Our homes are filled with everyday items that we don't think twice about using. However, many of these common household items can pose serious risks to our dogs. Dogs are naturally curious and may eat things they shouldn't, so it's up to us to ensure their environment is safe.
Dog Poison
Dogs process substances differently from humans, making certain items that are safe for us highly toxic to them. It's essential to understand that dogs are prone to exploring their surroundings with their mouths, which often causes them to ingest harmful substances. Being knowledgeable about what is toxic to dogs can help prevent accidental poisoning. Always keep hazardous items out of reach and be vigilant about what your dog might get into.
Dog Poison Symptoms
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially after your dog has been exposed to a potential toxin, contact your vet immediately.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Drooling
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Tremors
- Pale gums
- Increased heart rate
What Does Dog Poison Look Like?
Toxins that can harm dogs often come in unsuspecting forms. Items we use daily or keep in our homes without a second thought can be dangerous. From food items to household products, these can all pose significant health risks to your dog.
In the Pantry…
Many foods that are safe for humans to consume can be deadly to dogs. Items like chocolate, grapes, and even certain nuts should be kept out of your pet's reach. Always be cautious about what your dog has access to in the kitchen.
1. Chocolate
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?
No, dogs cannot eat chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to dogs. Theobromine affects the heart, central nervous system, and kidneys, leading to serious health issues or even death without medical intervention if ingested in concentrated quantities.
Dog Ate Chocolate
If your dog eats chocolate, it’s essential to act quickly. The type and amount of chocolate, as well as your dog’s size, determine the severity of the situation. White chocolate isn’t a concern, while cases of dark chocolate and cocoa powder ingestion should be treated incredibly seriously. Contact your vet immediately if your dog consumes any chocolate, especially dark chocolate or cocoa.
How Much Chocolate Kills a Dog?
The amount of chocolate that can be lethal varies depending on the type of chocolate and the size of the dog. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. It’s best to prevent any chocolate consumption and consult your vet if any is ingested.
2. Grapes
Can Dogs Eat Grapes?
No, dogs cannot eat grapes. Grapes and their dried forms, such as sultanas and raisins, can cause severe kidney damage in dogs. The exact substance causing the toxicity is unknown, but even small amounts can be dangerous.
My Dog Ate a Grape
If your dog eats a grape, contact your vet immediately. Grapes can cause kidney failure, which is a medical emergency.
My Dog Ate a Sultana
Sultanas, raisins, and other grape products are equally toxic. Be cautious with baked goods such as raisin bread, hot cross buns or muffins containing these items and keep them away from your dog.
3. Alcohol
What Happens if a Dog Drinks Alcohol?
Alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts can cause ethanol poisoning, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea, coordination problems, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing, and even death. Never give your dog any alcoholic beverages and keep them away from alcohol-containing products.
My Dog Licked Alcohol
If your dog licks alcohol, observe their behaviour closely. A small lick may not cause significant harm, but larger quantities can be fatal. Contact your vet for advice, especially if your dog shows any signs of distress.
4. Avocado
Can Dogs Eat Avocado?
No, dogs should not eat avocado. Avocado contains persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. While small amounts may not be lethal, it’s best to avoid giving your dog any avocado.
How Much Avocado Will Kill a Dog?
The amount of avocado that could be lethal varies. It’s safest to prevent your dog from eating any avocado to avoid potential health issues.
5. Onion
Can Dogs Eat Onion?
No, onions are toxic to dogs. They contain compounds that can cause haemolytic anaemia, leading to damage to red blood cells, and can be fatal if consumed in large quantities.
Will a Small Amount of Onion Hurt My Dog?
Even small amounts of onion can be harmful over time as it will build up in your dog’s system. It’s best to avoid giving your dog any onion or onion-containing products.
6. Xylitol
Xylitol and Dogs
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products such as gum, candy, and baked goods. It is often also found in peanut butters designed for human consumption. It can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, and even death. Always check labels and keep xylitol-containing products away from your dog.
In the Cupboard…
Items found in bathroom or kitchen cupboards can be dangerous to dogs. Be mindful of where you store medications, cleaning products, and other hazardous items to ensure your pet’s safety.
7. Ibuprofen and Anti-inflammatories
Ibuprofen and human anti-inflammatories contain substances that are not metabolised well by dogs. The main culprit is ibuprofen itself, which can cause irritation and ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, these medications can disrupt the normal blood flow to the kidneys, leading to acute kidney failure. The liver can also be affected, as it works to process the drug but struggles with the high toxicity level, leading to potential liver damage or failure. Unlike humans, dogs have a different metabolism and lack the enzymes needed to safely break down and excrete these drugs, making them highly toxic.
Can I Give My Dog Ibuprofen?
No, you should not give your dog ibuprofen or other human anti-inflammatories. Always consult your vet for appropriate pain relief for your dog.
8. Batteries
Batteries contain harmful chemicals that can cause chemical burns, heavy metal poisoning, and other serious health issues if ingested.
My Dog Chewed a Battery, Will he be Okay?
If your dog chews or swallows a battery, contact your vet immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial for your dog's safety.
9. Magnets.
Magnets can cause severe internal damage if ingested, especially if multiple magnets stick together inside the intestines and cause blockages.
Dog Ate Magnet
If your dog eats a magnet, seek vet attention right away.
10. Silica Gel Packets
Silica gel packets are small packets often found in product packaging that are filled with desiccant material used to absorb moisture and keep products dry. While they are not usually toxic, they can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested by dogs.
Dog Ate Silica Gel Packet
Don’t panic! These items are usually not toxic, though it’s best to consult your vet if your dog ingests one, as they can still cause blockages or other issues.
In the Shed Out the Back…
Items commonly stored in sheds, such as fertilisers, pesticides, and chemicals, can be extremely dangerous to pets. Always store these products securely and be cautious when using them around your dog.
11. Fertilizer
Fertiliser can be dangerous to dogs because it often contains harmful chemicals such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sometimes pesticides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and serious internal damage if ingested.
Dog Ate Fertilizer
Fertilisers often contain chemicals that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and other severe symptoms if ingested. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats fertiliser.
12. Metaldehyde
What is Metaldehyde?
Metaldehyde is a chemical used in slug and snail baits, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Metaldehyde Toxicity Dog
Metaldehyde can cause seizures, tremors, and death if ingested by dogs. It’s crucial to keep these products out of reach.
Metaldehyde Amount Lethal to Dog
Even small amounts of metaldehyde can be lethal. If your dog ingests any, contact your vet immediately.
13. Rat Poison
Dog Ate Rat Poison
Rat poison contains anticoagulants that can cause internal bleeding in dogs. If your dog eats rat poison, seek veterinary care immediately.
Dog Ate Rat Poison and Nothing Happened?
Even if your dog shows no immediate symptoms after ingesting rat poison, the effects can be delayed. It’s critical to get veterinary help as soon as possible.
14. Ant Powder
What Happens if a Dog Eats Ant Poison Powder?
Ant poison powder can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, and more severe symptoms depending on the chemicals used in the particular product.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Ant Poison?
Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats ant poison. Provide as much information as possible about the product ingested.
How to Detox a Dog from Poison
- Contact Your vet: Call your vet immediately.
- Identify the Poison: Try to determine what and how much your dog has ingested.
- Follow Professional Advice: Follow the instructions given by your vet or poison control.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless specifically advised by a professional, do not try to make your dog vomit. Depending on what the poison is, inducing vomiting can cause more harm so always wait for vet advice.
- Keep the Dog Calm: Minimise stress for your dog while seeking help.
FAQs for Common Household Items for Dog Toxicity
Symptoms of Dog Eating Battery?
Vomiting, drooling, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
Can a Dog Die from Eating Ant Poison?
Yes, depending on the type and amount of ant poison ingested. Always seek vet help if your dog ingests ant poison.
Can I Give My Dog Human Anti-inflammatories?
No, always consult your vet for appropriate medications.
Can I Give My Dog Nurofen?
No, Nurofen (ibuprofen) is toxic to dogs.
How Long Does It Take for a Battery to Kill a Dog?
While the answer would depend on the size of the dog and the battery, battery ingestion can cause severe damage quickly. Contact your vet immediately.
Can One Sultana Kill a Dog?
Yes, even one sultana can cause severe health issues in dogs. Always keep grapes and grape products away from your pets.
My Dog Ate One Grape, Should I Worry?
Yes, even one grape can be harmful to dogs. It’s better to be safe and consult your vet if your dog ingests a grape.