What can a dog eat and not eat?

Can a dog eat an apple? What do dogs like to eat most? Is mint poisonous to dogs? Many dog owners will recognize this: you are walking your puppy, or perhaps your already adult dog, and before you know it, your loyal four-legged friend has picked something up again. Other dog owners enjoy treating their pet to something extra from time to time. A dog's digestive and metabolic systems work very differently from ours. Many people therefore wonder what a dog may and may not eat. We have compiled the most frequently asked questions for you.

What must dogs not eat?

❌ Avocado: can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, it can even cause pancreatitis.

❌ Caffeine: this is very bad for dogs. Caffeine increases breathing rate and heart rate.

❌ Mushrooms and toadstools: dogs that eat mushrooms can go into shock, and may ultimately die as a result.

❌ Chocolate: theobromine, the substance found in chocolate, is highly toxic to dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains.

❌ Grapes: can lead to kidney failure and ultimately death. Dogs must not eat grapes.

❌ Garlic: eating (large amounts of) garlic can cause stomach cramps and anemia.

❌ Nuts: most nuts are not good for your dog. Macadamia nuts and walnuts in particular should not be given.

❌ Raw potato: raw potato contains solanine, which is poisonous. Boiled potatoes lose this substance and may therefore be given.

❌ Raw pork: raw pork can contain Aujeszky's disease, which is fatal to dogs.

❌ Tomatoes (unripe): all green parts of the tomato contain solanine and tomatine. These are toxic to dogs.

❌ Onion: eating onion causes stomach cramps and can also cause anemia.

❌ Xylitol: this substance is found in chewing gum, toothpaste, and peppermint, among other products. If your dog eats it, they may develop symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, or seizures. In very serious cases, your dog may fall into a coma.

Which vegetables can a dog eat?

Vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, enzymes, fatty acids, and fiber, among other nutrients. For us humans, it goes without saying that we need these, but they can also be a good addition to your dog's diet! Below is a list of vegetables that are suitable for feeding your dog:

✅ Alfalfa

✅ Endive

✅ Asparagus

✅ Beetroot

✅ Celery

✅ Cauliflower

✅ Broccoli sprouts

✅ Kale (not in large quantities)

✅ Chinese cabbage

✅ Zucchini

✅ Cucumber

✅ Parsnip

✅ Pumpkin

✅ Snow peas

✅ Red cabbage

✅ Radishes

✅ Brussels sprouts

✅ Swiss chard

✅ Green beans

✅ Runner beans

✅ Belgian endive

✅ White cabbage

✅ Carrots