Household Items — Safe for Dogs?

chemical

Antifreeze is extremely toxic to dogs. Ethylene glycol is rapidly absorbed and causes fatal kidney failure within 24-72 hours.

medication

Most antihistamines are not safe for dogs. Only plain diphenhydramine Benadryl under vet guidance is occasionally appropriate — other antihistamines can cause serious harm.

chemical

Batteries are extremely dangerous for dogs. They contain potassium hydroxide or sulfuric acid that causes severe chemical burns when punctured.

cleaning

Household bleach is toxic to dogs. Even diluted bleach causes burns to the mouth, throat, and esophagus.

food-product

Most chewing gum contains xylitol which is extremely toxic to dogs. Even sugar-containing gums cause digestive upset and choking hazard.

chemical

Cooking spray is not acutely toxic to dogs but the propellants and concentrated oils cause digestive upset if consumed directly.

household

Drain cleaners are extremely caustic and immediately life-threatening if ingested. They cause severe chemical burns to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.

chemical

Essential oils are toxic to dogs. They are highly concentrated plant compounds that dogs cannot metabolize safely. Tea tree oil is especially dangerous.

household

Fabric softener is toxic to dogs if ingested. The cationic detergents cause serious digestive damage and neurological symptoms.

chemical

Glow stick liquid is not acutely toxic to dogs but causes intense oral irritation and excessive drooling. Dogs are often attracted to the bright colors.

household

Hand sanitizer is toxic to dogs. It contains isopropyl or ethyl alcohol at high concentrations that cause rapid alcohol poisoning.

first-aid

Medical grade manuka honey is sometimes used topically on minor wounds in dogs under veterinary guidance. Not for internal use.

household

3% hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used by vets to induce vomiting in dogs. However it should only be used under veterinary guidance.

chemical

Mothballs are highly toxic to dogs. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene both of which cause serious organ damage.

garden

Most mulch is not toxic but cocoa mulch contains theobromine the same compound as chocolate and is highly toxic to dogs.

nicotine

Nicotine patches are extremely toxic to dogs. They contain concentrated nicotine that is rapidly absorbed causing severe poisoning.

household

Paint is toxic to dogs depending on type. Lead-based paint is especially dangerous while water-based paints cause digestive upset.

metal

Pennies minted after 1982 are toxic to dogs due to high zinc content. Zinc destroys red blood cells causing hemolytic anemia.

toy

Homemade play dough contains extremely high levels of salt and is toxic to dogs. Commercial Play-Doh also contains high sodium.

chemical

Rat poison is extremely toxic to dogs. Most rodenticides work by preventing blood clotting causing uncontrolled internal bleeding.

chemical

Silica gel packets are not acutely toxic to dogs but can cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The 'Do Not Eat' warning is primarily for humans.

household

Human sunscreen is not safe for dogs. Most contain zinc oxide, PABA, or other compounds toxic when licked.

chemical

Tea tree oil is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts applied to skin can cause serious neurological symptoms and liver damage.

nicotine

Tobacco products are highly toxic to dogs. Nicotine is rapidly absorbed causing severe neurological symptoms and cardiac effects.

food-product

Sugar-free gum containing xylitol is one of the most common causes of dog poisoning. Even one or two pieces can be fatal for small dogs.

household

Any product containing xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs. Xylitol is found in hundreds of products beyond gum including toothpaste, medications, and foods.