Poisoning is one of the most common dangers dogs face, and it can happen inside the home. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the common causes of dog poisoning, how to spot the signs, and the ways you can help. 

What Are the Common Causes of Poisoning in Dogs?

Dogs explore the world with their mouths and noses, meaning many things come across to them as snacks. Unfortunately, many everyday items can be toxic and dangerous for them. Here are the common ones: 

Food Poisoning

Dogs metabolize foods differently from humans. In other words, there are foods toxic to dogs. The foods safe for us might not be the same for them. 

Many cases of dog poisoning start with a dog accidentally eating something off the counter, out of the trash, or even from an owner’s hand. Here are common examples: 

• Chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, two components that dogs cannot break down. Dark and baking chocolates are among the most poisonous ones for dogs. 

• Grapes and Raisins. The exact reason why these fruits are dangerous is still unknown. However, they can result in severe kidney failure. 

• Onions and Garlic. Onions and garlic can be poisonous to dogs, whether they are cooked, served raw, or powdered. These foods contain compounds that destroy a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. 

• Xylitol. Xylitol causes a rapid drop in blood sugar as it triggers the pancreas to release huge amounts of insulin. It’s a common ingredient in sugar-free products. 

• Macadamia Nuts. These nuts are highly toxic and high in fat. When too many macadamia nuts are eaten, dogs can experience muscle tremors and weakness. 

Medication Poisoning

Another common cause of dog poisoning is human medications. Some dogs often chew through bottles or eat any dropped pills. The medicines that help us humans can overwhelm a dog’s organs, even in tiny doses. 

• NSAID. Ibuprofen and other types of NSAIDs can result in severe stomach ulcers and kidney damage. 

• Acetaminophen. A pain reliever that can damage the dog’s liver and affect red blood cells. 

• Antidepressants. These medications, including fluoxetine and sertraline, can result in neurological and cardiovascular effects.

• ADHD Medications. These have stimulants that can also result in issues with the dog’s heart and nervous system. 

Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol is absorbed much faster in dogs compared to humans, making it far more dangerous for them. It affects the dog’s central nervous system, resulting in problems with coordination, body temperature, and the respiratory system. 

• Beer and Spirits. Alcoholic drinks can rapidly make dogs intoxicated. Large amounts can depress breathing and lead to severe issues. 

• Rubbing Alcohol. Isopropanol and ethanol are two common types of rubbing alcohol, both of which can be dangerous for dogs when ingested or absorbed in the skin. 

• Wine. Along with the alcohol present in wine, it’s made with grapes, which is another severe cause of dog poisoning. 

Household Products Poisoning

Many household cleaning agents contain toxic chemicals that are poisonous to dogs. They might be exposed to them by licking spills, chewing containers, or even walking on freshly cleaned floors. 

• Bleach and Cleaning Agents. These chemicals may burn a dog’s mouth, throat, or stomach when ingested. They can also irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. 

• Antifreeze. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, an extremely toxic compound found in cars and related products. Even small amounts can cause kidney damage in dogs. 

• Rodenticides. Rat poison is designed to kill rodents, but it can also cause dog poisoning. Common types include anticoagulant rodenticides, bromethalin, and cholecalciferol rat poison. 

• Pesticides. Many sprays and powders used to kill insects contain chemicals that can also be harmful to dogs. This happens when they chew, ingest, or walk on grass sprayed with pesticides. 

• Essential Oils. These oils are highly poisonous to dogs, whether ingested, inhaled, or touched. 

Plant Poisoning

Plants can also cause a dog to be poisoned. Some plants have toxins that can irritate a dog’s stomach and other internal organs. While dogs may eat grass and be fine, chewing on these toxic plants is a different thing. Here are some of them: 

• Sago Palm. Sago palm has a toxin called cycasin, which can cause severe liver damage. Every part of the sago palm is toxic to dogs, but the seeds contain the highest concentration. 

• Aloe Vera. While the gel can be soothing for the skin, the latex has saponins and anthraquinone glycosides, which are highly poisonous to dogs. 

• Oleander. Oleander has cardiac glycosides that can affect the dog’s heart, gastrointestinal tract, and neurological system.

• Peace Lily. Peace lilies have insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation, pain, and swelling. 

• Azalea. Azaleas can cause dog poisoning because they contain grayanotoxins that affect the heart and nervous system, even in small amounts. 

What Are the Symptoms of Dog Poisoning?

Because of the various causes, a poisoned dog can manifest different symptoms.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

When the toxin is ingested, these are usually the first signs of poisoning in dogs. Their bodies will try to remove the substance, which can take the form of diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive drooling. Additionally, abdominal pain and excessive thirst can also manifest. 

Neurological Symptoms

Toxins that affect the brain or nerves can cause tremors, seizures, or disorientation. These can happen after the dog has ingested the medication, alcohol, or the toxic plant or food. Some dogs may also have difficulty walking and appear to be in a drunken state. 

Respiratory Symptoms

Respiratory systems involve difficulty breathing, fast breathing, or coughing, especially when chemicals are inhaled. Dogs may also pant or wheeze excessively. These are generally caused by household chemicals. 

Cardiac Symptoms

Certain poisons can affect the heart, resulting in irregular heartbeats, a slow heart rate, or complete cardiac arrest. Weakness or collapse can also occur if blood circulation drops.

Behavioral Symptoms

Dogs that have been poisoned can also appear to be lethargic, restless, or even unusually aggressive. Other dogs may hide, pace around the house, or seem confused.