Dogs should avoid spices like garlic, onion, nutmeg, cocoa powder, salt, chili powder, cayenne, cloves, and mustard, as these can cause serious issues from stomach upset and anemia to seizures and liver damage, with onion and garlic being particularly toxic due to compounds that damage red blood cells. Always check with your vet before introducing any new seasoning to your dog's diet, and when in doubt, leave it out.
Nutmeg is dangerous for dogs and contains myristicin, which can cause abdominal pain when digested in large doses. 2 &3. Allspice. Cloves. Allspice and cloves contain eugenol, which can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset with diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and could end in liver disease in severe/extreme cases.
Dogs don't need to be fed spice. A sprinkle of basil or parsley on your dog's treats is sure to get a kiss of approval from your canine companion. Just steer clear of known toxic herbs and spices like garlic, salt, cocoa, and nutmeg.
For some great herbs to add to your dog's diet, read our blog on Herbs for Dogs. In conclusion, some spices, such as ginger and turmeric, can benefit dogs greatly, but other spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, can be dangerous. Feed your dog with specially formulated dog food that contains all the necessary nutrients.
Paprika is not toxic to dogs but can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Monitor your dog for any symptoms like excessive drooling, stomach discomfort, or changes in appetite. If symptoms occur, provide plenty of water and avoid feeding spicy or seasoned human foods.
Dogs are natural carnivores, and their ancestral diet was rich in animal proteins. Flavors like beef, chicken, and pork are particularly enticing to them. The savory and umami taste of meat triggers a pleasurable response in dogs, making meat-flavored treats a surefire hit.
There's no single "number one" food, but chocolate, grapes/raisins, and foods containing the artificial sweetener xylitol are among the most dangerous and common toxic items, causing issues from vomiting and seizures to kidney failure or death; other major threats include onions/garlic, alcohol, and fatty/cooked bones that can splinter. Always contact your vet immediately if your dog eats anything suspicious.
Yes, dogs can eat ginger in small quantities. This tropical plant is generally considered safe for our four-legged friends because it doesn't contain toxic substances.
Anti Inflammatory Foods for Dogs
Heartworm disease is among the top silent killers of dogs and cats, and it's a slow and insidious disease which gradually incapacitates them. By the time pet owners notice the giveaway signs of this disease, serious damage may already have been caused.
The 10 best dog food toppers include canned pumpkin, fresh vegetables, sardines, phytoplankton, raw eggs, anchovies, cucumbers, bone broth, plain yogurt or kefir, and blueberries. These toppers not only enhance the taste of your dog's meals but also provide added nutrients and health benefits.
Safe Herbs
These include basil, sage, parsley, rosemary, cilantro, and lavender. Turmeric and cinnamon are okay for Fido, while catnip, dandelion, valerian, echinacea, and goldenseal are fine for Fluffy. Some herbs can actually be beneficial to your furry pal.
Common toxic foods for dogs
The leading cause of death in dogs, especially older dogs, is cancer (neoplasia), affecting about 1 in 4 dogs, similar to humans, with specific breeds at higher risk. Other significant causes include old age, heart disease, digestive disorders (like bloat), infectious diseases (like Parvo), and trauma, with sterilization influencing risks for cancer and infections.
Nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, disorientation, high blood pressure, and even seizures in pets. Clove and allspice contain eugenol, which can lead to liver toxicity especially in cats.
Ensuring your pets have a healthy digestive system is easy by adding ginger and turmeric to their diets. Look for these super ingredients to give your pets happier and healthier lives!
Fortunately, there are medications that can calm your dog's tummy woes. Veterinarians often prescribe maropitant (Cerenia) for dogs experiencing nausea and vomiting. You can also give ondansetron (Zofran), a human medication, to your dog. Small, bland meals may help settle your dog's stomach.
If any of the following signs develop, stop giving ginger and contact your veterinarian immediately: An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face.
Dogs should not eat grapes, raisins, currants (can cause kidney failure), avocados (persin toxin), cherries, plums, peaches, apricots (pits/seeds contain cyanide & are choking hazards), or citrus fruits like lemons/limes (cause stomach upset). Also avoid the green parts of tomatoes and wild berries, and be cautious with seeds/pits from many fruits due to cyanide and obstruction risks.
The 90/10 rule for dogs means that 90% of their daily calories should come from a complete and balanced dog food, while only 10% should come from treats, chews, and table scraps, preventing weight gain and ensuring proper nutrition. This guideline helps owners manage treat portions, preventing unbalanced diets and health issues like obesity, joint problems, and diabetes, as treats can be surprisingly high in calories, even healthy ones.
Crunchy, flavorful, and nutritious, carrots are great for dogs. They're rich in beta-carotene (a source of Vitamin A) and help improve your dog's dental health by reducing plaque buildup. Feed pieces appropriate for the size of your dog to avoid choking. Blueberries are a superfood for dogs.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, representing 3 days (overwhelmed/hiding), 3 weeks (settling in/testing boundaries), and 3 months (feeling at home/bonding) to help owners manage expectations and provide patience, routine, and a calm environment, understanding that anxiety is normal as they decompress from a stressful past. It's a framework for recognizing stress and fostering trust, not a rigid timeline, but it helps owners understand why a new dog might seem timid or act out initially.
Leaning into you
Leaning against your leg (or whatever part is closest to them) is a big sign that they love you. If you find your dog leaning against you, take a moment to pet him and show him some extra affection.
An hour for a dog feels much longer than an hour for a human because dogs perceive time more slowly due to their faster metabolism and heightened awareness of routines, so a 10-minute wait can feel like 70 minutes to them, and your hour-long absence feels like an eternity, though they don't grasp clock time but rather the intervals between events like meals, walks, and your return.