Last Updated on August 21, 2025 by Lori Powell
Why Knowing About Toxic Foods for Dogs in Los Angeles Matters
Why Dogs Are More Vulnerable to Certain Human Foods
Dogs process certain human foods very differently from us. Many common ingredients in our kitchens can cause digestive upset, organ failure, or worse in dogs. Their smaller size and different metabolism make them especially sensitive to things we consider safe.
Holiday Temptations and the Risk of Table Scraps
The holidays are full of rich, tempting foods, many of which can be harmful or fatal for dogs. Sneaking a bite under the table might seem harmless, but it could lead to an emergency vet visit.
How Local Awareness Can Prevent Emergencies
In Los Angeles, where outdoor dining and social gatherings are common, pets often come into contact with human foods. Knowing which foods are toxic is critical for protecting your dog during holiday parties, beach picnics, or city walks.
Top Toxic Foods for Dogs in Los Angeles
Chocolate: A Dangerous Holiday Treat
Most pet parents know chocolate is highly toxic to dogs, but it remains one of the most common causes of pet poisoning. Not only is the high sugar content horrible for their digestive system, but chocolate also contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which dogs cannot metabolize properly.
Severity of poisoning depends on the type, amount consumed, and the dog’s size. For example, a single chocolate bar can be fatal to a small dog like a Chihuahua but might only cause mild symptoms in a larger dog like a German Shepherd.
Watch for symptoms such as:
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Vomiting and diarrhea
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Restlessness or hyperactivity
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Muscle tremors or seizures
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Increased heart rate
Call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately if you suspect chocolate ingestion.
Grapes and Raisins: A Hidden Kidney Threat
Though grapes and raisins (and even currants!) may seem harmless, they are highly toxic to dogs and can lead to sudden kidney failure, even in small quantities. Veterinarians don’t quite know exactly what compound in grapes causes the reaction, which is why any amount should be treated as dangerous.
Symptoms may include:
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Vomiting or loss of appetite
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Abdominal tenderness
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Lethargy or weakness
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Increased thirst or urination
This is a true medical emergency. Contact your vet immediately and do not wait for symptoms to appear.
Alcohol and Xylitol: A Deadly Combo
Alcoholic drinks are a big no for dogs, but accidents can happen. Dogs may lick spilled cocktails or wine, and holiday punches often contain sweeteners like Xylitol (also labeled as “birch sugar”), which is highly toxic.
Alcohol can cause:
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Disorientation, restlessness, or drowsiness
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Vomiting and excessive panting
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Tremors or muscle seizures
Your dog will likely be more curious about fruit-based drinks, like ciders or punches. Along with your cocktails, most drinks will also require mixers, which often include Xylitol, which, even in small amounts, can lead to dangerous blood sugar drops or liver failure. If your dog has consumed alcohol or a product with Xylitol, seek veterinary care immediately. If a toy breed like a Brussels Griffon happens to drink a bit of wine that accidentally spilled on the floor, it will be much more dangerous for them than if your Labrador licks up the same amount.
Onions, Garlic, & Chives: Everyday Ingredients with Hidden Dangers
These common cooking ingredients are toxic in all forms: raw, cooked, powdered, or juiced. They damage red blood cells, leading to anemia, and are particularly dangerous to smaller dogs. Raw onion isn’t the only thing that is harmful to your dog. Onion powder, garlic powder, and the flesh & juices within onions can all lead to a medical emergency.
Look for symptoms like:
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Pale gums
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Lethargy or weakness
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Reddish urine
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Loss of appetite
Dispose of garlic and onion scraps carefully and always keep them out of reach while cooking or cleaning up.
Macadamia Nuts: Toxic Even in Small Amounts
These nuts can cause lethargy, vomiting, hyperthermia, and tremors in dogs. Even small amounts can be toxic. According to the ASPCA, they should be avoided entirely.
Cooked Bones: A Choking and Internal Injury Hazard
Cooked bones can splinter easily and pose a serious choking hazard or cause intestinal punctures. The FDA warns pet parents against giving cooked bones of any kind.
Avocado: Persin Risk to Dogs and Other Pets
Contains a substance called persin, which in large amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. It’s especially toxic to birds and some other animals. The Pet Poison Helpline notes the flesh is less dangerous than the pit or peel, but still worth avoiding.
A note about toxic foods for cat parents, too
Most of these foods are also toxic for cats to consume. If you live in a multi-pet household, make sure none of your pets have access to harmful table scraps or leftovers!
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Toxic Food
Step 1: Call Your Vet or the Pet Poison Helpline Immediately
Time is critical. Contact your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 right away.
Know your dog’s breed, weight, what they ate, how much, and when. This info helps professionals assess the risk and recommend next steps.
Step 3: Do Not Induce Vomiting Without Guidance
Some toxins can cause more harm if vomiting is induced incorrectly. Only do this if your vet or poison control instructs you.
Dog Training in Los Angeles Can Help Prevent Food Poisoning
Teach Commands Like “Leave It” and “Stay”
Training your dog to ignore dropped or off-limits food is one of the best forms of prevention. Commands like “leave it” can stop a dog from eating something dangerous before it happens.
Use Positive Reinforcement to Build Impulse Control
Impulse control is key to helping your dog make better choices in tempting situations. At Pawsitive K9 Solutions, we use science-based training that encourages calm, responsive behavior.
How Our Certified Los Angeles Dog Trainers Can Help
Our certified team understands the unique distractions and risks LA pet parents face. We offer personalized training plans to help your dog become safer and more reliable at home and in public.
Keep Your Dog Safe from Toxic Foods All Year Long
From chocolate to grapes to Xylitol, common human foods can be harmful – even deadly – for your dog. With the help of proper training, education, and awareness, you can avoid unnecessary emergencies and enjoy a safer home for your pet.
At Pawsitive K9 Solutions, we teach essential obedience commands like “leave it” and “stay” that can help prevent food-related accidents. Our certified Los Angeles dog trainers use positive reinforcement methods to keep your dog engaged, safe, and responsive in any environment.
Contact us today to schedule a training consultation and take the first step toward a safer, more obedient dog – especially during high-risk holiday seasons.
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