Poisoning in a dog is a serious condition and can be potentially fatal. It can be caused by the ingestion of toxic substances or foods that are dangerous to dogs. As a dog owner, it is important to be aware of the dangers that lurk in our daily lives – and avoid poisoning. If you suspect that your dog has ingested something toxic or is showing signs of poisoning, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Read more to learn about the most common symptoms of poisoning in dogs and some of the most common causes.
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Symptoms of poisoning in dogs
If your dog has ingested something toxic and become ill, the symptoms can vary depending on how much of the toxic substance was ingested. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, restless behavior, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing – and in severe cases, unconsciousness or convulsions. Symptoms usually appear between 4 and 24 hours after ingestion.
What is poisonous to dogs?
It can be difficult to know what is causing poisoning in dogs. Some substances may seem obvious to be toxic – such as rat poison and glycol (antifreeze). However, there are a number of other toxic substances and foods that are safe for us humans, but dangerous for our four-legged friends. For example, toxins are found in various plants, medicines, foods and household products.
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, avocado, alcohol, and xylitol (a sweetener found in sugar-free foods) can be dangerous for dogs.
If your dog has ingested any of these substances, it is important to contact your nearest veterinarian as soon as possible.
Sjokolade
Dogs cannot tolerate chocolate and react to the substance theobromine. It doesn't take large amounts for the nervous system to be activated. Dark chocolate is the worst – and just a few bites are enough to cause symptoms of illness in the dog. Typical symptoms of chocolate poisoning are increased body temperature, increased heart rate and arrhythmia, cramps, staggering, vomiting and diarrhea. Light chocolate can also be dangerous in larger quantities.
Raisins and grapes
Raisins and grapes can be harmful to a dog's kidneys – and it depends on the individual how much it takes before the dog is poisoned. For some, even one raisin can be enough to cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and lethargy.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener often found in sugar-free gum and candy, among other things. The substance can be highly toxic even in small amounts and can be fatal if poisoning is not detected early enough. Symptoms come on quickly – about an hour after ingestion.
Rat poison
It is perhaps not surprising that rat poison is dangerous for dogs – considering that the substance is used to kill rats. Symptoms of poisoning include the dog becoming lethargic, lethargic, having a poor general condition, nosebleeds, bloody diarrhea or bloody vomiting. These usually only appear after a few days.
Glycol (antifreeze)
Glycol is one of the most dangerous things a dog can ingest and is found in windshield washer fluid, coolant and brake fluid, among other things. Even a small amount can be fatal – and the symptoms of poisoning can vary depending on the severity. It is absorbed quickly, and after only 3 hours the blood will have a maximum concentration. The first signs of glycol poisoning often appear in the form of lethargy, uncoordinated walking and vomiting. Sometimes the animal can show signs of improvement after a while – but don't be fooled! If you suspect that your dog has ingested antifreeze, you must contact a veterinarian immediately.
Read more about glycol poisoning here!
Medicines
There are also various medicines for humans that dogs cannot tolerate. For example, common painkillers such as paracetamol can be toxic to your dog. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you do not leave painkillers on the counter or drop them on the floor, etc. The symptoms usually appear after a few days.
Onion
Although onions are a tasty vegetable for humans, all types of onions can be toxic to dogs. They contain toxins that damage red blood cells and can cause symptoms such as bloody urine, white mucous membranes, or cause the dog to not eat. This applies to both raw and cooked onions.
Ball dough
Dumpling dough is perhaps something that is associated with cozy moments and comfort – but if your dog ingests a piece of unguarded dumpling dough, it can be anything but pleasant. The dough can ferment in the stomach and thus cause symptoms reminiscent of intoxication. It does not necessarily have to be life-threatening – but can be very unpleasant for the dog.
Toxins in nature (mushrooms, plants and algae)
It is not only chemically produced products and foods that can be toxic to your furry friend. Potential dangers can also be found in nature. Different types of mushrooms can – just like for us humans – be toxic. The symptoms of poisoning and their severity will vary depending on the amount and type of mushroom ingested.
Certain plants and algae – such as yew and blue-green algae – can also be very toxic. It is therefore important that you as the owner keep a close eye on your dog when you are out for a walk. At Felleskatalogen you will find an updated list of poisonous plants so you can keep track of nature's threats.
Read more about blue-green algae and poisoning here!
Prevention of poisoning in dogs
The most important thing you can do to prevent poisoning in Fido is, of course, to make sure that toxic products, foods, plants and household products are out of your dog's reach. That said, accidents do happen despite all precautions being taken. That's why it's important that you are always observant of any symptoms and behavioral changes in your furry family member. Always have contact information for your nearest veterinary clinic available. If you are in the Vestfold area, we always prioritize emergency cases in our clinic. We also have our own emergency service on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
