Foods That Labradors Should Never Eat : The Complete Guide

Labradors are known for their loving nature, infinite energy, and of course, large appetites. As someone who has a Labrador, you will want to do everything in your power to ensure your Labrador has a happy and healthy lifespan. Part of caring for a Labrador is watching what they eat. Even though Labradors are more than willing to be big eaters, there are a number of things that they should never eat.

Chocolate: A Sweet but Deadly Treat

One of the most commonly known foodstuffs toxic to canines is chocolate. It contains theobromine, which is highly toxic to dogs. The Labradors are particularly under consideration as they are large and inquisitive animals. Even a small quantity can trigger symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, high heartbeats and sometimes seizures. Dark and baking chocolate is even more harmful due to increased levels of theobromine.

#### 2. **Grapes and Raisins: Small Fruits, Large Problems**

Small as they are, grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The specific substance in grape-based toxicities is still undetermined. Even small figures can surprisingly cause a pet's kidney to fail. Classic symptoms indicative of grape or raisin poisoning are vomiting, lethargy, and anorexia. Therefore, do make it a point to seek veterinary care immediately if your Labrador happens to ingest grapes or raisins.

#### 3. **Onions and Garlic: More Than Just Bad Breath**

Onions, garlic and other allicin containing plants are all toxic to dogs. They contain compounds which cause damage to red blood cells potentially leading anemia. Untreated this may be a life-threatening condition. Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning range from weakness, possible vomiting, and difficulty breathing. These food forms, raw, cooked, powdered, or dehydrated need to be avoided.

#### 4. **Xylitol: The Sweetener That's Not So Sweet**

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is commonly used in many sugar-free gum products, candies, and even in some peanut butter brands. Although safe for human consumption, it can be lethal for dogs. It causes a sudden release of insulin that critically lowers blood sugar levels. Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include but are not limited to vomiting, loss of balance, and seizures. In severe cases, liver failure may occur.

#### 5. **Alcohol: No Sip for Your Pup**

Smallest amount of alcohol in any form can be toxic for dogs; exposure can cause depression, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, breathing issues, coma, and in worse cases, death. So make sure your Labrador can never reach open containers of alcoholic beverages or products that contain alcohol.

#### 6. **Avocado: Not All Greens Are Good**

Avocados contain a toxic component called persin, which can give your dog an episode of vomiting and diarrhea. While the flesh has little toxic effects compared to the pit, skin, and leaves, it's better not to risk this fruit with your Labrador. The large pit is also a choking hazard.

#### 7. **Macadamia Nuts: A Dangerous Snack**

Macadamia nuts are known to be poisonous to dogs and could land a dog in the veterinary clinic. Just a small amount of ingestion will cause effects like weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia (elevated body temperature). What exactly happens to make this nut so toxic is unknown, but the effects are enough to scare you silly.

#### 8. **Caffeine: A Perk You Should Skip**

Dangers to Dogs: Caffeine is poisonous to dogs, similar to chocolate. It is a stimulant for their nervous systems, so it has the potential to cause nervousness or restlessness, increased breathing, heart rate, and muscle tremors. High doses can lead to death; animals showing indications of serious caffeine toxicity should be brought to a veterinarian immediately.

#### 9. **Bones: Not All Are Created Equal**

As much as everyone loves to give the family dog a bone, the sad reality is that cooked bones easily splinter and can lodge in the throat or digestive tract. These can create blockages or tears that will have your poor pet undergoing emergency surgery. Raw bones may not splinter as readily, but should still be given carefully and under close supervision to avoid potential choking.

#### 10. **Fatty and Fried Foods: A Recipe for Pancreatitis**

Labradors possess a tendency toward obesity, and feeding them greasy or fried foods will only help make them obese. In addition, pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas that is detrimental to health, is also caused by an excessively fatty diet. Vomiting, pain in the abdomen, and depression are symptoms of pancreatitis. To keep a Labrador healthy, feed a well-balanced diet and avoid feeding table scraps.

#### 11. **Dairy Products: Tummy Trouble Ahead**

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means that they often have difficulty digesting milk and other dairy products. So, feeding your Labrador milk, cheese, or ice cream can result in stomach upsets, meaning diarrhea or gas. If it's a dairy treat you want to feed the dog, then go for a lactose-free one, or consult with your vet about suitable alternatives.

#### 12. **Raw Dough: A Rising Danger**

Raw dough, especially that containing yeast used for making bread, is unsafe if ingested by a dog. Due to the warm stomach, the risen dough could further rise and potentially lead to bloat and discomfort. Additionally, fermentation can lead to the formation of alcohol, which is harmful to dogs.

#### 13. **Some Fruits: Not Always Healthy**

While many fruits prove safe for dogs, some could be potential hazards. For instance, the pits and seeds of cherries, peaches, and plums contain cyanogenic glycosides that can get converted into toxins. Apples, for the most part, are safe, but avoid seeds and the core, which also contain cyanide compounds. Always research or consult your vet before introducing new fruits into your Labrador's diet.

As a pet parent of a Labrador, you are assigned the work of keeping the diet of your dog safe and nutritious. While Labradors have a ravenous appetite, everything appealing to them is not good for their health. So, knowing what food items are toxic or harmful for Labradors, one can keep them safe from accidental poisoning, keeping them healthy. Please consult your veterinarian if you are unsure about any specific food item. For the sake of your Labrador's health, be cautious so you won't pity him in the end.