While be a loving dog owner is important, you also need to be a knowledgeable dog owner as well. By not knowing how to properly feed your dog, you could be risking not only his health, but even his life. In this article, you will find out more information about some of the foods that you definitely should NOT feed your dog, so that you can be better informed on how to care for your precious pet.

All of us at one time or another have been guilty of feeding our dogs “people” food, and have most likely done so without harming our pet, that we know of. If you feel that you should feed your dog “people” food, then you should talk with your veterinarian to see what foods are okay for your particular type of dog. The foods listed in this article are typically bad for almost all dogs, so it is a good idea to ban them completely from your dog’s diet.

Even though you may enjoy the occasional beer, you should never allow your dog to have alcohol. Some people think it is funny to watch their dog stagger around inebriated, but little do they know, that the alcohol that is creating this funny show could actually cause their beloved dog to go into a coma, or even die! So, number one on your list of foods to never give your dog: alcohol.

While your dog may love to chew on the leftover bones of your Thanksgiving turkey, it really isn’t a good idea to allow him to do so, or any kind of leftover bones for that matter. These bones could cause severe damage to the dog’s mouth, the lining of his throat, esophagus, and digestive system, or could even become lodged inside the dog, which could result in surgery, or even death. If you want your canine friend to have bones to chew, then you should purchase safe rawhide bones from your local pet supply store.

Caffeine is bad for us humans, but is doubly bad for dogs. The effects, due to their smaller size, and much greater in dogs than in humans, so if drinking a cup of soda makes you hyper, just think of what it will do to your dog! If you allow your dog to have caffeine, you should know that you could be unknowingly causing irrevocable damage to his heart and nervous system, which could not only cause his health to deteriorate, but could even kill him!

Chocolate has much the same dangers as caffeine, affecting the heart and nervous system as well. Dark chocolate is the most likely to cause fatal symptoms, but is a good idea to make it a general rule to never allow your dog to eat any kind of chocolate, at all! Think twice before you allow your dog’s begging for that brownie to get to you, remember, you are the one responsible for his care!

Also, on the restricted list, onions and garlic, in any form, including powders that may be used as seasoning in foods. You have to learn to read labels carefully, on any food product that you give your dog, as these two foods could be very hazardous to your dog, and has even caused many dogs to die. This is more common in feline pets than in dogs, but it is still something that you should be aware of, especially if you intend to feed your dog table-food.

Many diet foods meant for human consumption contain an ingredient known as Xylitol, as a sugar substitute. In dogs, this ingredient can cause a rapid drop in glucose levels, which could lead to seizures and even death if not treated in time.

These are only a few of the dangerous foods that we eat everyday, that are not safe for our dogs to eat. To be certain you aren’t feeding your dog something that could compromise his health, or put his life at risk, seek and follow your veterinarian’s advice, and make sure that others who come into contact with the dog do the same. You should remember that while you may know what foods are safe for your dog, others who are around him may not, so it is your job to educate them, to make certain your dog stays healthy and safe.

by Cristy & David Giacomini - Holistic Dog (www.holisticdog.com)
For your dog’s mind, body & soul.

This article may be reprinted as long as it’s reprinted in its entirety including the signature line.