7 Foods Your Furry Can't Eat | Deadly Risks and a Complete Guide to Avoiding Them 🐶🚫

Hong Kong families are most vulnerable to pets snatching food from the dining table. Some of these accidents are real landmines, not just causing diarrhea; serious consequences can be fatal. This editor has compiled the key points, explaining the dangers, the symptoms, how to avoid them, and how to address them immediately. We've also provided safe alternatives to give everyone peace of mind.

🍫 Chocolate

Explain the danger

Contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolize very slowly and can stimulate the heart and nervous system. Dark chocolate and baking cocoa powder have higher concentrations, and a small amount is enough to cause problems.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Vomiting, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and tremors are common within 2–6 hours; in severe cases, convulsions, fever, irregular heartbeat, and even sudden death may occur.

Lightning protection methods for homes

All chocolates, cocoa powder, cookies, and cakes must be sealed high up; birthday party desserts must be put away after consumption; carpet crumbs must be vacuumed up immediately.

Safe alternative

Use cocoa-free treats or crackers for dogs. If you want a "chocolate ritual," use dog-friendly cards or shaped toys instead.

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

Note the duration of the reaction, estimate the dosage and concentration (black/milk/powder), remain calm, and seek medical attention as soon as possible; pray for the best and treat the symptoms first.

🍇 Grapes and raisins

Explain the danger

It is known to cause acute renal failure; there are large individual differences, so even a small amount is not acceptable. Raisins have a higher density and are even more dangerous.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Vomiting, abdominal pain, and fatigue within a few hours; progression may include decreased or no urination, dehydration, bad breath (uremia), etc.

Lightning protection methods for homes

Keep snack boxes, dried fruit plates, bread and cakes out of sight and reach of pets; pay attention to residues on the ground when going out for a picnic.

Safe alternative

Optional blueberries (small amount), cored and seeded apples, diced strawberries (to control portion size and sugar content).

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

Seek medical attention as soon as possible; provide the time and possible amount of ingestion. The earlier the treatment, the better the kidney function can be preserved.

🧄 Onions and garlic (including shallots, leeks, and other alliums)

Explain the danger

Sulfur compounds can damage red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia; they are dangerous whether consumed raw or cooked, and are also not suitable for use in soup bases, powders, or seasonings.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Within a few days to a week, patients may experience fatigue, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, pale gums, and brown urine; vomiting and diarrhea may also occur in the early stages.

Lightning protection methods for homes

Hong Kong-style food is almost all fried with onion and garlic, so it is not easy to share the food. It is not easy for the furry child to lick the bowl before washing the dishes.

Safe alternative

Steamed granules of light chicken breast, pumpkin puree, and carrots for dogs; when cooking, add onions and garlic to the owner's portion, and keep the pet's portion light.

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

Pay attention to urine color and spirit, and check blood count as soon as possible; delaying will easily worsen the condition.

🥜 Macadamia nuts (including other nuts)

Explain the danger

Macadamia nuts are neurotoxic, and even a small amount can cause weakness, unsteady gait, and muscle tremors; other nuts are extremely high in oil and can easily induce gastroenteritis or pancreatitis.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Weakness, hind limb paralysis, tremors, and vomiting develop within 12–48 hours; most symptoms persist for a period of time.

Lightning protection methods for homes

Cover and keep New Year's nut plates off the ground; seal garbage from picnic snacks in bags immediately; and remove leftover baked cakes immediately.

Safe alternative

Use low-fat dog training pellets and freeze-dried meat; avoid peanut butter (if used, make sure it does not contain xylitol and use it in small amounts).

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

Bring the packaging or take photos for your doctor's evaluation; observe changes in neurological symptoms.

🍰 Xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy/baking)

Explain the danger

It can cause a surge in insulin levels, a sharp drop in blood sugar, and can even lead to liver damage. It's commonly found in sugar-free chewing gum, throat lozenges, baking sweeteners, toothpaste, and vitamin tablets.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Rapid vomiting, weakness, unsteady gait, convulsions; severe cases may lead to coma or liver failure.

Lightning protection methods for homes

Chewing gum/lozenges in handbag and jacket pockets should be kept out of reach; toothbrushes should not be left unattended on the counter.

Safe alternative

Dog tooth cleaning sticks and mouthwash (for dogs); the word "sugar-free" does not mean it is safe for dogs.

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

See a doctor immediately to check blood sugar and liver enzymes; be prepared for possible intake amounts and time.

🥔 Potatoes with skin (especially if they are green)

Explain the danger

The skin and green part contain solanine, which is toxic; heating may not be completely harmless. French fries and potato chips also have the added burden of high oil and salt.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Gastrointestinal discomfort, drooling, drowsiness, abnormal gait; severe cases may cause convulsions.

Lightning protection methods for homes

Peel, remove sprouts, and cook thoroughly before using as a side dish in small quantities; cover the kitchen waste bin and discard after peeling.

Safe alternative

Peel and cook a small amount of pumpkin and sweet potato; starch is only used as a garnish, not to dominate the dish.

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

Keep food samples for your doctor's reference; observe neurological symptoms and gastrointestinal status.

🥑 Avocado

Explain the danger

Contains avocado oil (Persin), which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties; the pit also poses a choking risk, and the skin and leaves are also unsafe.

What are the symptoms if you accidentally eat something?

Symptoms of gastroenteritis, shortness of breath, and poor mental state; severe cases may include pleural effusion or complications.

Lightning protection methods for homes

When handling avocados, seal and discard the skin and core immediately; keep pets away from the kitchen and dining counter when making salads and sushi.

Safe alternative

Use salmon puree and shredded chicken for dogs to provide healthy fats; combine fruits and vegetables in small amounts with low-risk options.

If you suspect accidental ingestion, take action immediately

If you also experience difficulty breathing or suspected choking, seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible.

Home Protection Checklist (Long-term application)

Family Rules Trilogy

• All human food should be placed in sealed cabinets and off the floor. Clean the table and vacuum up the crumbs immediately after meals; don't wait.

• Never share human food with your pets; they only eat their own food and snacks.

• Snacks and medicines are separated; chewing gum, throat lozenges, health tablets, and toothpaste are placed in the "high-risk drawer".

High-risk scenario reminder

• Birthday parties, holidays, picnics, and baking days are the times when accidents are most likely to happen; designate a "Food Safety Captain" to patrol the area, pick up crumbs, and remind family members.

• Some families with children are complaining that they need to strengthen their education on "don't feed them, don't compete".

Immediate steps if you suspect ingestion

• Note down the time, type, estimated portion size and strength (e.g. dark chocolate/sugar-free chewing gum).

• Keep the package or take a photo; stay calm and seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.

Editor's summary

The hardest part of being a dog owner in Hong Kong is dealing with your pet's whims. But if you truly love your dog, you must adhere to the "no sharing" rule. Remember the seven high-risk foods: chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, macadamia nuts (and nuts), xylitol, potatoes with skins, and avocados. Establish consistent family rules, increase storage space, and learn to manage food accidents, and you'll naturally maintain a stable routine. Want to share a delicious treat? Combine healthy, fresh food with dog treats for a satisfying ritual without making any mistakes. This editor has been here all along. Maintain a few good habits to ensure your pet's happiness and safety first!