You see it everywhere, people holding an ice cream and their dog is lapping it up with delight, or kids popping a potato chip into their mouth, then one into their pets. But how good or even safe is it for us to feed them this food? In truth, it isn’t that good for us, so how do we know what is safe to give them as a treat? Is it just junk-type foods that are off limits or can we give them healthy food anytime?

While most of us know that chocolate is definitely a no-no to dogs,. A chemical called Theobromine (a chemical related to caffeine that can cause abnormal heart rate, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.) is what causes the danger.

Here is a list of foods that you should never feed Fido:

1. Grapes, raisins and currants can be dangerous and even the smallest amount can cause severe kidney failure in both cats and dogs.

2. Raw food creates a risk for salmonella and E. coli bacteria.

3. Onions, chives and garlic can cause anemia in cats and dogs and are poisonous.

4. Alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine and spirits, have the same consequence on pets as they do on us.

5. Yeast dough can expand inside a pet’s stomach, and cause severe pain. If it ferments it could cause alcohol poisoning.

6. Gum, breath mints and toothpaste that contain xylitol (a sugar substitute) cause dogs to release excess insulin, resulting in low blood sugar even seizures.

7. Animal fat can induce pancreatitis.

8. Coffee, tea, pop and other foods and drinks that contain caffeine increase heart rate and anxiety.

9. Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting and tremors in dogs.

10. Bones are actually better left off your pet’s menu as they can cause choking or splinter and cause lacerations in the digestive tract.

11. Apple Seeds are toxic to a dog as they contain a natural chemical that releases cyanide when digested.

12. Avocados are toxic and contain Persin, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart congestion.

13. Baby food - make sure it doesn't contain any onion powder.

14. Cat food contains proteins and fats that are targeted at the diet of a cat, not a dog.

15. Corn on the cob is a sure way to get your dog's intestine blocked. The corn is digested, but the cob gets lodged in the small intestine, and if it's not removed surgically, can prove fatal to your dog.

16. Fish such as salmon and trout contain a parasite that while not harmful to humans, even when fully cooked, can do a number on your dog. Vitamin B (Thiamine) deficiency can result from the regular consumption of raw fish; causing loss of appetite will be common, followed by seizures, and in rare instances, death.

17. Hops can be toxic to your dog and can cause panting, an increased heart rate, fever, seizures, and even death.

18. Liver contains quite a bit of Vitamin A which can adversely affect your dog’s muscles and bones.

19. Macadamia nuts contain a toxin that can result in weakness, panting, swollen limbs, and tremors as well as possible damage to your dog's digestive, nervous, and muscle systems.

20. Marijuana can adversely affect your dog’s nervous system and heart rate, and induce vomiting.

21. Milk and dairy products can cause malodorous farts and diarrhea. Dogs are lactose intolerant and don't have enough of the lactase enzyme to properly digest dairy foods.

22. Mushrooms should be left alone and never given to your canine.

23. Persimmons, peaches, and plums can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis, always watch your dog doesn’t eat the pits.

24. Potato, rhubarb, and tomato leaves contain oxalates, which can adversely affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems.

25. Raw eggs contain the Avidin enzyme, which inhibits the absorption of vitamin B which your dog uses to keep a healthy coat and skin.

26. Salt can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels, dehydration and potentially diarrhea.

27. Sugar (just like in humans) can lead to dental issues, obesity, and even diabetes.

28. Tobacco is a major toxic hazard for humans, never mind dogs. The effects nicotine has on dogs are far worse than on humans and can damage their digestive and nervous systems, increase their heart rate, make them pass out, and ultimately result in death.

Please always do your research and consult with your veterinarian before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested on this page. Only your vet can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or to diagnose your pets particular medical issue.