What each dog’s owner needs to know.
Because Dachshunds are curious, lovable and very food driven dogs, they are easy to feed.
If you have a Dachshund, you already know how easily they can persuade you to share a bite of your food. But some human foods that are harmless to a dog are dangerous, even deadly for these cute long-legged companion animals.
A Dachshund owner needs to know what foods to avoid.
The most dangerous foods for dogs are described and why they should never be included in your dog’s diet.
Dachshunds have very sensitive digestive systems. Because they are so small, a small amount of toxic food can have a greater impact than bigger dogs.
Dachshunds also have obesity, diabetes and digestive problems.
Feeding bad foods can result in serious health problems and expensive veterinary care.
Let us look at some foods that shouldn’t be eaten on your Dachshund’s menu.
Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most toxic foods for dogs. It contains substances called theobromine and caffeine which dogs cannot absorb. Even small amounts can cause serious problems. Chocolate poisoning symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, fast heart rate, hyperactivity, tremors, and seizures. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous because they contain higher levels of theobromine.
Grapes and raisins
Most dog owners are shocked to learn that grapes and raisins cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Researchers are still not entirely sure why some dogs react so severely, but the risk is big enough that we should avoid eating these fruits.
Warning signs: vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, increased thirst, and kidney failure.
Even a few grapes can be dangerous for a small Dachshund.
Onions and garlic
Onions, garlic, chives and leeks belong to the allium family and are toxic for dogs. These foods cause damage to red blood cells and can lead to anemia. Symptoms include weakness, pale gums, fatigue, rapid breathing, and loss of appetite. Cooked, raw, powdered and dehydrated forms are all potentially harmful.
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is commonly found in sugar-free gum, sugar-free candy, peanut butter, toothpaste, and baked goods. For Dachshunds, xylitol can be very dangerous. Possible effects: rapid drop in blood sugar, liver damage, seizures, and collapse. Always read ingredient labels carefully before sharing any human food with your dog.
Alcohol
Dogs are very sensitive to alcohol. Small amounts can damage the nervous system and cause serious health problems. Alcohol toxicity: disorientation, vomiting, difficulty breathing, low body temperature, and coma.
Never allow your Dachshund to drink alcoholic beverages or eat alcohol.
Avocado
Avocados have a toxin called persin. Small amounts of avocado flesh may not always cause severe reactions, but the pit, skin and leaves are dangerous. The large pit is also a choking hazard and may cause intestinal blockages. Macadamia nuts are among the most toxic nuts for dogs. Most often symptoms are weakness, tremors, vomiting, fever, and difficulty walking. The symptoms can manifest themselves after a few hours of consumption.
Caffeine
Dachshunds should never be given coffee, tea, energy drinks or caffeine supplements. Because caffeine is an agent for the nervous system, even small quantities lead to dangerous effects: restlessness, elevated heart rate, tremors, hyperactivity, and seizures. Keep caffeinated products out of reach.
Raw dough with yeast
Uncooked bread dough will expand in a dog’s stomach. This expansion can cause severe bloating, stomach pain, and breathing problems. Also, fermenting yeast produces alcohol which adds a second layer of toxicity.
Fatty foods and table scraps
Many owners like to give their Dachshunds leftovers.
Unfortunately, fatty foods such as bacon, sausage, fried foods, pizza, and fast food can lead to obesity and pancreatitis. Dachshunds already have long backs and are prone to spinal problems, so maintaining a healthy weight is essential.
Cooked bones
Cooked bones are not safe for dogs, contrary to popular belief. Cooked bones may splinter and cause choking, mouth injuries, intestinal perforation, and internal bleeding. In order to avoid this, you should use veterinarian-approved dog chews instead.
Excessive salt
Salty snacks such as chips, pretzels, and processed meats can cause dehydration and sodium poisoning. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. A Dachshund’s small body makes excessive sodium particularly dangerous.
Safe alternatives for Dachshunds
Instead of risky human foods, offer healthy dog-friendly treats like carrot sticks, blueberries, apple slices (without seeds), pumpkin puree, green beans, cucumber slices, lean cooked chicken, and dog-safe training treats. These are healthy without putting your dog at risk. What should I do if your Dachshund eats something dangerous? Monitor for signs and symptoms. Contact your veterinarian right away.
Do not attempt any home remedies unless the veterinarian tells you to.
Final thoughts
Dachshunds may be good at begging for food, but not everything humans eat is safe for them.
Chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol, alcohol, and many other common foods are very harmful to the health of dogs.
The best way to protect your Dachshund is through awareness, prevention, and proper nutrition.
By keeping dangerous foods away from your dog and giving healthy food, you can help your Dachshund have a longer life. If in doubt, always consult your veterinarian before you add any new food to your dog’s diet.
