As a new dog parent, you could make the mistake of feeding them foods that are seemingly healthy. But it’s crucial to understand that the digestive systems of our four-legged companions are much different from those of humans. While some foods are safe and healthy for humans, they can be harmful or even dangerous for your dog. To keep your dog healthy and safe, it’s vital to know which common foods are bad for their system.

1. Grapes and Raisins
   As sweet as they are, grapes and raisins are among the worst foods that a dog can eat. Both are known to cause kidney failure in dogs. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy may be observed within just 12 hours of ingestion. Dehydration and decreased appetite and urination arise if its consumption is left unchecked. So, make sure that you always keep these foods out of the reach of your dog.
2. Chocolate and Caffeine
   Both chocolate and coffee are infamous for being harmful to dogs. They contain stimulants called methylxanthines that can disturb a dog’s natural metabolic process. Even small amounts of chocolates, especially the dark ones, can trigger diarrhea and vomiting. These foods can cause seizures, irregular heart function, and even death.
3. Avocados
   The compound present in avocados, i.e., persin, is safe for humans but can be very poisonous to dogs. If your dog eats an avocado, fluid may accumulate in their lungs and chest, causing breathing difficulties, which can be life-threatening. Persin is also found in avocado fruit, leaves, seed, and bark. So, pet parents should avoid growing avocados at home.
4. Nuts
   You must avoid giving any kind of nuts to your dog. While they are nutritious for human consumption, the excess oils and fat in them are bad for your dog’s digestive system. Consuming nuts in large quantities can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis in dogs. Macadamia nuts are the most dangerous. When ingested, it can cause serious symptoms such as muscle shakes, increased body temperature, walking difficulty, and lethargy.
5. Garlic and Onion
   These vegetables, especially garlic, can cause serious damage to your dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia. However, keep in mind that small doses are okay. When fed in excess, symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, and breathlessness can occur. However, these symptoms may flare up for only a couple of days after ingestion.
6. Citrus Fruits
   Although not lethal, both citrus fruits and plants can be problematic for your furry friend. Small doses of fruits containing citric acids, like lime and orange, can lead to stomach upset in dogs. However, when taken in significant amounts, it can cause central nervous system depression.
7. Dairy Products
   A dog’s digestive system cannot effectively break down dairy products. Giving your dog milk, cheese, or plain yogurt in small quantities is safe, but too much can cause digestive problems. And if your dog is lactose intolerant, dairy products can cause diarrhea and vomiting.