Even loving dog owners can accidentally share dangerous “people food.” Some foods are mildly upsetting; others are life-threatening. Use this quick Canadian-friendly checklist to keep your pup safe and know what to do if exposure happens.

Foods toxic to dogs (avoid completely)

Chocolate (especially dark/baking) – theobromine can cause vomiting, tremors, seizures.
Grapes and raisins – can trigger sudden kidney failure, even in small amounts.
Xylitol (often in sugar-free gum, mints, peanut butter, baked goods) – rapid blood sugar drop and liver injury.
Onions, garlic, leeks, chives (raw, cooked, powdered) – can damage red blood cells (anemia).
Alcohol (including fermenting dough) – dangerous neurologic and breathing effects.
Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) – agitation, fast heart rate, tremors.
Macadamia nuts – weakness, vomiting, fever, shaky gait.
Cooked bones – splintering risk, choking, bowel obstruction (common after BBQs).
Raw bread dough/yeast – stomach expansion + alcohol production.

“Not worth the risk” foods & common Canadian kitchen hazards

High-fat foods (bacon, gravy, poutine leftovers) – can cause pancreatitis.
Salt-heavy snacks (chips, cured meats) – dehydration, sodium toxicity in excess.
Dairy – many dogs are lactose intolerant (diarrhea, gas).
Fruit pits & cores (apple core, stone fruit pits) – choking/intestinal blockage; some contain cyanogenic compounds.

What to do if your dog eats something toxic

Act fast: remove access, save the packaging, and note the amount and time eaten. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.

In Canada, contact your veterinarian, an emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (fee may apply). If symptoms start (vomiting, wobbliness, seizures, collapse), go to emergency care immediately.

Bottom line: Keep toxic foods locked up, read labels for xylitol, and teach a “leave it” cue. When in doubt, treat it as urgent—minutes can matter.