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Are you tired of checking online every time you want to give your Maltese a snack to make sure it’s safe? I have done that search for you and got a list together with 11 dangerous foods that you should never give to your Maltese/dog.
As much as we love sharing our favorite treats with our furry friends, not all human foods are safe for our pups. In fact, there are several dangerous foods that you should never offer to your Maltese pals from your own daily diet.
Let’s dive into the kitchen and uncover those dangerous foods that might be hiding in plain sight.
1. Chocolate: The Sweet Danger
Ah, chocolate—the ultimate comfort food for us, but a big no-no for our Maltese buddies. The culprit here is a compound called theobromine. Dogs, including Maltese, can’t metabolize this compound effectively, leading to severe health issues if ingested. If you google online, or ask any dog owner, this is probably the first one that people know. That’s because chocolate is a common “human treat” in most households, especially in the homes with kids. Kids can sometimes drop a chocolate on the floor without noticing and dogs will take a quick advantage of that, making chocolate one of the dangerous foods and of easy access to curious dogs.
From milk chocolate to the darker varieties, all contain theobromine, but the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it becomes. So, it’s best to keep that stash hidden and out of paw’s reach.
2. Grapes and Raisins: Surprising But Harmful
The second item in our list of dangerous foods for dogs are grapes and raisins. I was surprised to learn that these seemingly harmless fruits can wreak havoc on a Maltese’s health. While the exact reason isn’t entirely clear, grapes and raisins have been linked to kidney failure in dogs.
It’s best not to take any chances. Keep those grapevines out of your pup’s reach, and double-check your snack mix for any hidden raisins.
3. Onions and Garlic: More Than Just Seasonings
As a cooking enthusiast, onions and garlic are staples in my kitchen. However, these aromatic veggies contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Even small amounts, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, can pose a threat to your dog/Maltese. So, it’s better to play it safe and avoid sharing dishes seasoned with these ingredients.
4. Xylitol: A Sweetener Gone Sour
Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products like gum, candies, and even some peanut butter brands, is highly toxic to dogs. Even in small quantities, it can cause a sudden release of insulin, resulting in dangerously low blood sugar levels or even liver failure.
Always double-check the labels before sharing any human treats with your Maltese and steer clear of products containing xylitol.
5. Avocados: A Guac Hazard
As much as we love our avocados, they contain a substance called persin that, in large amounts, can be toxic to dogs. While the flesh itself might not cause severe issues, the pit and skin pose choking hazards and can potentially cause gastrointestinal blockages.
So, it’s best to avoid sharing that delicious avocado toast with your Maltese.
6. Macadamia Nuts: Not So Nutty for Dogs
Macadamia nuts might be a delicious snack for us, but for our furry friends, they’re a big no-no. Just a small amount of these nuts can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs, including Maltese.
Steer clear of these nuts and keep your pup safe from potential discomfort.
7. Alcohol: Not for Your Furry Pal
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: alcohol is absolutely off-limits for our Maltese buddies. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, breathing difficulties, and even coma or death.
So, keep those drinks far away from curious snouts.
8. Caffeine: A Jolt of Danger
Much like chocolate, caffeine is another stimulant that dogs should steer clear of. Found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and even some medications, caffeine can cause vomiting, restlessness, heart palpitations, and in severe cases, seizures.
Make sure your Maltese doesn’t get ahold of any caffeinated products.
9. Some Typed of Bones: Not Always a Treat
While bones might seem like a natural chew for dogs, some bones can splinter and cause serious harm to your pup’s digestive system. Cooked bones, especially chicken and fish bones, are particularly hazardous as they can break and cause choking, internal injuries, or blockages.
It’s best to opt for specially designed chew toys or treats that are safe for your Maltese.
10. Dairy Products: Proceed with Caution
While some dogs can tolerate small amounts of dairy, many Maltese dogs can be lactose intolerant. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea and stomach discomfort in sensitive pups.
Moderation is key, and it’s wise to observe how your Maltese reacts to dairy before considering it a regular treat.
11. Salt and Salty Foods: Not Their Cup of Tea
Excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even seizures. Avoid feeding your Maltese salty snacks like chips, pretzels, or foods high in salt content.
Keeping their sodium intake in check will help maintain their well-being.
Avoid all of these dangerous foods to keep your Maltese safe!
Our Maltese pals bring endless joy and companionship into our lives. Keeping them safe from potential dangerous foods is just one way we can show them our love and care.
Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide tailored advice for your specific pup and help keep them healthy and happy for years to come.
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Photo Credit: Free Stock photos by Vecteezy
