12 Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat

1. ALCOHOL

Some irresponsible dog owners think it’s funny to see their pup get googly eyed after a few sips of beer. But alcohol even in small amounts, whether in liquid or food form, can cause serious damage and even death. Avoid at all costs!

2. CAFFEINE

Keep a sharp eye out for consumables that include coffee, tea, chocolate, or any other items that include caffeine. Caffeine can actually be fatal to canines!

3. CANDY

We all know sugar isn’t the healthiest ingredient. But did you know that xylitol, a sweetener commonly used in candy, can lead to liver failure in dogs? To stay safe, keep all sweets well away from your pup!

4. CHOCOLATE

In addition to caffeine, chocolate contains theobromine, which can be extremely poisonous when ingested by dogs and may even result in seizures and death, so be sure not leave any chocolates within Fido’s reach.

5. DAIRY

Dairy products like milk, cream, cheese, and butter can cause diarrhea and other digestive disturbances in dogs. They also commonly cause allergic reactions in dogs, so it's best for your dog to avoid dairy even in small amounts. And yes this includes eggnog!

6. GARLIC & ONIONS

Garlic, onions and chives can be found in virtually everything on your holiday dinner table! But be careful - these ingredients are yet another reason to avoid giving your dog table scraps. Regardless of whether they are fresh, cooked or powdered, garlic and onions can cause anemia and damage to blood cells in dogs.

7. PORK PRODUCTS (Yes, ham & bacon!)

We know it's tempting - bacon is so delicious! But it's best to completely avoid feeding your dog ham, bacon or any other pork products. Pork is rich with a type of fat that is difficult for them to digest and can cause indigestion and pancreatitis.

8. NUTMEG

Nutmeg can be toxic in quantities, causing hallucinations, stomach pain and even seizures. Other spices can be dangerous to your dog, too. Avoid leaving your spice containers out where Fido can steal and chew!

9. NUTS

Nuts can contain toxins that can lead to serious health complications, and are high in fats that can upset digestion. Even in small amounts, macadamia nuts can be especially toxic to dogs. Symptoms can include tremors, irregular heartbeat, vomiting, and paralysis.

10. RAISINS AND GRAPES

Such an innocent food, with terrible health consequences for dogs! Raising and grapes can be disastrous to your pup's health. Even small quantities can cause kidney failure in some dogs. So be careful with that fruitcake!

11. AVOCADO

Though healthy for people, avocados contain a toxin called persin that can be toxic to dogs and lethal to horses. Persin is present in all parts of the plant, including the skin, meat, pit, and even the bark of the tree!

12. TURKEY & CHICKEN BONES

Many have heard of the fact that turkey and chicken bones are not good for dogs to ingest, but it's worth repeating! Cooked bones can damage the intestines to the point that they require surgery.

So what goodies CAN I feed my dog?

There are a few foods that are not only fine, they are nutritious and great to feed your dog in small quantities (if their diet allows!)

- CANNED & FRESH PUMPKIN

Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs! It aids digestion and can ease diarrhea. Just make sure any pumpkin you feed your dogs is plain, with no added spices, sugar or artificial sweeteners,.

- BITS OF BANANA

- APPLE SLICES

- STEAMED GREEN BEANS & GREENS

- COOKED SWEET POTATOES

Enjoy the holiday season, stay safe and cozy, and remember - your Coat Defense powder is a quick and easy way to make your dog clean, sweet-smelling and party ready in minutes!