Foods That Shetland Sheepdogs Should Never Eat

Shetland Sheepdogs, often called Shelties, are wonderful companions, but like all dogs, they have specific dietary needs. Certain foods that are safe for humans can be extremely harmful, even fatal, to your beloved Sheltie. It's crucial for every dog owner, especially those with Shelties, to be well-informed about what to avoid feeding their furry friends. This article will outline the common culprits that should absolutely be kept away from your Shetland Sheepdog.

Human Food Scraps: A Recipe for Disaster

While it might be tempting to share your leftovers with your Sheltie, human food scraps are generally a bad idea. They're often too high in salt, oil, and seasonings, which can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea and even pancreatitis. These foods do not meet the nutritional needs of dogs and can lead to long term health problems.

Dangerous Foods List For Your Sheltie

Here's a more detailed breakdown of foods that are particularly dangerous for your Shetland Sheepdog:

1. Leftovers: As mentioned above, they are high in salt and oil, which can lead to toxicity, diarrhea, and pancreatitis.

2. Excessive Organ Meats: While small amounts can be beneficial, overfeeding organ meats can cause Vitamin A poisoning.

3. Sharp Bones: These can cause internal injuries, such as lacerations in the intestines.

4. Fatty Meats: Can cause blood clots and pancreatitis due to their high fat content.

5. Seafood: Certain seafood are high allergen foods for dogs. Shells can also cause damage if ingested.

6. Raw Eggs: The protein in raw eggs can interfere with the absorption of Vitamin H, leading to deficiencies.

7. Cow's Milk: Most dogs are lactose intolerant and milk can cause digestive upset, but yogurt or lactose-free milk is a good alternative.

8. Excessive Vitamin C: While small amounts are okay, large amounts of citrus fruits like limes, lemons, and oranges can be harmful.

9. Chives: Can irritate the digestive system, cause diarrhea, and affect their sense of smell.

10. Ice Cream: High in sugar and fat, leading to obesity, diarrhea, and dental problems.

11. Candy: High sugar content can cause weight gain, affect calcium absorption, and dental issues.

12. Chocolate: This is a well-known toxin for dogs, and can cause central nervous system damage, heart problems, and even death.

13. Caffeine: Found in drinks and foods, and can lead to heart issues and seizures.

14. Nuts: Difficult to digest and some can even cause shock in dogs.

15. Tea: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause heart problems, damage the central nervous system, and lead to seizures.

16. Mustard: Can irritate the digestive system and impair their sense of smell.

17. Alcoholic Beverages: Highly toxic and can lead to alcohol poisoning.

18. Onions: Can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia.

19. Chili Peppers: Can irritate the digestive tract, causing diarrhea.

20. Raw Meat: Can carry harmful bacteria like salmonella and bacillus, leading to food poisoning if not handled correctly.

21. High Sugar Foods: Can cause dental calculus, periodontitis, endocrine disorders, and hair loss.

22. Salty Foods: Can strain the liver and kidneys, leading to poor coat quality, shedding, and severe tear stains.

23. Xylitol: An artificial sweetener that can cause abnormal insulin release, which can be fatal.

24. Grapes: Highly toxic and can cause kidney failure, potentially leading to death.

25. Star Fruit: High potassium content can lead to kidney failure.

26. Pomegranates: Difficult to digest and can cause constipation.

27. Fruit Pits: These contain cyanide, which is highly toxic and can be deadly.

28. Garlic: Can irritate the digestive system, similar to onions.

29. Ginger: Can cause digestive upset and diarrhea.

30. Avocado: Contains persin, which dogs cannot metabolize, leading to vomiting and death.

31. Cherries: Pits are dangerous to swallow and can lead to heart and lung diseases, even death.

32. Mango: While some dogs tolerate it well, be aware of allergies and only offer small quantities.

33. Beans: Can cause gas and digestive discomfort.

34. Persimmons: Can cause enteritis and intestinal obstruction.

Conclusion

Keeping your Shetland Sheepdog safe and healthy involves being mindful of their diet. Avoid feeding the above mentioned foods and instead, focus on a well-balanced diet formulated specifically for dogs. If you are ever in doubt or suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, it's always best to contact your veterinarian immediately. Being vigilant about your dog's diet will contribute to a happy and long life with your beloved Sheltie.Trusted by:Pet Naming

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