Tag: dog health

Can My Dog Eat That? Beverages!

Posted on October 5, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
An interior graphic with text that reads ‘The verdict: Can my dog eat beverages? No. Water is best’.

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Today we answer the question “Can dogs eat (or drink) beverages?” Read on!

Most dogs aren’t shy about trying out a new food, crunchy snack or drink. If the opportunity arises, like a full glass at perfect tongue height, they’re going to take advantage of it. So which beverages should you be concerned about if your dog does lap up a few mouthfuls? Or what about if they drink the whole cup?

The quick answer is that your dog really shouldn’t be drinking anything but water. It’s the healthiest drink for them, and it’s all they need to keep hydrated. But if they do get into one of your cups, there are some beverages that are more of a concern than others.

Can Dogs Drink Milk?

Maybe. Like all mammals, puppies start off life by drinking milk from their mom. During this time, they produce the enzyme lactase which helps to digest the lactose in milk. As the puppies get older and are weaned from their mother’s milk, they start to produce less lactase. Most adult dogs are lactose intolerant because they don’t produce much lactase anymore.

This means that your adult dog may not be able to digest cow’s milk properly and that can cause diarrhea and very stinky gas. You’ll soon know if your dog is lactose intolerant! A little bit of milk may be OK for some dogs, but make sure it’s plain milk. Watch out for potentially toxic additives, like chocolate or nutmeg, and some milk substitutes, like macadamia nut milk.

Can Dogs Drink Sports Drinks?

Water is better. If you’re going on a long hike on a hot day, you might take a sports drink with you to help replace some of the electrolytes you lose through sweating. While this could be a good option for you, it’s best to stick with a flask of clean, fresh water for your dog to stay hydrated. Sports drinks often contain sugar and sodium which can be unhealthy for your dog, especially when all they really need is water. It’s probably OK if your dog does drink some of the sports drink, but don’t make it a regular thing for them.

Can Dogs Drink Soda?

No. If a few drops of soda bubbles out of your can onto the floor and your dog laps it up, that’s probably OK. But you should not purposefully give your dog soda or let them lick up a whole soda-can spill because it can contain ingredients that are dangerous for dogs. Xylitol is commonly used in diet soda as an artificial sweetener — but it’s toxic for dogs. Regular sodas contain a bunch of sugar which, although not toxic, is not healthy for dogs to consume in large amounts. And any cola-based sodas are definitely out as they contain caffeine, which is also toxic to dogs (more on that in the coffee section).

Can Dogs Drink Coffee?

Nope. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an espresso drinker, love a good pumpkin-spice latte or  are obsessed with caramel frappé, you should not share your coffee with your dog. Dogs are more sensitive to caffeine than people and can suffer from caffeine poisoning, causing agitation, vomiting, panting, elevated blood pressure, tremors and worse. Depending on the size of your dog and how much caffeine they ingested, it can be fatal.

If your dog drank some of your coffee (or cola), contact your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (1-855-764-7661) immediately for advice. Make sure you keep the coffee pot out of reach of your dog and dispose of coffee grounds in a place that your dog can’t get to.

Can Dogs Drink Beer?

Beer, whiskey, wine: if it’s got alcohol in it, the answer is a hard no. Dogs can become intoxicated and experience ethanol poisoning, which causes symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, difficulty breathing and seizures. Like most toxins, the severity of ethanol poisoning depends on how much ethanol was consumed (drink volume and alcohol percentage) and the size of your dog. Call your veterinarian or one of the animal poison centers listed above if your dog does drink an alcoholic beverage. And if you really want to share a brew with your canine buddy, try a specially made dog beer instead.

The bottom line is: water is the best drink for your dog. Try to keep that curious tongue out of your beverages. Plus, who wants dog slobber in their drink!

An interior graphic with text that reads ‘The verdict: Can my dog eat beverages? No. Water is best’.

RELATED POST: Can My Dog Eat That? Cinnamon

What Happens at Your Dog’s Annual Checkup?

Posted on February 16, 2023 - 11:01 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Your veterinarian has probably recommended that your dog visit the clinic at least once a year for a checkup. But if your dog appears healthy, should you still go? And what exactly is your veterinarian looking for during the exam? Here’s what to expect at your dog’s checkup.

A Healthy Dog Still Needs an Annual Checkup

If your dog doesn’t feel good, they will often try to hide their sickness or pain from you — a behavior their ancestors likely used so they wouldn’t appear weak to predators. By visiting the veterinary clinic for an annual checkup, your veterinarian can look for any health issues your dog may have that aren’t obvious to you. It also establishes a baseline for future visits and allows you and your veterinarian to keep track of your dog’s health status over time.

Most dogs that are healthy probably only need to have a checkup once a year. But your dog may need more frequent checkups, depending on their age (e.g., puppies and senior dogs), health status (e.g., dogs with a chronic disease) and breed (e.g., some breeds are more prone to certain diseases). Your veterinarian will recommend how often to bring your dog to the clinic.

During the visit, your veterinarian will ask questions to learn more about your dog’s history, perform a physical examination and possibly perform routine laboratory or screening tests. This information can help your veterinarian determine if your dog has a disease in an early stage that isn’t showing obvious symptoms yet (e.g., diabetes, chronic kidney disease) or if they have an infectious disease (e.g., Lyme disease, heartworm disease, or canine parvovirus).

Tell Me About Your Dog

To help your veterinarian get a complete picture of your dog’s health, they will ask you some questions about your dog’s behavior, bathroom habits, nutrition, general health and exercise routines (among others). It may be useful to think about the answers to these questions ahead of time so you are ready to answer them at the clinic.

This is also a great time for you to ask any questions you have about your dog. Is there a behavior you would like to curb but need some help on how to do it? Do you have questions about which food your dog should be eating or how much they should be eating? Writing them down before your dog’s appointment can help you remember what to ask while you’re there.

Let’s Get Physical

Part of the examination will include palpating (feeling around) your dog’s body to check for any issues with their skin, coat, mouth (teeth and gums), eyes, ears, abdomen, muscles (and how they walk) and their general condition. While they’re looking your dog over, they will also check for external parasites (e.g., ticks, fleas or mites). Your veterinarian will listen to your dog’s heart and lungs to make sure they’re healthy, take their temperature and also check that your dog’s weight and body condition score are in a healthy range for their age and breed.

What’s Going on Inside Your Dog?

A physical examination can help your veterinarian check for external problems, but laboratory tests may be recommended to check for issues that your veterinarian can’t see. They may recommend collecting blood, urine, fecal or other samples from your dog to get a more complete picture of your dog’s health. They may also ask you to bring a fecal sample to the appointment so they can check for intestinal parasites (e.g., hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm).

If your dog has a medical condition, they can use the results of these laboratory tests and also the physical examination to check how the condition is progressing and if any adjustments to the treatment plan are needed.

It’s Booster Time

There are two vaccine types that your dog can receive — core and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are considered essential for all dogs due to the exposure risk of the disease it protects against, the disease severity and its ability to be transmitted to humans. Non-core vaccines are not essential for all dogs and will be recommended by your veterinarian depending on your dog’s age, geographic location, risk of exposure and lifestyle.

Boosters are typically required for core vaccines 12 months after the last vaccination, so your dog’s annual checkup is the perfect time for these boosters. Some vaccines may have different schedules; for example, there is a rabies vaccine that can be given every three years instead of every year. Your veterinarian will determine which vaccines your dog needs and how often they are needed.

Help Make the Clinic Visit a Happy One

Dogs can become stressed about visiting the veterinary clinic, but there are things you can do to help them remain calm — including staying calm yourself. Your dog could pick up on any anxiety you’re feeling and feel less secure themselves, so try to keep a positive, relaxed demeanor before, during and after the visit. It may also help to stop by the veterinary clinic for a social visit occasionally so that your dog doesn’t associate the clinic only with examinations, laboratory tests or other procedures. If they’re lucky, they may get a treat for visiting, too!

Hopefully your dog’s annual checkup will end with a “You’re all good. See you next year!” But if your veterinarian does have some concerns, they may recommend further testing, a change of diet, a lifestyle change or starting/changing prescription medication — all with the goal of keeping your dog healthy and ready for more adventures with you.

RELATED POST: Are Pet Wellness Plans Worth It?

Vet Visits: How to Calm Your Dog Down

Posted on October 13, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
A dog sitting on a table getting examined by a veterinarian wearing gloves.

An anxious dog at the veterinary clinic is certainly not an unusual sight. And who can blame them? There are weird smells, strange dogs, cats in carriers and other animals they’ve never encountered before. Eek! But there are some things you can do to help reduce your dog’s anxiety and stress about clinic visits.

How to Calm an Anxious Dog

One of the keys to de-stressing your pet’s trip to the vet clinic is to try to stay calm yourself. Dogs may not speak the same language as their owner, but they can pick up on shifts in their owner’s mood and body language, and they tend to know when they’re being rounded up to go somewhere. If you’re feeling anxious about taking your dog to the veterinary clinic, your dog might be able to sense that. So, the first step to helping your dog be at ease for their trip to the vet is to act in a positive manner and with a calm tone. It’s not an easy ask for pet owners, but it’s one that often helps.

A shift in your mood may not be all it takes to get your pup comfortable with their upcoming visit, though. And that’s okay. Similar to humans, each dog comes with their own personality, characteristics and needs. There’s an array of calming methods and strategies dog owners can try to get their canine companion ready for their vet visit.

What Can You Give a Dog to Calm Them Down?

Science tells us that dogs think through their nose. So try adding calming pheromones to your house and car before the appointment to reduce your dog’s anxiety. Synthetic pheromone products release dog-appeasing pheromones to provide your furry friend with a sense of calm and well-being. Pheromones can also be helpful with other anxieties and fears, like loud noises (e.g., thunderstorms and fireworks) and separation anxiety that can result in destructive behavior.

There are a variety of synthetic pheromone products such as edible treats and wearable collars that may help to keep your dog calm. It’s worth exploring different pheromone products — you may notice your dog relaxes better with a diffuser, or they may really warm up to a pheromone-releasing collar. There are different pheromone products for different species, so be sure to pick up one labeled for dogs.

How to Calm Down a Dog with Anxiety

Some dogs will take one look at their surroundings and let you know they’re not going anywhere. However, the key is to not drag your dog out of the car and put pressure on them by yanking their leash. Be gentle when removing them from the car or crate.

It’s human nature to want to comfort your pets and offer reassurance and affection when they’re in stressful situations. We totally get it. However, try to resist the urge to give them extra attention and tell them everything is okay. Oddly enough, these actions might show your dog that their anxious feelings are warranted and reduce your dog’s ability to handle a stressful situation. It’s OK to offer calm reassurance if it helps them feel secure, as long as it doesn’t inadvertently reward fearful or anxious behavior.

When loading the car, don’t forget to take along your pup’s favorite items. This could include favorite treats, a favorite blankie or their favorite toy. Not only are these items comforting for the car ride, but they can also be soothing while at the vet. You could also try some music therapy by playing calming, classical music in the car to help your dog relax.

Overcoming Your Dog’s Anxiety About Cars

Do you or someone you know get nauseous while riding in the car? Many dogs struggle with motion sickness as well. What you may have thought was a fear of the car (and where it’s going) may be your dog’s way of saying, “This contraption makes me feel sick when I get in it.”

You can help an anxious dog feel more comfortable about riding in the car by facing them towards a window. Many veterinarians say it’s comforting to most dogs if they can see outside during their travels. If you do see signs of your dog getting a little woozy in the car, stop and let them walk around in fresh air. This will help to make them feel better.

Also, try limiting food at least a couple of hours before car trips to help prevent tummy woes. If you have a dog that truly gets motion sick, it is best to ask your veterinarian about antinausea medications, as motion sickness may cause behavior problems and an increase in their anxiety level if it continues to occur.

To soothe more mental anxiety with a long-term approach, try training your dog to love the car. It’s best to start when they’re puppies, though. Your mileage may vary with older, set-in-their-ways dogs. If your dog isn’t used to regular trips in the car, they may only associate the car with a trip to the vet. Start to take them for short rides, then gradually increase the trips to other, happier places and build your dog’s confidence that the car isn’t scary. Get a pup cup. Go to the dog park for some exercise and playtime. By making car trips a routine occurrence, hopefully the car will eventually be a good thing, in your dog’s mind.

Vet Visits for Dogs Can Be Social Visits

Another way you can help reduce anxiety related to vet clinic visits is by showing your dog that the clinic isn’t always about checkups or the place you go to when you’re not feeling well. Call your clinic to see if you can stop by just to have the staff pet your dog and give them dog treats. By doing this a few times, you’ll teach your furry companion that the veterinary clinic can be a fun and rewarding environment with people who care about them.

Talk to Your Veterinarian About Your Dog’s Anxiety

If your dog is known to experience anxiety and discomfort while either riding in the car or visiting the veterinary clinic, talk with your vet ahead of time about additional tips and techniques to make visits more pleasant. These are common situations that your vet deals with on a regular basis with other dogs. They can give you strategies that help ensure your dog’s visit is the best possible experience for everyone involved.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Posted on October 6, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
The Verdict - Dogs Can Eat Pumpkin Infographic

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our new series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Read on!

Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs?

Can my dog eat pumpkin? The answer is a hearty oh yeah. Not only is pumpkin safe (in most cases), it’s full of nutrients and considered a superfood by many.

Pumpkin has many nutritional benefits. It’s high in fiber, which aids in digestion. It offers plenty of antioxidants, which help support a healthy immune system. And it’s packed with vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A can support healthy vision, while the high levels of vitamin C are another boost to the immune system. Meanwhile, magnesium supports easy digestion and zinc helps the skin and coat look and feel good.

Pumpkin has quite a few other gourd qualities for pets and owners. Plain, canned pumpkin with its gentle blandness is a popular stomach-soother if there’s an upset tummy in the (dog) house. In addition, the fiber levels in pumpkin can help stem the flow of doggy diarrhea. That fiber can be a factor in weight loss; since pumpkin is filling, you can supplement a dog’s diet with it so they won’t make so many visits to the food bowl.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Pumpkin?

As with everything you feed your dog that doesn’t come directly from a pet food bag, preparation is everything. Though raw pumpkin isn’t bad at all for your dog on a nutritional level, there are some physical dangers. Letting your dog chew on an actual pumpkin can mean choking hazards from chunks. Big chunks of raw pumpkin are harder to digest than cooked pumpkin, as well. And finally, stems and raw seeds aren’t good for your pup. So avoid using pumpkins as chew toys — otherwise your pup may need to visit their veterinarian!

If you want to feed fresh pumpkin, stick to unsweetened, fresh pumpkin puree. When a dog eats their regular food, a dab of pumpkin puree can be a nice little treat!

Raw pumpkin also comes with pumpkin seeds, which technically aren’t bad for dogs but can create issues in a dog’s diet. While pumpkin seeds count as superfoods for people, dogs don’t digest pumpkin seeds very efficiently, so they don’t really get much of the nutritional value. If they steal one or two during carving sessions, there’s no need to panic. But we wouldn’t make it a habit to feed your dog pumpkin seeds.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie Filling?

The best way to offer pumpkin, other than as an ingredient in your pup’s favorite dog food, is canned pumpkin: cooked, 100 PERCENT pumpkin, NOT pumpkin pie filling. Pie fillings contain sugar, spices and other ingredients that can upset a dog’s stomach, contribute to obesity, or worse. Make sure the canned pumpkin you offer is plain and without any additives. Can dogs eat canned pumpkin? Yes. Pumpkin pie filling: no.

So, Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

When feeding your dog any food, moderation is important. Too much pumpkin, like anything else, can cause an upset stomach. But when you feed pumpkin, how much pumpkin is too much pumpkin? You’ll have to check with your vet before you feed pumpkin to your dog. Check with your vet before offering any non-dog-food treat and feed according to your dog’s size, age and weight.

While largely good for your dog, pumpkin is a high-fiber food, and too much of a good thing can cause problems. Are you wondering, “Can dogs eat pumpkin?” The answer is yes!

An interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat pumpkins? Yes!’.

Can My Dog Eat Eggs?

Posted on September 1, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our new series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Read on!

Can dogs eat eggs? It’s no yolk — yes, it’s OK if dogs eat eggs! They need some kitchen prep first (i.e., cooking, because raw eggs are a no-no), but eggs can be a nutritious snack for most dogs, just like avocado!

A Healthy Treat Filled with Nutrients

Eggs are high in protein and are often included in pet food as a protein ingredient. They’re also a good source of minerals, vitamins and fatty acids. Technically, dogs can also eat eggshells, which are high in calcium, but it’s probably not a good idea since the shell can have sharp edges.

Like any new food, check with your veterinarian before your dogs eat eggs.

The high protein content of eggs can potentially stack the pounds on your dog if they eat too many, so ask your veterinarian how often to let your dog eat eggs. Chicken eggs are also a possible food allergen for dogs, so start with one and make sure your dog can tolerate it before feeding them regularly.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggs?

Raw eggs, like raw meat, carry a risk of contamination from Salmonella (or other bacteria), which can cause food poisoning. Symptoms from Salmonella infection (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) are not common in dogs, but can occur if your dog has a weakened immune system, such as from an infection or additional health condition. Also, Salmonella can be a problem for people, and infected dogs can shed the bacteria, which puts other animals and people in your home at risk. So, to avoid the chance of your dog (or you) falling ill from Salmonella due to raw eggs, it’s best to cook eggs to 160 °F before eating them.

Can Dogs Eat Scrambled Eggs?

Egg prep is key. If you’re asking “Can dogs eat scrambled eggs?” or “Can dogs eat hard-boiled eggs?” the answer is a resounding “yes!” Cooked eggs are the way. As long as the egg is cooked without butter or salt, you can serve it to your dog any way they like. What would be their favorite? Sunny-side up on top of some kibble? A hard-boiled egg gone in a few chomps? Scrambled (without seasoning) for breakfast with the family? So many choices! If your dog’s metabolism can tolerate eggs, then foods with egg as an ingredient are also OK, as long as the egg is cooked and the other ingredients are dog-safe, too. So eggnog is definitely off the list!

Can Puppies Eat Eggs?

Yes, for the most part, everything we’ve stated about dogs and eggs applies to puppies. The high protein content of eggs can be especially beneficial for growing puppies, but as with anything else you feed your puppy, do so in moderation. Too many eggs aren’t good for anyone. As with adult dogs, if you give your puppy dog eggs, be sure that you’re properly cooking the eggs. Feeding raw eggs or undercooked eggs to your puppy can have the same dire impacts as when you feed any adult dog raw eggs. For more information about your puppy and eggs, talk to your veterinarian.

So, Are Eggs Good for Dogs?

If you’re asking “Are eggs good for dogs?” you’re in luck. Eggs are great eggsamples of a nutritious treat most dogs will love. Just make sure you serve cooked eggs, because when dogs eat raw eggs, there are risks involved. But cooking eggs for your dog’s breakfast instead of other breakfast foods like avocado or bacon? Egg-celent!

If you’ve ever wondered “Can my dog eat that?” about any food, from cheese to grapes, be sure to bookmark this series.

An interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat eggs? Yes! (If they're cooked)’.

Can My Dog Eat Tomatoes?

Posted on August 4, 2022 - 2:05 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our new series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Read on!

If your dog’s eyes are saying “Please throw that red, juicy, ball-looking food my way,” the good news is you can! Ripe tomatoes (either raw or cooked) are nontoxic and can be included on the list of snacks for your dog, as long as they’re eaten in moderation.

Like all new food, it’s a good idea to introduce your dog to tomatoes gradually to make sure they tolerate them well. Due to their acidity, tomatoes can cause an upset stomach if your dog eats too many. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may find the acidity of just one tomato too much for them. And while ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs, a lot of human foods that are tomato-based also contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs (e.g., garlic, onion, chives). So be sure to check the ingredient label before feeding your dog any tomato-based people food.

A Good Source of Antioxidants and Fiber

Tomatoes or dried tomato pomace (the skin, pulp and seeds) are often included in dog food formulas, like Taste of the Wild, Taste of the Wild PREY and Taste of the Wild with Ancient Grains, because they are a good source of nutrients. Tomatoes are a source of vitamin C and lycopene, which are important antioxidants. Free radicals are produced during normal metabolism and can damage molecules in your dog’s body that are essential for maintaining good health. Antioxidants help protect your dog from these damaging free radicals.

Dried tomato pomace is a good, balanced source of soluble and insoluble fiber, as well as a source of vitamin C and lycopene. Dietary fiber helps support digestive health and firm stools. The tomato pomace fiber is fermented in your dog’s large intestine to produce short-chain fatty acids that are an energy source for intestinal cells. Dietary fiber also regulates colon pH and encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon.

Can Dogs Eat Cooked Tomatoes?

When dogs eat tomatoes, it generally doesn’t matter if they’re cooked or raw, as long as you cook them yourself. Pre-cooked tomatoes might have additives like salt or sugar that aren’t good for your pup. Same goes for tomato sauce. If you make it yourself and don’t add anything but the tomatoes, tomato sauce should be a nice addition to a bowl of dog food.

Can Dogs Eat Canned Tomatoes?

Dogs should not eat canned tomatoes for the same reasons they shouldn’t eat tomatoes you didn’t cook yourself. There are too many added ingredients, like salt or onions, that aren’t good for your dog, so avoid the can.

Can Dogs Eat Cherry Tomatoes?

Yes, if you apply the same rules to cherry tomatoes as you do with regular tomatoes, dogs can eat them. No leaves or other green parts, and cherry tomatoes should be cleaned and ripe.

Ripe Tomatoes or Unripe Tomatoes?

Always ripe. Unripe tomatoes can be dangerous for your dog due to the presence of toxins like solanine and tomatine, which are found in the green parts of the tomato plant, including the tomato itself when it’s still green. A good rule of paw is to NEVER give anything green from a tomato plant to your dog.

Avoid Everything Else on the Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are members of the nightshade family of plants. Nightshades, which also include potatoes, peppers and eggplant, contain alkaloids that can be toxic in large amounts. The alkaloid solanine is used by nightshade plants as an insecticide while they’re growing. Tomato plants also contain the toxin tomatine, which is found in the green parts of the plant, in unripe (green) tomatoes and in the flowers.

Your dog could be at risk of tomatine poisoning if they ingest a large amount of green tomatoes or the tomato plant. However, it’s unlikely that your dog would actually eat enough to become seriously ill, and if they do, it usually isn’t fatal. If your dog has eaten a large amount of green tomatoes or the plant itself, contact your veterinarian so they can determine if treatment is needed. Tomato poisoning is a real danger when you feed tomatoes to your dog, so always exercise caution.

So, Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?

When you ask “Can dogs eat tomatoes?” the answer is a hearty “Yep!” A ripe tomato is a great snack choice for most dogs. Just make sure your dog doesn’t get into the vegetable patch and snack on the plants instead.

An interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat tomatoes? Yes! (If they're ripe)’.

Can Dogs Eat Avocado?

Posted on June 2, 2022 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Today we discuss what happens when a dog eats avocado. Read on!

Good for Humans, Good for Dogs?

For people, avocados are a superfood. Like eggs, they are a nutrient- and antioxidant-dense food. Avocados are arguably the best fruit for supplying your potassium, fiber and vitamin E. They’re such useful foodstuffs that there always seems to be a threat of either rising prices or outright shortages here in the United States. Avocado oil seems to trend regularly, and many houses have an avocado plant as a functional decoration.

So if eating avocado flesh has so many nutritional benefits for humans, your dog should be able to benefit too, right?

Can Dogs Eat Avocado? It’s Not That Simple.

Well, yes and no. The actual avocado flesh, or meat (the green part of the avocado that goes in your guacamole), of the avocado is generally pretty safe and healthy, providing that your dog doesn’t eat too much of it.  But avocado peel and pits contain persin, a substance that is poisonous to dogs. Since the peel and pit are typically discarded before prepping the meat, what is left can be safely consumed by most dogs. But too much persin from avocado flesh can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs, and there’s a small chance of worse problems, even death, if they ingest a LOT. And the green flesh can be an issue in bulk, because the high fat content that avocados are lauded for can cause pancreatitis.

So make sure the skin and pit are disposed of properly, where your dog can’t get them. Are avocados good for dogs? They can be, but there are too many drawbacks to risk it.

Choking Is A Danger When You Feed Your Dog Avocado

In addition to the dangers of persin poisoning, the avocado pit is a major choking hazard. It’s often the size of a ping-pong ball and can cause a complete blockage if it is ingested, especially by bigger, enthusiastically eating dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Guacamole?

All the reasons that a dog shouldn’t eat avocado apply to whether a dog can eat guacamole, but guacamole contains other problem ingredients as well. Many guacamole recipes contain doggy dangers like onion and garlic, which are even more dangerous than dogs eating avocado.

Can Dogs Eat Avocado Oil?

The drawbacks of avocado oil are also much the same as they are with avocado itself. Avocado oil is extremely high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Any food that is high in fat — whether it’s solid, liquid or somewhere in between — should be fed to your dog in small amounts to avoid harmful impacts. Persin oil is colorless, so it might be found in avocado oil which is why avocado oil is best avoided by dogs.

Use Precaution When Dogs Eat Near Avocado Prep

So if you’re a fan of avocados, keep your dog in mind when prepping and disposing of them. Make sure that discarded peels, leaves and pits are thrown away where your dog can’t get to them. If you think that your dog may have ingested the peel or pit, be on the lookout for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or abdominal pain.  If you suspect that they’ve eaten the peels, pit or leaves, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Reconsider Before Your Dog Eats Avocado

Can dogs eat avocado? Short answer is “no.” It’s far safer to keep the avocados, avocado toast, avocado pits and avocado pulp away from your dog, especially if your dog has a history of pancreatitis or sensitive stomach issues.

There are plenty of other ways to give them superfoods! When in doubt, stick to veterinarian-approved dog food, and if you suspect that your dog — or any pet — has eaten avocado or shows symptoms of persin poisoning, contact your vet immediately.

If you enjoyed this post about what your dog can or can’t eat, bookmark our Can My Dog Eat That? series, where you’ll find helpful info about whether your dog can eat so many things, like other breakfast foods like eggs, cheese and dozens of others.

An interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat avocado? Avocado Flesh — Yes! Avocado Peel and Pit — No!’.

Can My Dog Eat That? Peas

Posted on May 5, 2022 - 2:05 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our new series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Read on!

Yes, most dogs likely can eat most peas (with a few caveats).

In fact, peas, much like carrots and other vegetables, pack such a nutritional punch that they’re quite popular ingredients in pet food. Loaded with carbohydrates, fiber, antioxidants and protein, peas are good additions to pet foods. A single serving of peas provides nearly the entire daily portion of amino acids a dog needs. Some studies even suggest that if peas are the primary source of carbohydrates in an obese dog’s diet, the dog’s insulin levels might be lowered.

If you’re considering offering your dog peas as an additional snack outside of the dog food bag, they are indeed a great option in moderation. Green peas and snow peas are perfect little treats for most dogs because they’re not only nutritious but small like kibble, so there’s low choking danger.

Not All Peas Are Sweet Options

Here’s the caveat: Sweet peas — the flowering, nonedible plant that isn’t a vegetable — should always be avoided. Sweet peas contain a toxin called aminopropionitrile, which can cause weakness, lethargy, seizures and even death. Even a single sweet pea contains enough aminopropionitrile to make your dog seriously ill. If you suspect that your dog has ingested aminopropionitrile or any other poison, call the Pet Poison Helpline IMMEDIATELY at (855) 764-7661.

Serving Them Up

When serving your dog peas, always make sure that they are shelled. The shells can crack in your dog’s mouth and become a choking hazard. But once free of their shelled prisons, snow peas are safe to eat.

You can feed them fresh peas one-by-one as treats, add a few cooked peas to your dog’s regular food to dress it up a bit, or even add a tiny dollop of blended peas to any meal. If you’re using frozen peas, make sure to thaw them completely as frozen peas can be hard to chew and could become choking hazards.

If your dog has kidney issues, peas should mostly be avoided, as peas contain uric acid, a substance that can cause kidney stones in dogs without fully functioning kidneys. And, as always, before changing your dog’s diet in any way, consult with your veterinarian. Every dog is different, and your veterinarian knows them better than anyone but you.

However you serve them, peas are a fine addition to most dogs’ diets.

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RELATED POST: Can My Dog Eat That: A Guide by Taste of the Wild

Summer Safety Tips for Your New Puppy

Posted on April 28, 2022 - 2:22 pm by
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There are several benefits to getting a puppy in or just before summer. Kids are out of school, so they may have extra time to devote to training and bonding with a new summer puppy. Walks are rarely pre-empted by the weather. Driving in the car with the windows down is a doggy delight.

But the summer sun can be every bit as dangerous to a puppy as frostbitten toes. Here are a few tips for prioritizing summer puppy safety while still enjoying all the fun summer has to offer.

A LITTLE SUN GOES A LONG WAY FOR SUMMER PUPPIES

Although puppies are balls of energy, they don’t need nearly as much exercise as adults. While there’s no absolute minute count for how much exercise a puppy needs (it varies by age and breed), 15 to 20 minutes twice a day in the first few months should suffice. But with soaring summer temperatures, even that much time outside can be too much.

Whether it’s hot or cold or anywhere in between, always pay attention to your puppy’s panting and energy level to see when they’re ready to call it a day. But in the summer, note that if you’re feeling hot, they are too… and also consider the fur coat they’re wearing. (Pet parents of short-nose breeds like pugs and bulldogs will need to take extra caution, as those breeds are more prone to overheating.) Try to limit walks to early mornings or evenings, and carry water with you at all times. Dogs regulate their body temperature from the ground up. Hot asphalt can be dangerous to a puppy’s sensitive paws and will cause their body temperature to rise faster. Walk your dog in the grass and let them splash in a puddle, stream or wading pool to help cool off. Similar to cold-weather booties, you can even opt to protect your dog’s paws with a pair of cooling shoes.

WHEN IT’S TOO HOT, PUPPY SAFETY BEGINS INSIDE

Due to their smaller size, you may be able to sneak extra exercise indoors, and you can mix it up by using “play” as training exercises. Use a long hallway to teach your puppy how to fetch. Or play hide-and-seek: Teach the puppy to “stay” while you go hide, then call to them once and reward them when they find you. Avoid using stairs for exercise, though, as the growth plates in a puppy’s bones are not completely formed, and the wrong impact could cause permanent damage.

FREEZE IT FOR SUMMER PUPPY GOODNESS

Let your puppy participate in outdoor fun with some delicious cool treats made just for them. Another way to keep pups cool but entertained is by creating an ice lick from water and chicken broth. Freeze toys and treats inside the mixture. They’ll love the taste while seeing how many licks it takes to get to the reward.

NEVER, EVER LEAVE YOUR PUPPY IN A PARKED CAR

If you are going anywhere alone, then use your absence as crate-training practice. On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car with the windows cracked can break 102 degrees in just 10 minutes and reach 120 degrees in 30 minutes. If there is a chance you’d have to leave your pup alone in the car, make other arrangements. Keep in mind that you should never leave any pet, regardless of age, inside a hot car.

TAKE SUMMER PUPPY SAFETY SERIOUSLY

Just like with most wild animals, your puppy has instincts. Wild instincts. Just like small children, puppies need extra care in extreme environments (like in high temperatures and around water). Keep in mind your puppy’s breed and the behaviors they’re inclined to when considering summer activities. And always consult your veterinarian for information about the safety and health of your puppy. Good luck, and remember: The only hot dogs in your yard this summer should be on the grill.

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RELATED POST: Taking the Plunge: Water Safety Tips for Dogs

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Can My Dog Eat Grapes?

Posted on February 3, 2022 - 3:30 pm by
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Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our new series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Read on!

A grape or two might seem like a harmless snack for your dog. After all, it’s just fruit, and mostly water at that. But what happens if your dog eats grapes? Unlike other fruits like cranberries or blueberries, grapes can be toxic to dogs, potentially leading to acute kidney failure and even death. Grape and raisin poisoning are real dangers for dogs.

This applies to all types of grapes, whether they’re red, green, seeded or seedless, organic or grown conventionally. But fresh grapes aren’t the only problem. Grapes that have been dried — otherwise known as raisins, sultanas (light brown, seedless raisins) and Zante currents — can be problematic as well.

The same goes for foods in your pantry that contain raisins, including cookies, bars and breads, granola mix, trail mix and raisin bran cereal. It’s not clear if grape jelly, grape juice or wine could be hazardous, but why take the risk?

What makes even a few grapes toxic?

Until recently, no one knew why, exactly, dogs and grapes shouldn’t mix. But veterinarians at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center discovered that tartaric acid (the ingredient cream of tartar is made from) might be the culprit. The amount of tartaric acid in grapes can vary depending on the type of grape, the degree of ripeness and the growing conditions.

In addition to varying levels within the grapes, dogs can have individual responses to the fruit, making it frustratingly difficult to determine how many will be a problem. Dogs have had a toxic reaction after eating as little as 0.32 ounces of grapes and 0.05 ounces of raisins per pound of body weight. It’s not a food you want your dog eating!

If your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, call your veterinarian or the closest veterinary emergency clinic immediately.

Symptoms when dogs eat grapes

It doesn’t take long for signs of toxicity to appear. Within hours of eating grapes or raisins, dogs may vomit and refuse to eat. If your dog surfed your countertop without your knowledge, you may find the telltale signs of grapes in the vomit. The dog may also have diarrhea, show signs of abdominal pain, drooling, dehydration and lethargy. They may drink and urinate more than normal, or in more advanced cases, they may produce little or no urine.

Seek veterinary help immediately

Since kidney damage can happen quickly, it’s best to call your veterinarian as soon as possible. While there’s no specific test to determine if your dog is experiencing grape toxicity, it’s generally diagnosed based on the history of grape consumption or grapes found in the vomit.

When your dog eats grapes or raisins within the last hour or two and hasn’t vomited yet, the doctor will probably recommend that vomiting be induced to get the toxins out of the stomach. Once that’s accomplished, your dog may be given activated charcoal by mouth, which may help prevent further absorption of toxins into your dog’s system.

In cases of grape or raisin toxicity, some dogs may need aggressive therapy, including hospitalization and intravenous fluids. The veterinarian may recommend blood work and urinalyses to monitor kidney function. Dogs may also benefit from stomach protectants, medications to control vomiting and nutritional support.

While ingestion of grapes should always be avoided in dogs, other fruits can be healthy and safe snacks for your pooch. Consider offering apple slices (remove the seeds), cantaloupe, blueberries, strawberries or bananas instead.

Can One Grape Kill a Dog?

Can one grape kill a dog? Yes, one grape can be extremely harmful. Grape toxicity is a real threat no matter how many grapes a dog eats. When dogs eat grapes, grape poisoning is always a possibility. Grapes or raisins, quite simply, are toxic to dogs, whether it’s one grape, green grapes, seedless grapes, red grapes, etc. If you suspect that grape poisoning has occurred and you cannot seek immediate treatment, you can call  Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 for immediate advice. Your dog’s health, and kidney failure specifically, is always a concern when your dog ate a grape.

To learn more about why grapes are bad for dogs, check out this article.

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