Common poisons in dogs
There are many everyday products, foods and plants in our environment which pose a danger to dogs. In order to help prevent exposure to and ingestion of these products there are some measures that can be taken, the most important of all is as awareness of what is poisonous.
Below is a list of poisonous products, plants and foods. The list is not exhaustive but does cover the most common causes of poisoning in dogs. To help prevent dogs being exposed to or ingesting any of the products listed, please ensure they are kept in suitable containers and out of reach. This is important for younger dogs and those likely to scavenge, especially where food products are concerned.
If your dog ingests any of the products listed below, please follow these steps to help ensure they get prompt and appropriate aid:
1. Contact your veterinary surgeon, who will ask for information on what the dog has eaten, how much, when and for any information on the packaging (if applicable).
2. Follow the advice given by your veterinary practice.
3. If they ask you to take the dog to the practice, take with you any packaging from the product as this can provide important information on the ingredients and concentration.
Ringing ahead before going to the vets ensures they are expecting you and have the equipment ready to treat your dog. Some poisons have an antidote which may need to be collected from another practice, pharmacy or hospital.
Foods
Apple, apricot, peach, pear, plum and cherry (pips and seeds)
Avocado
Onions and garlic (cooked/raw/dehydrated)
Grapes and raisins
Tomatoes
Nutmeg
Caffeine
Xylitol (sweetener found in sugar free products including chewing gum)
Nuts
Chocolate
Raw liver or too much cooked liver
Dairy products
Alcohol
Products/substances
Anti-freeze
Tobacco products (including nicotine patches, gum and chewing tobacco)
Ibruprofen
Paracetamol
Slug pellets
Rat posion
Cannabis
Cocoa mulch
Household chemicals
Poisonous plants
Ivy
Foxglove
Mistletoe
Lily of the valley
Morning Glory
Lupins
Hemlock
Nightshade
Yew
Hyacinth
Oleander
Various fungi
Delphiniums
Poinsettia
Lily
Day Lily
Rhododendron
Asparagus fern
Umbrella plant
Daffodil bulbs
Rhubarb leaves
Hydrangea
Cyclamen
Sweet pea
Azalea
Tulip bulbs
Amarykkis bulb
Wisteria