different room, as Play-Doh is toxic and should be stored safely away from their reach.
· Coffee and Tea: Caffeine is most commonly found in coffee, coffee grounds, tea, used tea bags, soda, energy drinks and diet pills. Theobromine, a cousin chemical to caffeine is also found chocolate (see chocolate) - In 1-2 hours of exposure: mild to severe hyperactivity, restlessness, vomiting, tachycardia (elevated heart rate), hypertension (elevated blood pressure), abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature) seizures, and collapse.
· Nutmeg: Nutmeg is toxic for dogs, and dogs should never eat it. Nutmeg poisoning can cause disorientation, high heart rate, seizures, and hallucinations in dogs. The amount of nutmeg in a baked treat is not likely to be toxic for a dog but should still be kept out of reach at home or in your workplace.
· Avocado: Avocado contains a toxin called Persin, which can cause digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. It is considered as reasonably low risk to dogs and cats however the pit and skin can also pose a choking hazard or foreign body obstruction in the oesophagus, stomach, or intestinal tract if part or all of a large avocado seed is swallowed. Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) is also possible due to the high fat content in avocados.
· Macadamia Nuts: These nuts contain a toxin that leads to tremors, muscle weakness, vomiting, and hyperthermia. Initial clinical signs of vomiting, fever, and lethargy occur within 3 – 6 hours following ingestion of a toxic dose of macadamia nuts. Pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas (a digestive gland located near the small intestine) may be triggered by consumption by high fat diets; macadamia nuts are high in fat.
· Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is commonly found in sugar-free gum, candies, and baked goods. Ingesting xylitol can lead to a rapid release of insulin, causing a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels and potentially liver failure.
· Alcohol: I am sure this is self-evident. We have however seen people giving their dogs alcohol and other drugs so they can laugh at them. We can’t help those people but when your dog knocks over a bottle of alcohol then poisoning occurs when a dog ingests it; substances containing ethanol (like alcoholic drinks and liquid medications), isopropanol (such as flea sprays that are alcohol based), and methanol (as in windshield washer antifreeze). Toxicity occurs rapidly as the alcohol is quickly absorbed into the dog's system.
· Corn on the Cob. Corn on the cob could potentially be fatal if eaten by your dog. Although the corn is digested by dogs, the cob can cause a blockage in your dog’s intestine.
· Cooked Bones. Giving your dog a raw uncooked bone to chew on is great, but avoid cooked bones at all cost. (No COOKED CHICKEN BONES EVER) These cooked bones can easily splinter and in large quantities cause constipation or at worst, a perforation of the gut which can be fatal. We always recommend that you should choose which bones to give your puppy. Bones like Chicken Necks - from time to time is ok. Brisket bones can be OK for most dogs too. We don't use bones animals have been walking on - beef etc as they are extremely hard and can break the dogs teeth.
B. Great Puppy foods: High-quality puppy food:
· Choose a reputable brand of puppy food that is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies. Look for products that are labeled as "complete and balanced" and tailored for their life stage. You may pay more for great PUPPY food but it can be worth it. Val Bonney has used 'Royal Canin', or 'Hills Science Diet' or 'Black Hawk' etc with all of your puppies. It is considered as very important that your puppy grows at the right speed - do NOT over feed. Always double check with your vet. Some dogs have food issues with what they can and can't eat.
· Lean protein sources: Incorporate lean protein sources into your puppy's diet, such as chicken, turkey, lean cuts of beef, fish, and eggs. Protein is essential for muscle development and overall growth. We use high value foods as treats too so our dog/puppy can focus on us as and when they are given a reward for great work.
· Whole grains: Whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa can provide healthy carbohydrates and fibre for sustained energy and digestion.
· Fruits and vegetables: Introduce a variety of fruits and vegetables to your puppy's diet, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. We use these in our Treat bag. Puppies love them.
· Healthy fats: Include sources of healthy fats like salmon oil, flaxseed oil, or coconut oil in moderation. These fats support brain development, a healthy coat, and overall well-being. Always in a very balanced way.
· Discuss with your vet before adding anything to your dogs food bowl.
· Probiotics: Consider adding a probiotic supplement or including probiotic-rich foods like plain yogurt to promote a healthy gut and aid digestion. In moderation – adding anything should be a planned addition, not a ‘spirit of the moment’ addition. Always double check with your vet.
· Water: Ensure access to fresh, clean water at all times to keep your puppy hydrated. No we don't give our dogs milk.
· Treats: Choose puppy-specific treats made with quality ingredients. Use treats as rewards during training but do so in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
· Portion control: Follow feeding guidelines provided by your veterinarian or the puppy food manufacturer. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and associated health issues.
· Regular meals: Establish a regular feeding schedule to maintain consistency and help with potty training.
A general list: Apples, Green Peas, Carrots, Green Beans, Watermelon, Cooked sweet potato, Banana's, Broccoli, cooked squash, Strawberries, Blueberries just to name a few.
2. Hazardous Plants: I have a fairly comprehensive list however you should always double check the plants you have too. It is NOT a complete list.
· Lily: Certain species of lilies, such as Lily of the Valley, Easter lilies and Tiger lilies, are highly toxic to dogs. Ingesting any part of these plants can cause severe kidney damage.
· Sago palm: With its stiff fronds, the sago palm looks like a tiny palm tree and can live indoor or outdoor. All parts of the sago palm, including the seeds and leaves, contain toxins that can lead to liver failure in dogs. Even a small amount can be life-threatening.
· Azalea and rhododendron: These popular garden plants contain substances that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart abnormalities in dogs.
· Oleander: The oleander plant, with its vibrant flowers, is highly toxic to dogs. Ingestion can lead to serious cardiac issues, including an irregular heartbeat.
· Autumn crocus: Ingesting any part of the autumn crocus plant can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, organ damage, and even bone marrow suppression in dogs.
· Tulips: If your dog chews on the lance-shaped leaves, he could get an upset stomach. However, the real danger lies when your dog digs up and eats the newly-planted bulbs, which have the most toxins.
· Oleander: Every inch of this plant is poisonous to dogs—from the flower petals to the pointy, long leaves. “Like lily of the valley, oleander also contains cardiac glycosides,
The following is a comprehensive list of ‘toxic puppy plants’ but it is NOT a complete list: Each Country have their own species of plants. Check with your local VET.
· Adam-and-Eve (also known as Arum, Lord-and-Ladies, Wake Robin, Starch Root, Bobbins, Cuckoo Plant)
· African Wonder Tree
· Aloe
· Amaryllis (also known as Belladonna lily, Saint Joseph lily, Cape Belladonna, Naked Lady, Barbados lily)
· American Mistletoe
· Ambrosia Mexicana (also known as Jerusalem Oak, Feather Geranium)
· American Mandrake (also known as Mayapple, Indian Apple Root, Umbrella Leaf, Wild Lemon, Hog Apple, Duck's Foot, and Raccoonberry)
· American Yew (also known as Canada Yew, Canadian Yew)
· Apple (including crabapples; stem, leaves and seeds contain cyanide, but the fruit is okay for dogs)
· Apricot (stems, leaves, and pit contain cyanide)
· Arrow-Head Vine (also known as Nephthytis, Green Gold Naphthysis, African Evergreen, Trileaf Wonder)
· Australian Ivy Palm (also known as Schefflera, Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree, Starleaf)
· Autumn Crocus (also known as Naked Ladies)
· Azalea
· Baby Doll Ti Plant (also known as Ti-Plant, Good-Luck Plant, Hawaiian TI Plant)
· Barbados Pride (also known as Peacock Flower, Dwarf Poinciana)
· Barbados Pride 2 (also known as Bird of Paradise, Poinciana, Brazilwood)
· Begonia
· Bergamot Orange
· Bird of Paradise Flower (also known as Crane Flower, Bird's Tongue Flower)
· Bishop’s Weed (also known as False Queen Anne’s Lace, Greater Ammi)
· Bitter Root (also known as Dogbane Hemp, Indian Hemp)
· Bittersweet (also known as American Bittersweet, Waxwork, Shrubby Bittersweet, False Bittersweet, Climbing Bittersweet)
· Black Calla (also known as Solomon’s Lily, Wild Calla, Wild Arum)
· Black Laurel (also known as Dog Hobble, Dog Laurel, Fetter Bush, Sierra Laurel)
· Black Walnut
· Bog Laurel (also known as Pale Laurel)
· Borage (also known as Starflower)
· Boxwood
· Branching Ivy (also known as English Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, California Ivy)
· Brunfelsia (also known as Lady-of-the-Night, Kiss-Me-Quick, Franciscan Rain Tree)
· Buckwheat
· Burning Bush (also known as Spindle Tree)
· Buttercup (also known as Figwort)
· Butterfly Iris
· Calamondin Orange
· Calla Lily (also known as Trumpet Lily, Arum Lily, Pig Lily, White Arum, Florist's Calla, Garden Calla)
· Caraway
· Cardboard Palm (also known as Cardboard Cycad)
· Castor Bean Plant
· Carnation
· Chamomile
· Chandelier Plant (also known as Devils Backbone)
· Cherry (stem, leaves, and pit)
· Chinaberry Tree (also known as Bead tree, China Ball Tree, Paradise Tree, Persian Lilac, White Cedar, Japanese Bead Tree, Texas Umbrella Tree, Pride-of-India)
· Chinese Evergreen
· Chinese Jade (also known as Silver Jade Plant, Silver Dollar)
· Chives
· Chrysanthemum (also known as Mums)
· Clematis (also known as Virgin’s Bower)
· Clivia Lily
· Coffee Tree
· Coleus (also known as Bread-and-Butter Plant, Spanish Thyme, East Indian Thyme)
· Corn Plant (also known as Dragon Tree)
· Cow Parsnip (also known as Giant Hogweed)
· Cowbane
· Cyclamen
· Daffodil (especially the bulbs)
· Dahlia
· Daisy
· Desert Rose (also known as Desert Azalea, Mock Azalea)
· Deadly Nightshade (also known as Climbing Nightshade, Poisonous Nightshade, Woody Nightshade, and Blue Nightshade)
· Dieffenbachia (also known as Dumb Cane)
· Dog Daisy
· Eastern Star
· Elephant Ears (also known as Taro, Malanga, and Caladium)
· Elephant-Ear Begonia
· Emerald Fern (also known as Emerald Feather, Asparagus Fern)
· Epazote (also known as Mexican Tea)
· Eucalyptus
· Fetterbush (also known as Maleberry, Staggerberry)
· Fleabane (also known as Horseweed, Showy Daisy)
· Florida Beauty (also known as Gold Dust Dracaena, Spotted Dracaena)
· Foxglove
· Garlic
· Gardenia (also known as Cape Jasmine)
· Geranium
· Giant Dracaena (also known as Palm Lily, Grass Palm)
· Gladiola
· Glory lily (also known as Gloriosa Lily, Climbing Lily, Superb Lily)
· Good Luck Plant (also known as Golden Birds Nest, Snake Plant)
· Grapefruit (skin and plant parts; fruit isn’t toxic)
· Heavenly Bamboo (also known as Sacred Bamboo)
· Hellebore (also known as Christmas Rose, Easter Rose)
· Holly (also known as American Holly, English Holly, European Holly, Oregon Holly, Inkberry, Winterberry)
· Hops
· Horse Chestnut (also known as Buckeye)
· Hosta
· Hyacinth
· Hydrangea
· Indian Rubber Plant (also known as Fig, Weeping Fig)
· Iris (also known as Flag, Snake Lily, Water Flag)
· Iron Cross Begonia
· Jack-in-the-Pulpit
· Jade Plant (also known as Baby Jade, Dwarf Rubber Plant, Chinese Rubber Plant, Japanese Rubber Plant)
· Japanese Yew (also known as Buddhist pine or Southern yew)
· Jerusalem Cherry (also known as Winter Cherry)
· Jonquil
· Lambkill (also known as Sheep Laurel)
· Larkspur
· Laurel (also known as Mountain Laurel, Bay Laurel)
· Lavender
· Leek
· Lemon (skin and plant parts; fruit is non-toxic)
· Lemon Grass
· Lemon Verbena
· Lily of the Valley
· Lily-of-the-Valley Bush (also known as Andromeda Japonica)
· Lime (skin and plant parts; fruit is edible)
· Lobelia (also known as Cardinal Flower, Indian Pink)
· Locust
· Lovage
· Macademia Nut
· Madagascar Dragon Tree
· Mapleleaf Begonia
· Marijuana (also known as Indian Hemp, Hashish)
· Marjoram
· Mayweed
· Metallic Leaf Begonia
· Milkweed
· Mint
· Mole Bean Plant
· Morning Glory
· Narcissus (also known as Paper White)
· Nightshade (also known as Black Nightshade)
· Oleander
· Onions
· Orange (skin and plant parts; fruit isn’t toxic)
· Oregano
· Painter’s Pallet (also known as Flamingo Lily, Flamingo Flower, Pigtail Plant, and Oilcloth Flower)
· Parsley
· Peace Begonia
· Peach (stem, leaves and pit)
· Peace Lily
· Pencil Cactus (also known as Sticks of Fire)
· Peony
· Periwinkle (also known as Running Myrtle)
· Philodendron
· Plum (stem, leaves and pit)
· Poinsettia
· Poison Hemlock (also known as Deadly Hemlock, Winter Fern, California Fern, Nebraska Fern)
· Pothos (also known as Golden Pothos, Taro Vine, Devil’s ivy)
· Prayer Bean (also known as Rosary Bean, Buddhist Rosary Bean, Indian Bean, Indian Licorice)
· Prickly Ash (also known as Angelica Tree, Prickly Elder, Hercules’ Club, Devil’s Walking Stick)
· Primrose
· Privet (also known as Wax-Leaf)
· Purslane (also known as Moss Rose, Rock Moss)
· Ragwort (also known as Golden Ragwort)
· Ranger’s Button (also known as Swamp White Heads)
· Red-Marginated Dracaena
· Red Sage (also known as Shrub Verbena, Lantana, Yellow Sage)
· Rex Begonia
· Rhubarb
· Sago palm
· Shamrock Plant
· Skunk Weed (also known as Skunk Cabbage, Swamp Cabbage, Polecat Weed)
· Sorrel
· Spring Parsley
· John’s Wort (also known as Klamath Weed)
· Striped Dracaena
· Sweet Pea (also known as Everlasting Pea)
· Sweet William (also known as Pinks)
· Tahitian Bridal Veil
· Tarragon
· Tobacco (also known as Tree Tobacco, Mustard Tree, Nicotiania)
· Tomato Plant
· Tulips
· Wandering Jew
· Watercress
· Wisteria
· Yarrow (also known as Milfoil)
· Yucca
Conclusion: As pet owners, it is crucial to prioritise the health and safety of our dogs. Understanding the potential risks associated with certain foods and plants is a vital step towards providing a secure environment for our furry companions. Avoid feeding your dog any foods that are known to be harmful and be vigilant about keeping them away from hazardous plants. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic or if they exhibit any unusual symptoms, it is essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. By being proactive and informed, we can protect our beloved puppies and dogs from unnecessary dangers and ensure their well-being for years to come.
Written by Head Trainer and Master Puppy Trainer Peter Bonney. Discover the Secrets to Successful Dog Training Today! Share this valuable information with your fellow dog and puppy owners, because knowledge is power. Don't waste time searching for generic terms like 'dog training Brisbane' or 'dog training near me'. Instead, visit bonnies.com.au for expert insights and solutions tailored to your needs. Explore our other informative articles to expand your understanding even further. We value your input, so please leave a comment if you have any training suggestions or topics you'd like more information on. For a wealth of knowledge, check out Val's Books, available through this link: https://www.bonnies.com.au/shop-1. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your dog training journey. Take action now and unleash the full potential of your four-legged companion! Cheers, Peter.