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Common Household Poisons for Dogs

Dogs are naturally curious and will try new things…shampoo, household cleaners and just about anything else. Although I am not a vet I feel strongly about dogs and dog safety. I have listed some common dangers to dogs. This is by no means an exhaustive list but some of the more common and dangerous items.
 
  • Raisins/Grapes (appears to affect some dogs but not all)
  • Avocados
  • Yeast dough –cooked bread is alright in small amounts
  • Alcohol (all types)
  • Chocolate but not carob
  • Macadamia nuts but peanut butter is fine
  • Onions/Garlic/Chives (and yes, years ago we gave dogs garlic to prevent fleas)
  • Sugar free gum /candy with Xylitol –this is a new danger because xylitol is fairly new
  • Anti freeze attracts dogs and it takes less than a tablespoon to kill a 65 lb dog-this why you train your dog to a leave it command. I see spots of antifreeze on streets and driveways while walking quite often.
  • Household cleaners/shampoos/Chemicals (i.e. garden sprays or motor oils)
  • Human and vet medications
  • Rat /mouse poisons-(I never use the baits because the rat goes looking for water and the dog will catch it and eat it which then poisons the dog).
  • Indoor and garden plants- Sago Palms, are one common example in the Austin and Central Texas area
 
Some of the above take very little to kill your dog and some will make them ill only when the dog ingests a large enough amount. It is best to prevent poisonings by supervising your dog and “dog proofing” the areas where you dog spends time. If you suspect poisoning call your vet immediately with what the poison is and the amount ingested.
 
Here are some Austin area Emergency Vet links and phone numbers.